How To Inspect Septic Tank Level? (Solution)

How often should I Have my septic tank inspected?

The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often, generally once a year.

How do you tell if your septic tank is full?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.

You Hear Gurgling Water.
You Have A Sewage Backup.
How often should you empty your septic tank?

How high should the level be in a septic tank?

On average, the liquid should be approximately 12 inches from the top of the tank. If the level goes higher than the outlet pipe, then it means the drain field is blocked and immediate action must be taken.

How do you inspect a drain field?

Walk over the drain field and make a note of any place you detect sewer odors or feel squishy ground. Both are signs of a leak and reasons to call a septic pro. You should see one or more pipes sticking vertically out of the ground; these are risers that were installed so you can check the drain system.

Can I shower if my septic tank is full?

Only the water would get out into the leach field in a proper system unless you run too much water too fast. The thing to do is to run your shower water outside into it’s own drain area, but it may not be allowed where you are. Used to be called gray water system.

How often should a septic tank be pumped?

Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.

How do you know if your septic system is failing?

The first signs of a failing septic system may include slow draining toilets and sinks, gurgling noises within the plumbing, sewage odors inside, continuing drainage backups, or bacteria in the well water. The area of the strongest odor will point to the location of the failure in the septic system.

Can a septic tank never be pumped?

What Are the Consequences of Not Pumping Your Tank? If the tank is not pumped, the solids will build up in the tank and the holding capacity of the tank will be diminished. Eventually, the solids will reach the pipe that feeds into the drain field, causing a clog. Waste water backing up into the house.

How long can a septic tank go without being pumped?

You can wait up to 10 years to drain your tank provided that you live alone and do not use the septic system often. You may feel like you can pump your septic tank waste less frequently to save money, but it’ll be difficult for you to know if the tank is working properly.

Does poop float in septic tank?

The American diet is often high in fats (which cause feces to float in a septic tank), or high in iron-rich meat (which blackens your stool and causes it to sink like torpedo). Neither of these is good for your septic tank, but you can change that by changing your lifestyle and eating habits.

Can heavy rain cause septic problems?

It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.

Why is my septic tank filling up so fast?

If your tank seems to be filling up much more quickly, it could indicate a problem with one of its components, or it could be a sign that your tank is taking on more liquids than it can handle. Call a local professional if your tank is needing more septic pumping than usual.

How do you know if you have a leach field?

Drainfield Replacement: Signs That Indicate a Leach Field Problem

Outside sewage odors, specifically those near the septic tank and drainfield.
Standing water or wet spots above the septic tank or drainfield.
Slow draining household drains such as sinks and tubs.

Sluggish or slow flushing toilets.

Inspecting Your Septic Tank

Version that can be printed Septic tanks are mostly comprised of settling chambers. They provide enough time for particles and scum to separate from wastewater so that clean liquid may be properly discharged to a drainfield without contamination. Increasing the thickness of thescum and sludge layers over time results in less space and time for wastewater to settle before it is discharged to the drainfield. In the tank, one gallon of water is pumped out into the drainfield for every gallon that enters.

Septic tanks should be inspected for accumulation every one to three years until you can establish a regular pumping plan for your system.

The frequency with which particles are removed from the tank is determined by the size of the tank, the number of persons in the household, and the amount and kind of solids entering the tank.

The “stick test” process will walk you through the steps of assessing the quantity of scum and sludge in the tank, establishing the tank’s functional capacity, and determining whether or not the tank requires pumping.

What You Need to Do the Stick Test

One 90-degree elbow*

Two SxMPT threaded adapters*
One coupler*
Two feet of white rag or old gym sock

String or duct tape
A pencil or waterproof marker
A disinfecting solution made of 1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water in a bucket

A plastic bag for storing the towel, rag/sock, and gloves*. All PVC materials are 1/2-inch Schedule 40 PVC plastic
No other PVC materials are used.

The slime stick to the right measures 6 feet in length and has a 6-inch leg. The sludge stick is made up of two 5-foot portions that have been fastened together. Scum and sludge sticks can be any length up to 10 feet in length. (NOTE: To learn how to make the scum and sludge sticks, check Step 2 – Measuring the Scum Level andStep 3 – Measuring the Sludge Level in the following sections: Continue to Step 1 – Locate the Tanks. Additionally, see: Step 2 – Determining the Scum Concentration Step 3 – Determining the Sludge Concentration Check the baffles in step four.

