How To Prolong Septic Tank Cleaning? (Question)

Use These 9 Tips to Maintain Your Septic Tank and Extend Its Life | Septic Tank Pumping in Chattanooga, TN

Inspect and Pump Frequently.
Locate Tank.

Use Water Efficiently.
High-Pressure Water Jetting.
Bacteria Additive.

Effluent Filter.
Properly Dispose of Waste.
Maintain Drain Field.

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On average, a septic tank will need to be pumped every three to five years. However, there are other measures you can take that will help extend this time and prevent any backups, clogging or unpleasant odors. Mix 2 tablespoons of lemon or lemon extract, ¼ cup of baking soda, and ½ cup of vinegar to naturally clean your septic tank.

How do I keep my septic tank clean?

Do’s and Don’ts when maintaining your septic system

Regularly inspect and maintain your septic system.
Pump your septic tank as needed.
Keep your septic tank lids closed and secured.

Be water-wise.
Direct water from land and roof drains away from the drainfield.
Landscape with love.

Keep septic tank lids easily accessible.

How many years should you clean your septic tank?

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 I increase bacteria in my septic tank?

Flush a packet of brewer’s dry yeast down one toilet on the bottom floor of your house once a month. The yeast will help add “good” bacteria to your septic tank and break down waste.

What is the life of a septic system?

The average lifespan of a septic system is 15 to 40 years, but it can last longer if properly maintained! Think at the sink. Consider what you put into your toilet and sink and the impact it may have on your system.

How do I keep my cesspool healthy?

How to Keep Your Septic System Healthy

How the Septic System Works.
Don’t Overload the Septic Tank and Drain field.
Use an Efficient Toilet.

Don’t Treat the Toilet as a Garbage Disposal.
Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain.
Divert Rain Water From the Septic Drain Field.

Keep Trees Away from the Septic System.

How often should septic tank filter be cleaned?

A filter significantly reduces the number of solids that would normally clog up the drain field, which will extend the life of the Septic System. How often should I clean the filter in my Septic Tank? Most manufacturers recommended cleaning the effluent filter in your Septic Tank every 6 months for proper operation.

How can I increase bacteria in my septic tank naturally?

Homemade Septic Tank Treatment The ingredients required for this natural solution are the following: Water, Sugar, Cornmeal, and Dry Yeast. To concoct this mixture, first start by boiling roughly a half gallon of water. Add in 2 cups of sugar. The sugar will act as the first food your bacteria will eat!

What are the signs that 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?

Do septic tank additives really work?

There is little scientific data to suggest that you should add bacteria or enzymes to your septic system. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reported that biological additives do not appear to improve the performance of healthy septic tanks.

How do I clean my septic tank naturally?

You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!

How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?

For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.

Can you put too much bacteria in a septic tank?

Too much of a good thing can cause problems. A septic system relies on the correct balance of bacteria to do its job. An overpopulation of bacteria can deplete the oxygen in the septic tank and turn the environment septic. A septic, septic system is one in which the ecosystem within the tank is out of balance.

What kills bacteria in septic tanks?

For example, while chlorine bleach is a useful disinfectant in the home, it kills beneficial septic tank bacteria. In addition to bleach, avoid constant use of antibacterial soap and harsh drain cleaners. Also, many toilet bowl cleaners have bleach or hydrochloric acid, which kills septic tank bacteria.

What is the best bacteria to put in septic tank?

Much like your stomach, septic tanks need good bacteria and enzymes to break down the solids that pass through it. These beneficial bacteria and enzymes can come from several sources, but our favorite is actually rotten tomatoes. These naturally occurring enzymes are proteins called Pectinase or Pectinolytic enzymes.

Three Ways To Extend The Time Between Necessary Septic Pumping Appointments

Residential septic tanks should be drained every three to five years, according to experts, in order to avoid problems. While septic tank pumping services are not prohibitively expensive, if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll want to be sure that you’re not having your septic tank pumped more frequently than is absolutely necessary to prevent backups. In order to increase the safety of your septic tank and allow you to wait five years rather than three years between pumping sessions, here are three techniques to reduce the buildup of dirt, grease, and other non-biodegradable gunk.

Don’t use your garbage disposal.

Despite the fact that it is handy, a trash disposal is the greatest nightmare a septic system could ever have. By flushing food leftovers down the toilet and into your septic tank on a regular basis, you are significantly increasing the amount of material that accumulates in it. For those who do not use a waste disposal, some sites even advocate filling your tank once a year because it makes such a significant impact.

