Remember how plumbing experts always remind you not to pour grease down the sink drain? Remember how you are always advised not to flush foreign objects down the toilet? Well, those reminders are given for a reason. Substances like grease and other non-biodegradable materials that pass through your drainage lines and go straight into your septic system, accumulate over time. Once they build up, they will eventually clog your pipes or worse, even your septic tank. When that happens, you’ll surely be in for a lot of trouble. Now don’t you panic because during such an emergency, plumbers like us can absolutely help you. Just to give you some ideas about this problem, read on and learn valuable information.
Why Do Septic Systems Fail?
A septic tank is a durable container made from fiberglass, plastic or concrete material. The tank won’t burst up so easily but it will eventually overflow when it’s not pumped regularly. Another reason why your septic system fails is when bacteria and enzymes in the tank are killed by harsh chemical drain cleaners. When they’re eradicated, there won’t be any agent left to decompose the waste materials in the tank.
Aside from that, another factor that results to septic failure is when the aerators and filters get damaged due to improper pumping. These situations make the sludge escape from the tank, therefore resulting to the overflow of the drainfield. That’s how sewage backs up in your plumbing system and contaminates your clean water supply.
How Will You Know That There’s A Problem With Your Tank?
There are several symptoms you should watch out for. These include:
1. Pools of water or wetness in the area where the septic tank is installed
2. Toilet and other fixture backups
3. Slow drains in your household or property
4. Foul odor escaping from the system and evident in the areas surrounding the tank
5. Loud and strange noises coming from your drainage pipes
What Can You Do To Prevent Problems With Your Septic System?
As experts say, “Prevention is better than cure.” Follow these tips to avoid issues with your drainage:
1. Have your tank pumped out regularly. Consult your friendly plumber to find out how often it should be cleaned out.
2. Avoid dumping non-biodegradable waste materials, foreign objects and grease in your drains. And we’re not only referring to your kitchen or bathroom sink drain but also your toilet. Never treat it as if it’s a trash can.
3. Lessen your water consumption. The more you use water, the more sewage goes into your tank. Only use as much water as necessary and make sure that it suits the size of your tank.
4. Clear the area where the tank is installed. There should be no trees planted near it because roots can actually intrude drainpipes; pass through it and damage the septic pumps, filters and drainfield.
5. Never park vehicles over or near the septic tank area.
We hope that you learned a lot of valuable information about septic repair and maintenance. Should you need assistance now, just find the most reliable Key Biscayne FL plumbing professionals. Douglas Orr Plumbing delivers exceptional yet affordable plumbing services in Key Biscayne FL including septic tank and grease trap installation, sewer cleaning, sewer jetter cleaning, leak detection and many more! Call us at (305) 240-6731!
Learn how easy it is to repair leaking pipes at home! Watch our video to get tried and tested tips!