Septic System Inspections

Nick Gromicko, CMI®, and Kenton Shepard wrote this article. A septic system is a system that collects, processes, and disposes of waste water and solids that are generated by a building’s plumbing system. When the solids are partially broken down into sludge, they are separated from the liquid effluent (water) and scum in a septic tank (fat, oil and grease). Effluent is discharged from the tank on a regular basis into a drainfield, where it is naturally filtered by microorganisms and re-enters the groundwater supply.

The septic system should be tested at least once a year, and it should be done immediately before putting the house on the market for sale.

Prospective home buyers who have not recently had their septic system checked should insist on having the system checked before they acquire the property, since it is in their best interests.

When it comes time to examine or pump the tank, this is typically not a problem. If a homeowner does not know where his or her septic tank is, inspectors can utilize the following tips to help them identify it:

The placement of the tank should be depicted on a “as-built” design of the home. These drawings are commonly held at municipal health and zoning offices. It is possible that older systems do not have such a record. It is possible to get in touch with the prior owner
Modern tanks are equipped with risers that protrude clearly above the ground surface. It is possible to probe a suspicious location using a thin metal rod that has been placed into the soil. It is critical to do this carefully and only on soft, damp soil in order to prevent harming the tank and its accompanying pipelines. Another option is to use a shovel, although this will need a little more effort. If a sufficient number of tank components are made of metal, a metal detector can be utilized. A tiny radio transmitter may be flushed down the toilet and followed with a receiver
The greenest grass in a yard is generally immediately over the sewage tank. Snow melts more quickly above the tank than it does in the rest of the yard. While they are not failsafe location methods, they have been shown to be beneficial

What kinds of things may InterNACHI inspectors be looking for?

Find out when the tank was last pumped by looking at the date on the tank. The sludge level should ultimately indicate if a tank has to be pumped, although having a record of past pumping dates might be useful as a reference. Using a “sludge judge” or a similar instrument, determine the amount of sludge present. It is normal for sludge to collect on the tank bottom, but it should not take up more than one-third of the tank’s total capacity or climb to the level of the baffles. The septic tank and drainfield should be located far away from wells and streams, for obvious reasons. Make certain that the system is large enough to accommodate the household it serves. A 1,200-gallon tank is normally required for a four-bedroom house, for example. The number of people that live in the house determines the size of the tank that is necessary. The tank’s capacity in gallons may be computed based on the size of the tank. For rectangular tanks, the capacity in gallons is equal to the product of the length, breadth, and depth in feet multiplied by 7.5. For circular tanks, the capacity in gallons is calculated as 3.14 times the radius squared x the depth in feet multiplied by 7.5. Check the ground surface for any liquid waste that has found its way to the surface. This is an unclean state that signals that the system is overburdened and needs to be repaired. In order to prevent wastewater contamination of groundwater and groundwater from flowing into the tank and causing it to overfill, make certain that it is waterproof. The presence of a riser lid should be checked for cracks and the integrity of the lid should be checked as well. Check to see that the baffles are securely attached to the tank’s inlet and exit pipes. It is recommended that each drain line receives the same quantity of wastewater. By opening the distribution box, you will be able to see what they are made of. If the box becomes tipped or blocked, it will distribute effluent in an excessively large amount, and it may even flood areas of the drainfield.

In a septic tank, baffles are components that restrict wastewater entry to a sufficient degree to guarantee that particles are distilled and that solids (as well as scum) are not discharged into the drainfield. It is via this process that they are able to protect the soil’s absorptive quality and hence extend the life of the entire system. They are often constructed of the same materials as the septic tank, which might be fiberglass, steel, or concrete in construction. Inspectors should look for the following things in baffles:

The baffle is covered in solids. This should be reported as soon as possible because it implies overflow. There is evidence of prior overflow due to chemical and water erosion. Ideally, the sewage level should be several inches below the baffle top of the drain. A lower level implies leakage, whereas a greater level indicates obstruction.