Only flush toilet paper down your toilet.

A large number of toiletry goods, such as wet wipes and tampons, are labeled as being safe to flush in the toilet. If you don’t mind having your septic tank drained on a regular basis, this may be the case. If you’re attempting to lengthen the time between pumping visits, it’s recommended to flush nothing but toilet paper down the toilet. Upon contact with water, toilet paper decomposes swiftly and finds its way into your septic leach field. All of the other “flushable” objects just accumulate in the tank, diminishing the capacity of the tank until they are emptied by the pump.

Don’t rinse bleach or other harsh cleaners down your drain.

Microorganisms living in your septic tank are responsible for breaking down waste so that it may be flushed out into the leach field in your backyard. As a result of chemicals such as bleach and ammonia reducing the numbers of these bacteria, waste decomposition might take longer to complete, resulting in higher costs. Use green, environmentally friendly cleaning products like as vinegar and baking soda to keep your bacteria in good health. Because your waste will accumulate more slowly in the tank, you will be able to safely wait longer between pumping operations without having to worry about overflowing.

A common error is to never pump your tank at all, which will almost certainly result in a flooded yard, a ruptured tank, or unsafe bacterial levels on your property.

Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Septic Tank System

Septic tank systems are built to survive for decades if they are properly maintained, and many properties still have their original system in place. If you have a septic system in your house, you should follow these guidelines to extend the life of the system. Installing a Garbage Disposal is not recommended. The installation of a trash disposal in your kitchen may make it easier to dispose of food waste after meals, but it will impair the ability of your septic tank to work correctly. Foods that are difficult to break down, such as coffee grounds, bones, grease, and oil, quickly sink to the bottom of the tank and become a hazard.

As this sludge accumulates, it impairs your tank’s capacity to effectively digest other waste, requiring you to clear out the tank on a more frequent basis.
Food, for example, can accumulate in pipes and cause blockages to form.

Do not cut down trees in the immediate vicinity.
Two types of issues can arise as a result of tree roots interfering with septic systems: Branches from a tree may be able to enter your system’s sewage line or any of its drainage pipes if a fracture develops in one of these pipes.
Roots that grow up and down a pipe generate obstructions that necessitate the usage of pricey pipe repair services.

If a root does manage to crush or drill its way into a pipe, it will most likely continue to develop along the inside of the pipe, just as it would if it had entered via a hole.
A professional landscaper will most likely be able to recommend some shrubs or other choices that have less extensive root systems and will not clog a septic system’s drain lines and pipes.

Toilet Paper is a type of paper that is used to clean toilets.

The flushing of other goods down a toilet that is connected to a septic tank, on the other hand, is not recommended.

If you flush these items down the toilet, you should expect to experience problems similar to those caused by food.

If they do, you’ll have to pay to have that section of the line fixed or completely replaced.

If you get your septic system maintained on a regular basis, it will last longer, similar to other systems.

In addition, services give an opportunity to evaluate the tank and other components for signs of deterioration, and any faults that are discovered may be remedied before they become larger, more expensive ones.

Not only can a professional service your system, but he or she can also provide you with advice on regular septic maintenance. Contact Southern Sanitary Systems Inc. if you need to get your septic system serviced.

How-to Extend the Life of Your Septic Tank

Despite the fact that septic systems are buried underground and out of site, this does not imply that they should be out of sight or mind. Despite their simplicity, septic tanks are very complex, and there is no limit to the amount of environmental factors that might shorten their useful life expectancy, which should be up to 40 years if properly maintained. That is why it is critical for homeowners to do periodic maintenance and service inspections on their vehicles. Too many septic system owners have a “set it and forget it” mentality when it comes to their tanks.

Isn’t that correct?
Nothing in life operates in this manner.
Nevertheless, what exactly does it mean to take care of your septic system?

What is the best way to determine whether you need to engage an expert to address a problem?
You can relax.

1.) Pump your tank every three to five years

Septic systems are not trash incinerators, as some people believe. All of the garbage that you flush down the sink or toilet must eventually find its way elsewhere. A properly operating septic system takes wastewater from your house and eventually filters it through a drain field to eliminate odors. The hard waste, referred to as “sludge,” on the other hand, collects at the bottom of the tank. The sludge is the primary reason for the necessity to pump the tank on a regular basis, since if there is an excessive amount of it in the tank, it will cause complications.

