How To Care for A Septic System
Both residential and commercial septic systems require consistent care to function properly. In the case of a commercial septic system, it may have to be serviced more frequently due to the volume of waste that is produced. Both function on the same principle, so with that thought in mind, let’s find out how to care for a septic system.
What Is A Septic System
The concept of a septic system is straightforward. Simply put, it’s an onsite sewage facility that handles waste from your home or business. The septic system, although uncomplicated, has been successfully used for over one hundred and sixty-five years.
Understanding The Septic Tank
Your septic tank is a subterranean, tightly sealed container made from concrete but, in certain circumstances, could be made from fiberglass or high-density plastic. A septic tank gets the flow of waste from a house, apartment, or office. A strange dance takes place inside the septic tank; heavier particles fall to the bottom and create toxic mud. The lighter particles, like fats, grease, and oil, will ascend to the top of the tank, rising above the heavier particles. Pressure forces the middle layer of water out of your septic tank into what is known as a drain field.
The Lonely Job Of A Drain Field
A drain field is made up of a series of vented pipes extending through gravel-filled trenches underground away from the septic tank. The treated wastewater from the septic tank will drain through the vented pipes into a solitary field or yard. Soil takes care of the rest of the job by removing bacteria and viruses before wastewater mixes with the groundwater from which wells draw.
Maintaining Your Septic System
Now that you better understand a septic system, here are a few tips on maintaining it.
Regularly Service Your Septic System Serviced
By having a qualified septic service your septic system routinely, you reduce the odds of problems such as clogged toilets and backed-up sinks and bathtubs. If your septic system manages a considerable volume of wastewater, you must have the septic tank pumped more than once every three years. Six months work best for high-traffic businesses such as restaurants, malls, and hotels.
Know What You’re Flushing
Your toilets aren’t garbage cans. Items that may appear flushable that aren’t are things such as diapers, baby wipes, and paper towels. Make sure your family or employees know that fact, or you may end up asking if your septic service has a frequent customer discount.
Use Toilets That Require Less Water
Flushing toilets can account for a large portion of water usage both in homes and businesses. Installing toilets that can restrict water usage will keep your septic system from being overwhelmed.
Never Flush Oil or Grease In the Septic System
The first question most would have is why? Why would anyone flush oil or grease into their septic system? The answer is because it has happened, and if you have a child who has an investigative nature or a dense employee, then it could happen to you. Make sure they know grease and oil can solidify inside your pipes and drain field, which could lead to expensive repairs.
Face Downspouts Away from Your Septic System
A deluge of rainwater from your home or business’s downspouts over a septic tank or drain field can waterlog both. Oversaturation may prevent wastewater processing and cause a backup in your house or office.
Lakeland Septic Can Care for Your Septic System
If you live in the Lakeland, Plant City, or Polk County areas, contact us to ensure your home or business septic system stays in good working order. Routine maintenance is the key to the longevity of your septic system. Don’t wait until you have a messy backup in your home or office; contact us today.