Inspectors should be familiar with the following facts so that they may advise their clients about the various ways in which they might cause harm to their septic system:

The only thing that can be flushed down the toilet is bath tissue. Tampons, paper towels, cigarette butts, and diapers should all be disposed of in the garbage. In order to prevent microorganisms in the septic system from being damaged by household chemicals such as gasoline, paint, medicine, antifreeze, or pesticides from being flushed, they should never be put down the toilet or down the sink. In little volumes, detergents and bleach can make their way into the plumbing system. There should be no driving on or near the drainfield unless absolutely necessary. Their weight might cause damage to subsurface plumbing without them realizing it. There should be no other vegetation grown over the septic tank and drainfield. Roots from trees and huge bushes can create harm that is not visible. People are not permitted to excavate or construct structures on top of a drainfield. Ensure that any water drainage from rains, sump pumps, or any other source of surface water is routed away from the drainfield. An over-saturated drainfield can cause the water treatment process to be slowed down and plumbing fittings to get clogged. Fixing leaking faucets and toilets as soon as they occur is a simple method to extend the life of a septic system and avoid having to pay for an expensive replacement. Any waste of water in the home should be avoided at all costs. Taking shorter showers and avoiding using the garbage disposal are two examples of strategies to conserve water.

It is not recommended that inspectors enter the septic tank to search for cracks. Tank interiors are extremely filthy, and entering should be avoided at all costs. The fracture will most likely be located at the level of the effluent, which will have drained from the tank via the crack if one is there. An effluent level that is much lower than the level of the tank outflow is a clear indicator of the presence of a fracture. A tank that has flaws that enable sewage to escape into the surrounding soil is effectively a cesspool and should be removed as soon as possible
If the water comes from the tank, it indicates that the septic system is overburdened and has to be repaired. Sometimes, inspectors will use a dye that is flushed down the toilet to confirm that the water is coming from the residence and not from somewhere else. While this metric might be beneficial, it is not an accepted approach to verify septic system performance. A malfunctioning septic system will be confirmed if dye from the flushed dye shows in the puddle
However, a working septic system is not guaranteed if dye does not appear. It may take many days for the dye to develop, and it may be too diluted to see properly

It is outside the scope of a standard house inspection to evaluate a septic system, and this needs specialized skills. Laws differ from one jurisdiction to the next, and inspectors should be well-versed in them before providing this job. They should disclaim all responsibility for any component of the septic system examination that they did not do

Septic systems are meant to manage hazardous waste, and they may pose major health risks to both residents and inspectors if they are not properly maintained. Precautions include the following, in no particular order:

Solid waste should be removed from septic tanks by a professional septic tank pumping service, not by an inspector. No one else should be allowed to enter a tank unless they are a licensed and properly equipped professional. Noxious gasses such as methane can induce asphyxiation and death in a matter of minutes. When a septic tank begins to exhibit indications of fragility, proceed with extreme caution! Collapse has the potential to be deadly. Keep an eye out for tanks with rusted metal, improvised lids, or anything else that seems to be in unsafe condition.

In conclusion, septic system inspections should be conducted on a yearly basis to verify that the system is operating properly. The septic tank is the most expensive household fixture, and it will have a much shorter lifespan if it is not properly cared for and maintained.

How to Inspect Your Septic Tank – Septic Maxx

If you give your septic system the attention and care it deserves, it will survive a long time. It will endure for many years if you pump as regularly as you need to for the size of your tank, utilize it properly, and do not let anything that shouldn’t be in it to enter. Steel septic tanks corrode with time, generally after 15-20 years of service in most climates. Concrete septic tanks have a lifespan ranging from 40 years to nearly indefinitely. If you want to see your septic system live to a ripe old age and not have to worry about replacing it, it is in your best interests to do periodic septic maintenance.

Gather Materials

It is necessary to have the correct equipment in order to assess the state of your septic tank and determine whether it is necessary to have it pumped out. Aside from wearing loose-fitting clothes and rubber gloves and shoes, you’ll need a specific gadget known as a Sludge Judge to quantify the quantities of scum and sludge that are present in your tank. This instrument is basically a transparent plastic pipe that has been marked at one-foot intervals and divided into three pieces, each of which is five feet in length.

Sludge, effluent, and scum are the three types of waste that accumulate in a septic tank.

Scum is formed when fats, oils, cooking grease, and other lighter trash float to the surface of the water. The liquid effluent makes up the middle layer. To check your tank, you must first assess how much sludge and scum is present within in order to evaluate whether or not it needs to be pumped.

Inspect the Area Around Your Septic Tank

Checking the ground around your septic tank is a good idea before opening the lid and pumping out the sewage. Check to see if there is any accumulation of effluent around the tank, and look over the septic tank lid to check whether it is in good shape.