The frequency with which you must pump the tank is determined by the capacity of the tank and the amount of wastewater that is discharged into it.

Household size: The greater the number of people that live in your home, the more wastewater is drained into the tank, resulting in an increased requirement for a routine septic pump.

The amount of wastewater generated is determined by the number of people living in the home for the vast majority of individuals. However, no two households are the same. It’s probable that you’ll need to pump the tank sooner than usual if, for whatever reason, your home creates more wastewater than is customary.

It is important to note that the larger the septic tank, the more wastewater it can manage and the less frequently you will have to pump out the sludge.

2.) Have your tank inspected by a professional

A minimum of once every three years, you should have your septic system examined and cleaned. In certain areas, there are precise regulations for how often a septic tank must be examined, and these standards vary based on the type of system that is in use. Inspection services are provided by private firms as well as by municipal health agencies. You may be able to check the tank yourself if you know what you’re doing and have the necessary credentials. It is the primary goal of an inspection to notice any accumulation of sludge at the bottom of the tank and to ensure that the level has not risen to the point where it is necessary to pump it.

The distribution of wastewater to drain pipes should also be examined by inspectors, who should ensure that it is even and free of obstructions.

The number of occupants can, of course, fluctuate, but the size of the tank is constant.

There is a possibility that the system is overloaded or that there has been a breach in the drain field, allowing untreated wastewater to seep into the soil.

–Attachment of pipes, baffles, and other tank components in a secure manner Inspectors will check to see whether there are any obstructions in the pipes that might prevent wastewater from flowing freely.

3.) Don’t flush solid objects

Your septic tank is intended to handle only three things: human waste, water, and toilet paper. That’s all there is to it! Unfortunately, many individuals use their toilets and drains as if they were garbage cans, believing that they are capable of handling anything they are flushed down them. This is not correct! Any of the following items should never be flushed down the drain, regardless of the type of septic system you have installed:

Wipes for babies or wet wipes
Feminine hygiene products

Cooking grease or oil
Diapers
Dental floss

Q-tips or cotton swabs
And other household items Butts from cigarettes or tobacco residue
Consumption chemicals (gasoline (paint, pesticides, home cleaners) and paper towels are among the items that might be found in the trash.

Wipes for babies or wet wipes; feminine hygiene products; cooking grease or oil; diapers; dental floss; Q-tips or cotton swabs; sanitary napkins Butts from cigarettes or tobacco residue Consumption chemicals (gasoline (paint, pesticides, household cleansers) and paper towels are among the items that might be found in the home.

4.) Use water efficiently

The greater the amount of wastewater produced by your home, the greater the burden on your septic system and the drain field surrounding it. Septic tank longevity may be extended significantly by conserving water and reducing the number of times you flush your toilet. In addition to merely being aware of your water use, you may take the following steps to reduce your consumption of water:

Wait until you have a full load of clothes before starting. Considering that washing machines and hand-washing both require vast volumes of water to clean, this is applicable to both situations

Only use your dishwasher when it is completely full. Contrary to popular belief, a fully loaded dishwasher consumes less water than washing a comparable quantity of dishes by hand
Hence, if you have a dishwasher, avoid doing too much hand washing
And Make repairs to any dripping faucets, pipes, or shower heads, even if the leak is only a little drip

Toilet and shower heads with high-efficiency aerators should be installed. Compared to earlier versions, these systems consume less water, which may help you save money on both your septic tank and your water bill.

5.) Care for land around the tank and drain field

Allow for a full load of washing before beginning. As a result, both washing machines and hand-washing require enormous volumes of water to clean; this is applicable to both. Dishwashers should only be used when they are completely loaded. Although it may seem counterintuitive, filling up a dishwasher with a full load consumes less water than washing a similar quantity of dishes by hand. If you have a dishwasher, avoid doing too much hand cleaning; Make repairs to any dripping faucets, pipes, or shower heads, even if the leak is only a little one.

Compared to earlier versions, these systems consume less water, which can help you save money on your septic tank and your water bill.

6.) When in doubt, hire a pro

Wait till you have a full load of clothes before you start. This applies to both washing machines and hand-washing, as both require a significant volume of water to clean well. Run your dishwasher only when it is completely full. Contrary to popular belief, a fully loaded dishwasher consumes less water than washing a similar quantity of dishes by hand; thus, if you have a dishwasher, avoid doing too much hand cleaning. Make repairs to any dripping faucets, pipes, or shower heads, even if the leak is only a little one; Install aerators as well as water-saving toilets and shower heads.

