Keeping your septic tank clean and well-maintained can help reduce the need for costly repairs. The bacteria in the tank is constantly working to eliminate solid waste. It is a good idea to have it cleaned at least every three years to make sure it is functioning properly. It is best to have it checked by a professional contractor at the very least once a month.
There are many ways you can help your septic system stay clean. You should use less water than you normally do. The more water in a tank, the more difficult it becomes for wastes to be reduced. You can reduce water use by using water-efficient toilets, showerheads, and washing machines. You can also save water by not running your faucet while you brush or wash dishes.
The septic tank separates wastewater from your home into three layers: solid waste, liquid waste (scum), oil and grease. The solids settle at the bottom of the tank while the oils and grease rise up to the top. Bacteria in the septic tank break down some of the waste and distribute it to the leach field. A pump is required to remove the sludge from the tank’s bottom.
Depending on the size of your home, you should have a septic tank that will handle the amount of water you use. American adults consume between 80 to 100 gallons of drinking water each day. This translates to approximately 90 gallons of solid waste every year. A septic tank’s standard performance is 50 percent less solids.
A chemical additive in your septic tank will not improve its function. They could actually cause more harm than good. For example, sodium hydroxide could cause more harm than good.
Septic tanks don’t require much maintenance. They must be pumped on a regular basis to remove any solid waste that is not allowed to flow into the leach field. Most septic tanks do not require pumping unless there are significant amounts of sludge. However, it is best that you get it checked as soon as possible if there is a problem.
The septic company will pump your septic tank and also do a short inspection of the tank. These inspections can identify potential problems. A septic inspection can be done once or several times during a property purchase. These inspections can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, and are often included in the repair cost.
The size and number of people living in your house will affect how often you pump your septic tanks. The EPA recommends that you pump your tank every three to five year. However, depending on your particular situation, you may need to pump more often than this. A single person may only need to pump their 1,000-gallon tank every nine to twelve years, while a family of five may need to pump every two to three.
You should consider putting a septic system on the site prior to laying the foundation for a new house. Contractors won’t have to drive over the tank site as they build the house. This could cause delays in the construction process. It will stop people from driving over the septic tank if it is located in an area that supplies are delivered. Before you can get it in place, you might have to wait until all the construction is done.
It can be difficult for you to estimate the cost of a cleaning your septic tank. Calling three local companies is the best way of estimating the cost. The companies should be able to give you a detailed cost breakdown in writing. This way you won’t have make guesswork about the cost of your project. Although they are necessary, they are also very expensive.