Remove the Manhole Cover

Many septic systems these days are equipped with ” risers,” which make this task much easier by elevating the lids above earth. If you are unable to locate the lid of your septic tank, locate the tank and dig it up. There should be two lids, one for each compartment, in the box. In the majority of situations, the hole on the left corresponds to the first compartment, while the hole on the right corresponds to the second. In the first one, you simply need to take measurements, and that’s all.

Measure the Scum’s Thickness (SC)

To determine how thick the scum layer is in your tank, you’ll need to go for your trusty scum measuring stick, of course. Measure the distance between the stick and the opening of the septic tank, and then lower the stick until it lies on top of the scum layer and indicate the location of this intersection. As a further step, descend down through the whole scum layer with the elbow end leading directly into the scum layer. Rotate the stick 90 degrees and raise the stick as high as you can until you feel the bottom of the scum layer.

Take the distance between the two markers and multiply it by two.

Measure the Sludge’s Thickness (SL)

Make a hole in the scum layer with your handy sludge measuring stick and carefully lower the stick through it after tying two feet of a white cloth to the stick. Mark the point on the stick where it comes into contact with the aperture of the manhole or riser. After that, drop it to the very bottom of the tank and keep it there for 5 minutes to allow the sludge to adhere to the cloth towel. Measure the distance between the tanks or the operating depth of the tank. Remove the stick and use the rag to measure the height of the black stain that should be visible on it.

Following the completion of these measures, you will be able to calculate when it is necessary to pump your septic tank.

SC plus SL equals inches

WD inches divided by 3 equals inches
If the sum of A and B equals the sum of A and B, pump your tank.

It is recommended that you engage a professional to examine your tank in order to get an accurate reading; but, if you are comfortable doing it yourself, you may save money by using this approach. Besides saving you money, Septic Maxx may also save you money by reducing the amount of accumulation in your tank and so extending the intervals between pumping.

How to Inspect a Septic System

Septic tank systems in residential buildings must be examined and pumped on a regular basis to ensure that they continue to work properly.

In this piece, we’ll go through the best way for performing a DIY septic tank examination.

Your Septic System 101

It’s important to understand how your septic system works and what you should check for while inspecting the tank before you can evaluate your system. A septic system is basically comprised of a tank buried in the ground that is connected to a structure (such as your home) by drain pipes. A septic system can be installed in a variety of configurations. When waste water departs your house through the toilets and sinks, it is sent to the septic tank for treatment. Any particles present in the water (such as food scraps from your kitchen sink) will sink to the bottom of the tank, leaving a layer of sludge on the bottom.

If the drain field in your yard is full, water from the septic tank will flow into it and filter through the soil, eventually reaching the ground water underneath you.

At the course of time, both the sludge in the bottom of the tank and the scum on the top of it expand in size.
This is due to the fact that sludge or scum that enters the drain field has a high likelihood of clogging the tank.
A clean-out of the septic tank is necessary when the amount of sludge or scum in the tank exceeds one-third of the total volume of the tank.

Safety Information

Follow these safety precautions before you begin checking your tank:

Work with a companion
Never lean over the tank and inhale the vapors

Never work alone. Never walk into a tank to look for someone who has fallen into it. Unless you have received particular training for the task, never enter a septic tank on your own initiative

You should keep in mind that septic tanks can contain enough methane gas that it can cause someone to lose consciousness, and that falling into one is typically fatal.

Performing the Inspection

Using a 10 foot 2×4 and marking it with measurement lines every 6 inches, you’ll be able to tell how deep down into the liquid the 2×4 has been placed when you put it into the tank when you put it into the tank. Insert the 2×4 into the tank slowly and carefully. There will be a coating of scum on the surface. Upon breaking through the scum to the liquid underneath, you’ll notice an immediate shift in texture. When you feel this happen, notice the height of the scum on the board markings. Then, carefully slide the board through the liquid until it hits the layer of sludge on the bottom.

When the board reaches the muck, take note of the height of the board.

The estimated height of the scum layer and the approximate height of the sludge layer may be determined using the measurements made on a piece of paper or on a piece of board.

If this is the case, the sludge represents just one-fifth of the total volume of the tank’s contents.

In addition to answering your questions to the best of our abilities, we will come out to your home if the plumbing system is in need of repair.

Should A Septic Tank Be Pumped Before Inspection – Greenville Septic

If you have a septic system, it is critical that it is kept in excellent working condition in order to ensure that it functions correctly. It is possible to have a septic check performed to assist verify that everything is running properly, as well as to identify any potential problems with the system. Most checks involve opening the tank and checking the liquid level to see whether or not the tank is leaking or is excessively full. When the levels are normal, additional water is injected to the system to verify that water is flowing from your home to the tank and absorption area as intended.