Simple Tips to Extend the Life of Your Septic System

If you reside in a rural area, it is probable that your home’s waste disposal system is handled by a septic system rather than by the city sewage system. When your septic tank is functioning properly, the organic waste from your home flows easily into it, where it is broken down by the bacteria in the tank, and eventually decomposed by the bacteria. This ensures that the tank continues to operate efficiently for many years. However, when the tank is not operating correctly or when there is a problem with the system, the waste does not break down in a timely manner.

When your property is dependent on a septic system, you will need to be a little more cautious about what you put down your drains, as well as set aside some time each month to perform some routine maintenance to avoid problems down the line.
Septic tank systems are generally simple to maintain, and if you take the proper precautions, your tank will last you for many years before it has to be replaced.
Reduce your water use to a bare minimum.

Bacteria are destroyed when there is an excessive amount of water pouring into the tank and you do not have a dependable drainage and recycling system in place to handle it.
Only wash full loads of clothes and only do one load per day to conserve water and tank capacity; avoid overly long showers; and remind everyone in the family to turn off the sink when it is not in use to conserve water and tank capacity (while brushing teeth, for instance).
In order to avoid flooding and overflowing your tank, we recommend that you do not use dishwashers or washing machines overnight and that you repair any plumbing system leaks or other problems, as well as installing high-efficiency plumbing fittings.

Do not park vehicles in close proximity to the system.

This can also result in the failure of septic pipes and the subsequent degradation of the entire system.

A septic tank is a type of underground storage tank that is used to hold solid wastes until they can be naturally broken down.

The solid waste at the bottom of the tank that has not yet decomposed tends to accumulate over time, and if it is not removed, it will ultimately fill the tank and leak into your yard along with the effluent.

If you have a modest household, you will most likely be able to prolong the service for another five years or so.

Pumping the tank on a regular basis helps to keep dangerous tank sludge and sewage overflow at bay.

This is especially true if you have a septic system, which may become blocked more readily than a conventional system. It is best not to flush any of the following items down any drain in your home:

Unusable toilet paper

Condoms or feminine hygiene items
Cotton balls or swabs
Dental floss

“flushable” cat litter
“flushable” wipes
Excessively thick toilet paper. Paper towels

A glass or a plastic container
Stickers should be made. Rags, stringy veggies, and other like things. Anything that is hard, sharp, or does not appear to be likely to decompose in a natural way

Excessively-thick toilet paper; condoms or feminine hygiene items; cotton balls or swabs; dental floss; flushable cat litter; flushable wipes; toilet paper that is too thick Paper towels; a glass or a piece of plastic Stickers should be made; Vegetables that are stringy, like rags Anything that is hard, sharp, or does not appear to be likely to decompose in a natural environment;

Unusable toilet paper
Condoms or feminine hygiene items
Cotton balls or swabs

Dental floss
“flushable” cat litter
“flushable” wipes

Excessively thick toilet paper Paper towels
A glass or a plastic container Stickers should be produced. Rags
Stringy veggies

Rag dolls Anything that is hard, sharp, or does not appear to be likely to decompose spontaneously

6. Inspect the property on an annual basis A professional should examine your septic system at least once a year, and preferably more often. This might entail a tank or drain test, or it could be as simple as a visual assessment of the most important septic components. Regardless, a professional can spot problems with your septic tank and correct them before the tank becomes a concern to the environment on your premises. In some cases, cracks in the septic tank might allow sewage to flow underground, resulting in a costly hazardous waste cleanup.

Make certain that your yard does not cause damage to the tank.

Create alternative pathways for runoff, rainwater management, and household or animal water management to quickly and easily combat this problem.

Because of changing soil, runoff can potentially expose your tank and cause it to break.

Signs of Problem in Your Septic System

Pipes are making gurgling noises. If you hear gurgling sounds after flushing the toilet or after running the water, it might be an indication that the tank is full and need a pump.

Drainage is slow. If you discover that your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, or bathtub is draining slowly, it is possible that there is a problem with your home’s piping system or septic system.

Having Problems Flushing When your toilet is sluggish to flush or refuses to flush at all, there is a risk that there is a severe problem with the septic system at the root of it. It’s possible that the tank is completely filled. A septic tank cleaning might help to resolve this issue.

