New Homeowner Questions And Answers About Their Septic Tanks
Posted on: 18 June 2015
So, this is your first time owning a house with a septic tank. Although they are different from sewer systems, septic tanks are relatively straightforward and require little maintenance most of the time. These frequently asked questions and answers can help you get started and can serve as a guideline for keeping your septic tank in proper working condition.
Q: What kind of maintenance does my septic system require?
A: Your septic tank needs to be drained of solids periodically in a process usually referred to as "septic tank pumping." If the solids aren't emptied from the tank on a regular basis, they could fill the tank, invade the drain field, cause an overflow of waste and clog the system.
Q: How will I know when it's time to get the solids pumped from my septic system?
A: At first, there won't be any signs that it's time to get the septic system pumped. Eventually, you will start to notice the following symptoms:
- Presence of pooling water
- Foul smells in your yard
- Sewage backing up into your house
- Extra green grass over the drain field
These are all signs that the solids are clogging the drain field and causing the liquid to rise up rather than filter down. If it gets to this point, you've actually waited too long to get your septic system pumped, and you could need septic system repair.
The best time to get your septic system pumped is before it reaches this point. You can find out when it's time to get your system pumped by having an inspection from a septic system pumping company, like Soares Sanitation Pumping Inc. The representative will take a look at your tank, ask you some questions about how much waste water your home produces, and will tell you approximately when you should have your tank pumped.
Q: The previous owners of the home told me how often they had their septic tank pumped. Can I use this same schedule?
A: The frequency with which your septic tank will need pumping will depend in part on the habits of your household. The number of people living in your house, how often you do laundry, how often you flush your toilets, how frequently you shower and how many times a day you run the dishwasher will all have an influence on the rate that your septic tank needs to be pumped. You may choose to use the previous owner's septic pumping schedule as a guideline for creating your own pumping schedule, but you should still have an inspection and consultation with a professional. For more information, speak with a septic tank pumping and repair service in your area.
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