 | Braden Peak is the manager of Roto-Rooter Sewer, Drain, Septic and Grease Trap Service in Pittsburg, KS. A Girard native and a graduate of Pittsburg State University, he is a licensed sewer contractor and has been with the company since 2002. He can be reached at 620-231-5630 or by emailing kpp_rotorooter@yahoo.com. You can also become a fan of Roto-Rooter of Pittsburg on Facebook.
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Plumbing
2012-06-01 11:28:50
Debunking myths of septic system care
A: As I stated last month, I understand these wastewater topics aren’t the most appetizing and can even be humorous to some, but they are real and can be vital to a smoothly running plumbing system. Since a septic system utilizes a natural process to digest and function, in one way it is similar to the digestive system in your body. Continuous neglect and harmful products introduced in our system will cause our body to eventually fail. The same holds true for septic systems. Here are some myths, do’s, and don’ts concerning maintaining your system:
MYTH
•Septic tanks don’t need to be pumped if they are working properly. Actually it is very important to have your system periodically inspected and your tank pumped. The length of time between pumps is based on the number of occupants and the size of the tank. In most cases the tank should be pumped at least every three to five years and more often in certain situations. Septic tanks need cleaned out to avoid excessive sludge and scum buildup which can eventually wash out into the leach field and ruin it. Hair, lint, and fiber from bathing and clothes washing also need to be periodically removed from the tank to prevent leach field clogs.
•If I use a flushable septic system additive, I shouldn’t have to pump my tank as often or possibly ever.According to some scientists, additives such as those advertised on TV or even yeast are not as helpful as you might think. The tank already contains enough bacteria from waste to function properly (in most cases) provided the system is used and not abused. A regular pumping schedule and inspection is the best maintenance you can do. Keep in mind some states have banned the sale of additives. Additives are a great debate in the septic hauler industry.
•Throwing a dead animal in the tank will help the decomposition process of the septic system.
There is no need to throw anything in the septic tank! See the myth above.
THINGS YOU SHOULD DO
•Locate your septic tank and leach field. This is very important in order to establish a regular system maintenance schedule. This is also important should you plan any construction such as decks, home additions, outbuildings, or driveways. Avoid building or driving over the septic system. If you are not sure where to find your system, contact a septic hauler professional.
•Conserve water as much as possible. Make sure you don’t have any leaking toilets or faucets. Excessive water can saturate or even flood a septic system. Consider switching to low consumption fixtures and appliances. Not only will you save on your water bill but your septic system will perform better.
•Divert storm water runoff away from the leach field. Heavy rainfall can saturate the ground and cause problems with septic systems.
•Use thin ply toilet paper labeled “Septic System Safe” on the packaging. Thick, quilted paper remains dense in the tank and tends to clump together.
•If you are planning to buy a house, call a septic professional for an inspection for the entire septic system. These types of inspections are beneficial to pinpoint potential problems and code violations.
THINGS YOU SHOULDN’T DO:
•Do not flush anything other than what will decompose. Avoid flushing sanitary napkins, wet wipes, other personal hygiene products, cigarette butts, or coffee grounds. Also avoid using large quantities of household cleaners and chemicals as these will destroy the bacteria in the tank.
•Do not plant trees or shrubs near the septic tank or leach field. The roots can invade the system and cause blockages and damage.
•If you must use a garbage disposal, use it very sparingly. Fats and food particles tend to float through the tank and straight out to the leach field. Over time, heavy use can clog the leach field.
•Most importantly, it is best to not wait until you have a backup to perform maintenance on your tank. Sometimes the system can be neglected long enough to cause a costly leach field failure. Consult a septic professional to perform routine maintenance and inspections to avoid costly and untimely system failures.
Septic systems are a safe and effective way to dispose of the wastewater as long as they are installed correctly and maintained on a regular basis. Common sense and a little care go a long way to ensure your system will function for years to come. Another onsite system that is somewhat popular in this area is a sewage lagoon, but that will be a topic for another day.