Pumping and Inspection

The average septic tank should be pumped every three to five years, depending on the size of your system. In the event that you request an inspection, the entire tank will be pumped at that time unless it has already been pumped and there are no solids present in the tank. There is also an exemption in the case of a system that fails the inspection before any pumping has taken place. The installation of a pump to check the backflow from the absorption area will be necessary if this is the case.

These signs will assist in determining whether or not pumping will be required.

What Happens During Pumping

Depending on whether or not you have your septic tank pumped, the inspector will check for a range of issues. At the bottom of the tank, there should be three distinct layers of sludge, gray water, and scum to collect waste. In order for the tank to function properly, it must be running at the appropriate level. Before they begin pumping, the inspector verifies these layers and levels to ensure they are correct. After the pumping has been completed, the inspector will shine a light into the tank to check its contents.

Aside from that, your inspector should clean the effluent screen in your tank.

Besides that, they’ll check to see that your tank is completely waterproof and that there are no apparent fractures that may suggest any severe damage.

Any damage or leakage may necessitate the need for repairs, thus it is advised that you get your septic tank pumped in order to get a better image of the status of your tank.

Understand the Septic Inspection Process

There are certain distinctions in care, usage, and budgeting that you should be aware of, whether you’re a new homeowner with an existing septic system or considering about purchasing or building a home without sewer hookups. This document outlines three ways in which your budget will be affected if your wastewater is treated using a septic system. 1. You will not be required to budget for municipal sewer service. Because the municipal wastewater system normally processes all of the water, the cost of city sewage service is sometimes determined by how much water you purchase from the city.

A large number of homes with septic systems also rely on wells for fresh water rather than municipal water, which means you’ll likely save money in that department as well.
It is necessary to include septic maintenance in your budget.
Although you are not required to pay the city for the usage of your septic system, you will be responsible for the costs of maintenance if you want the system to continue to function properly.

It is possible that these maintenance and repair expenditures will build up over time, so you may want to consider setting up an emergency fund to cover any unforeseen repair bills.
You’ll also need to budget for the cost of a single inspection and begin saving for the cost of a tank pump.
Spreading the expenditures out over several months is the most effective budgeting strategy, even for an expense such as tank pumping that does not occur every year, because it allows you to better estimate the costs ahead of time.

You may need to set aside money for septic tank replacement.

The tank and leach field may not need to be replaced if you have a reasonably recent septic system and plan to sell your home within a few years.

If, on the other hand, your home’s septic system is more than a decade old, you’ll want to start looking into how much a new system would cost you as soon as possible.

For example, if the previous owners did not do routine maintenance or if the system was installed on clay soil, the system may need to be replaced.

It is a prudent decision to begin putting money aside in anticipation of this eventuality.

When you have a septic system, you may use these three strategies to budget differently.

Make an appointment with us right away if you’re searching for someone to pump out your septic tank or to complete an annual examination of your septic system. Our experts at C.E. Taylor and Son Inc. would be happy to assist you with any septic system assessment, maintenance, or repair needs.

Boulder Septic Inspection

Is it safe for you to utilize your septic system? Do you have a leak that is allowing raw sewage to seep into your home, posing a major health hazard to your family? You could be able to, but you can also be completely unaware of it. You never know which components of your septic system may have failed or become loose, which is why it’s so crucial to have semi-annual expert inspections performed on your system: In addition, at NoCo Septic, our staff specializes in residential septic system inspections to ensure that your system is in excellent working order.

Call NoCo Septic at (720) 513-5037 to schedule a septic system checkup with one of our experienced technicians!

Our Signature Inspection Process

NoCo Septic provides comprehensive septic system examinations to our residential clients that cover a wide range of topics. In order to verify that everything is in correct functioning order and to detect anything that needs to be fixed or replaced, we take our time with every inspection we undertake. The tools and cameras that we use to check your septic system are the best in the business, and they help us detect any issues and avoid future ones. Our septic inspection procedure comprises of the following steps:

Examining previously issued permits and approvals: It is important for us to comprehend the whole septic system that is currently serving your Boulder home. It is customary for the original permit to include information such as the date of installation, which shows how old a system is, the size of the septic tank and soil treatment area, as well as their geographical positions on the land, among other things. Especially if you are unaware about the location of your septic system on your property, this may be quite valuable. Our crew will even record the information about the septic system for future reference. Inspection of the septic system includes the following steps: The soil treatment area, also known as the leach field, is protected by the components in your septic tank, and these components are crucial. The condition of the baffles at the entrance, mid-tank, and outflow of the septic tank is checked, as is the fact that they are properly connected to the septic tank. We shall make a special note of the septic tank’s current operating pressure. The fact that it is excessively high may indicate that the soil treatment region is experiencing difficulties, which might result in backups within your home. If the level of the septic tank falls below its typical operating level, this might be an indication that the tank is not watertight and that water is leaking into the ground surrounding it. Additionally, we want to take a measurement of the sludge that has gathered within the septictank prior to pumping it out. An additional service that we give is a high-definition camera inspection, which provides us with real-time video feed displaying any blockages, breaks, clogs, cracks, or buildup within your system’s sewage lines. Hydraulic load test: The hydraulic load test is performed at the time of the inspection to ensure that the operational level of the septic tank remains at a normal level throughout the inspection process. We will activate various water faucets throughout the house in order to simulate indoor water use. If the water level in the tank begins to increase, it might be an indication that the soil treatment area need repair. Septic tank pumping: We pump the septic tank to remove all of the liquid and sludge that has accumulated. It is a service that is required by numerous counties in Boulder and Northern Colorado, including Boulder. A structural examination of your septic tank will also be completed during this procedure, which will involve performing tests for cracks, corrosion, and other types of structural flaw
Area for soil remediation: The soil treatment area is responsible for the last cleaning of wastewater before it is discharged into groundwater. As your trash is disposed of, it is vital to inspect your soil treatment area to ensure that environmental health is not jeopardized. It is determined whether or not the soiltreatment area is saturated visibly, and your monitoringpipes are inspected. “The system is probed to determine saturation inside the field, and after it has been done, we will be able to identify any possible difficulties that may develop.”

Throughout every stage of your Boulder septic inspection, our professional,fully-licensed professionals will remain in touch with you, providing youa comprehensive picture of what we discover and what needs to be done to guarantee thelongevity of your home septic system.

Signs You Need A Septic Inspection

Even when something is as near to your heart as your septic system, it’s always a good idea to be proactive about keeping it in good working order. There are a lot of reasons why your septic system should be evaluated on a regular basis because of its high volume of use. It is recommended that you have your system examined every three to five years, or whenever you have your septic tank drained, and maybe more frequently if you see any indicators of a problem with your system. If you see any of the following symptoms, you should contact NoCo Septic to schedule an inspection:.

If your drains are running slowly, it is possible that you have a clog or obstruction in your septic system. It is critical to get them removed as soon as possible in order to keep restoration expenses down. If you notice bad odors or raw sewage on your property, call 911 immediately. A sewage blockage can cause toxic waste to spill into your land, contaminating your groundwater table. If you notice foul odors, call a plumber immediately. If you smell sewage, call for an examination as soon as possible. Water that collects in a pool: It is an indication of a blockage in your septic tank or in your yard, and it should be remedied as soon as it is discovered. So arrange an inspection and repair appointment as soon as possible because this water might very likely be polluted

Your well water is tainted as follows: Even a tiny quantity of pollution might be a major calamity if you rely on a well for your drinking water source. You should not drink water if it smells weird or displays any symptoms of discoloration due to sewage
Instead, you should contact for aid right away. Plants and grass that are dying: If your tank or drain field is leaking, the plants and grass around it may begin to die. If the plant life in a certain region is dying, it is likely that there is a problem with your septic system.

Although your septic system may not be directly responsible for these problems, there is a significant possibility that it is linked in some manner. We, at NoCo Septic, will come to you and provide you with a rapid and accurate diagnostic of problems with your septic system as soon as possible to assist you in receiving the fast and trustworthy information that you require as soon as possible. Our crew is standing by to provide you with a high-quality septic inspection! To get started, call NoCo Septic right away.

Septic Tank Inspection

Inspection and maintenance of any on-site septic system are critical components of the system’s operation. Inspection and pumping of your tank on a regular basis are both essential parts of preventative maintenance. The frequency at which a tank must be pumped is determined by a number of factors. The most essential considerations are the size of the septic tank, the waste products disposed of, and the amount of water used. Because these variables differ from house to house, it is critical that your system be examined and pumped on a regular basis by a reliable business.

Tyrone, Peachtree City, Sharpsburg, Fayetteville, and Senoia should all have a state-qualified inspector perform the inspection, in addition to Fayette and Coweta counties having certified inspectors do the inspection as well.
Firehouse Septic, for example, can send you to one of these departments if they believe you need one.

Sometimes this is relatively simple, but in the majority of situations, having your septic firm contact Fayette and Coweta counties to obtain your septic system drawing is the best choice.
In rare circumstances, the tank may be too deep for the probe to reach, and a radio transmitter will be required to find the tank.
Once above the surface, a receiver may be utilized by the septic professional to trace down the transmitter and pinpoint the location of the tank.

The next stage in the inspection procedure is to locate and uncover the tank.
In some cases, this may even result in a cost savings on the inspection.

Once the tank has been opened, it is possible to conduct an inspection of the tank and its components.

In addition to checking all lids for cracks, they will check the tank for cracks and leaks.

Following the inspection of the tank’s components, the professional can examine the various levels within the vessel.

It will be determined by the expert how much solids are there at the top of the septic tank as well as how much sludge is present at the bottom of the tank.

In this way, the waste water is prevented from polluting ground water, and the ground water is prevented from filling your septic tank with water.

In addition to your baffles and tees, a professional should evaluate all other components of your tank, as we have already described in detail.

In this way, the waste water may settle and separate in the proper manner.

The baffle should be replaced with an appropriate tee in the event that it is damaged or missing.

It is also recommended that the septic company examine the lines that enter and exit the tank.

It is vital that there be no running water inside the house so that the septic company can ensure that there are no plumbing leaks in the house before proceeding.

If your tank is equipped with a filter, that filter will also need to be checked out.

It is necessary to clean and examine the filter on a regular basis, just as it is necessary to pump the tank.

It will need to be maintained and serviced on a regular basis, just like any other equipment in your home. Septic specialists, such as those at Firehouse Septic, can assist you in making this procedure as simple and painless as possible.

5 Signs Your Septic Drainfield Has Stopped Working

Unlike municipal septic systems, which consist just of a subterranean tank that collects waste and water, residential septic systems are more complex. Water finally departs the tank through an outlet pipe and into a network of long perforated pipes known as the leech or drainfield after reaching the tank’s interior. The drainfield is equally as vital as, if not more so than, the septic tank in terms of wastewater treatment. In the event that this component of the system begins to fail, prompt action might mean the difference between relatively small repairs and a total drainfield replacement.

Drainage is being slowed.
As long as there is still any water in the pipes of the field, the drains in your home will continue to function, albeit at a slower rate.
The presence of obstructions in the inlet or outlet pipe, as well as several other septic problems that are less difficult to resolve than drainfield problems, might result in delayed drainage.

2.
You may detect puddles or spongy and mushy ground all over the place if you look closely.
A backup occurs when the water level rises to a level that forces sewage up the input pipe and into the lowest drains in your house, which is known as a back up in the system.

Drainfield leaks can provide visible consequences on the surface if the drainfield leaks at a higher rate than typical or contains decaying material that is meant to remain in the tank.

Returning Flow is the fourth step.

If you presume that the tank just need pumping, the service technician may discover water and sewage entering the tank from the outlet in a reverse flow, which would indicate that the tank requires more than pumping.

The presence of reverse flow from the drainfield is an obvious indication that you want jetting or pipe replacement services.

The Development of Odors In the end, you can utilize your sense of smell to detect indicators of drainfield issue.

Any sewage or toilet scents, even if they are weak and difficult to detect, signal that you should have a professional evaluate your home immediately.

This is the most effective way.

Whenever we observe a decrease in drainage capacity, we will inform you of the problem and your choices for resolving it before the system stops processing waste altogether.

In addition, we’re pleased to address any of your questions or concerns concerning your drainfield or septic system in general with a professional response.

John Curtin Home Inspector – Septic Systems

PDF document that can be printed Septic Systems: What You Should Know WARNING: FOR MORE INFORMATION AND IMAGES, PLEASE SEE THE “PDF” AT THE TOP OF THIS ARTICLE. For the most part, households that are not serviced by municipal sewers are reliant on septic systems to process and dispose of their wastewater. Septic systems are available in a variety of configurations to accommodate a wide range of soil and site conditions. Gravity-fed systems are the most typical sort of system in our region, with a few exceptions.

A Typical Septic System has Three Main Parts:

The Septic Tank—The objective of a septic tank is to remove solids from wastewater, store and partially decompose as much solid material as possible, while allowing the liquid (or effluent) to flow to a drainfield or a cesspool. A typical home will have a 1000-gallon water storage tank installed. An absorption or leach field is used to collect liquid wastewater (or effluent) after particles have settled in the septic tank and while decomposition progresses. An absorption or leach field is also used to collect liquid wastewater (or effluent).

Following the passage of wastewater into the soil, organisms in the soil remediate the effluent before it percolates downward and outward, eventually entering ground or surface water sources.

Why Septic Systems Fail:

The failure of a system can result in property damage, ground (well water) and surface water contamination, and sickness, all of which are potentially harmful to public health. In the event that your septic system becomes ineffective, you may be forced to replace it, which might cost you thousands of dollars. Understanding and caring for your septic system is therefore a wise investment. Your everyday routine might have a significant impact on the operation of your septic system. Overloading the system with more water than it is capable of handling might result in system failure.

Chemicals such as detergents, softeners, and bleaches can destroy the microorganisms that contribute to the biological processes that result in healthy decomposition.
Modern materials, such as polyester, do not disintegrate in the same way as natural fibers such as cotton do.
Several different factors might be contributing to this issue.
A leaching system installed in inappropriate soil, a system that is too small for the house it serves, or a system that has been incorrectly designed can all result in premature failure of the system.
2.Soil Clogging and the Septic System If this occurs, the liquid will no longer be able to soak into or percolate through the soil.
Failure to have the tank pumped can also result in a situation where the sludge and scum build up to the point where the baffles get overwhelmed.
3.High water table and septic system; This situation may need the reinstallation of the system at a more advanced level.
Tree and shrubs roots that are planted too near to a septic system can occasionally infiltrate and clog the pipes of the system, causing it to overflow and overflow again.

Damage to the septic system caused by trucks or heavy equipment passing over it can cause pipes and joints to get damaged to the point where the system becomes unworkable. You should be aware of the system’s position and direct traffic in order to avoid causing harm to the system.

Maintaining Your System

The following maintenance recommendations can assist you in ensuring that your system provides long-term, efficient treatment of household waste. 1.Inspect and pump your septic tank on a regular basis. The most critical step in maintaining your septic tank is to eliminate sludge and scum build-up before it gets washed into the drainfield. 2.Inspect and pump your septic tank on a regular basis. It is dependent on the size of your tank, the number of people in your household, how much water is consumed, and the quantity of solids (from humans, garbage disposals, and any other waste) that enter the system that determines how frequently your tank has to be pumped.

Using water efficiently is important since excessive water usage is a primary cause of system failure.
Sludge and scum may not be able to separate properly if there is an excessive amount of water coming from the laundry, dishwasher, toilets, baths, and showers.
3.Decrease the amount of solid waste that is disposed of; what goes down the drain can have a significant influence on your septic system.
If you have the option of disposing of it in another manner, do so rather than introducing it into your system.
The improper dumping of dangerous substances down the drain is damaging to the environment, as well as the bacteria that are necessary for the breakdown of wastes in a septic system, and should be avoided.

Signs of Failure

The design of septic systems is such that they can provide long-term, effective treatment of household waste if they are properly operated and maintained. The majority of systems that fail prematurely, on the other hand, are the result of poor maintenance. Listed below are warning signals that your system need care. 1.Odors, surface sewage, moist areas, or a dense growth of plants in the drainfield region are all signs of a problem. 2.Backups in the plumbing or septic tank (often a black liquid with a disagreeable odor).

4.There are gurgling sounds coming from the plumbing system. 5.If you have a well and tests reveal the presence of coliform (bacteria) or nitrates, it’s possible that your drainfield is ceasing to function properly. 6.Lush green grass covering the drainfield, even in the midst of a drought.

What About Pump Stations?

A Pump Tank will be required if your leach field is located uphill from your home or if you have a pressurized sewer system in place. If you have a pump tank as part of your septic system, you should be aware that this is the only method for wastewater to go to the drainfield and out of your property. As long as your septic system is kept in good working order, your drainfield should endure for a long period of time. Improper maintenance (i.e., not pumping the septic tank) may enable sludge to accumulate in the pump tank, causing the pump to malfunction and eventually resulting in the sludge being pumped into the drainfield.

When you pump your septic tank, spend a little additional money and have your pump tank thoroughly cleaned rid of debris.

Fore more information check:

Septic System Fundamentals: Maintaining your septic system consists of the following steps: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for protecting the environment.