Back-up of water If water is backing up into the home or sewage is backing up into the house, it is time to contact for professional assistance. Septic system backups are one of the most obvious signs that anything is wrong with your system.

Make a call to West Coast Sanitation right away! Septic systems, like all other systems, require routine maintenance to keep them operating properly. Schedule an inspection with a septic technician from West Coast Sanitation at least once every year. When your contractor performs a maintenance session, he or she will pump your septic system, do a drain test, and inspect the system for problems. We at West Coast Sanitation understand that you are busy and don’t have time to deal with septic issues.

If you have any questions, we have specialists standing by to help you resolve them and get your system back up and running.

Maintenance tips to extend the life of your septic tank

KEN FLOURNOYON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2018 11:16:34 AM Do you have a septic tank at your residence? If so, you’re not alone: approximately one in every five American houses relies on a septic system rather than connecting to a municipal sewage system, with rural regions accounting for the majority of these installations.

When you rely on a septic tank, you’ll have to be a bit more careful about what you put down your drains, as well as set aside some time each month to perform some routine maintenance to avoid difficulties down the line. Here’s how to keep your septic system in good working order:

Have it pumped every few years

A septic tank is a type of underground storage tank that is used to hold solid wastes until they can be naturally broken down. It is then possible for this processed water (effluent) to depart the tank and filter into the soil in your yard, where nature continues to break it down even further. The solid waste at the bottom of the tank that has not yet decomposed tends to accumulate over time, and if it is not removed, it will ultimately fill the tank and leak out onto your yard with the effluent.

You should consider having your septic tank emptied as soon as possible if you have recently moved into a new house with one.

Don’t let antibacterial substances down any drain in your home

We understand that having microorganisms in your house is a negative thing. When you have a septic system, on the other hand, you rely on beneficial bacteria to break down particles. In the event that you pour bacteria-killing bleach down your drain, the bleach will continue to kill germs after it has reached your septic tank, jeopardizing the operation of your tank and potentially polluting the water supply in your town. If you have a septic system, you may still clean with Lysol and other household cleaners, but don’t flush it down the toilet or pour it down the sink drain, either.

Bleach (or cleansers containing bleach) should be avoided. Lysol, hydrogen peroxide, and any other cleaning that claims to be able to destroy bacteria are all good choices. Chlorine (such as that found in a swimming pool or hot tub)
Paints and solvents, for example. Pesticides
sMedications

Motor oil and antifreeze, among other things
Nail paint and its remover
And other such items.

However, if you are reading this after the fact, you may still be able to heal the damage with the use of a specific septic tank enzyme solution like ENDURE.

Keep oils, fats, and greases out of your drains

When it comes to conventional plumbing systems, we’ve talked about the devastation that fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can wreak, but when it comes to septic systems, the difficulties are doubled. These fatty molecules do not decompose, and instead accumulate as a layer of scum on the surface of your tank’s water column. When that amount becomes excessive, it has the potential to overrun the tank and leach out with the wastewater into your lawn and garden. No, thank you very much.

Don’t put these problematic items down your toilet or garbage disposal

There are a variety of items that people flush or pour down their drains that appear harmless (and may even be labeled “flushable!”), but which might really create plumbing difficulties. This is especially true if you have a septic system, which may become blocked more readily than a conventional system. It is best not to flush any of the following items down any drain in your home:

Toilet paper that is too thick (here’s how to tell if it’s septic safe)
Condoms or feminine hygiene products that are not septic safe
Cotton balls or cotton swabs are acceptable substitutes. Flushable cat litter and wipes
Glass or plastic
Paper towels
Produce stickers
Rags
Stringy veggies are all examples of items that fall into this category. It includes everything that is hard or sharp, or that doesn’t appear likely to degrade naturally

Get it checked annually!

Knowing more about septic tanks can save your life, or at the very least save you from having to deal with a messy situation. It is far preferable to uncover problems early than than attempt to restore extensive harm. It is thus advisable to arrange a septic tank inspection once a year. Topics:Toilets,DrainsSewers

Tips to Extend The Lifespan of Your Septic System

Your septic tank system is an integral component of your home’s plumbing system. It is critical to take adequate care of it in order for it to function smoothly and safely. Here are some simple steps you can do to increase the longevity of your septic system. Set up a regular schedule for pumping. Pumping your septic system on a regular basis is one of the most effective strategies to extend its life. Most specialists recommend that you have your tank pumped at least once every three years, but depending on the size of your home and the complexity of your system, you may need to have it pumped more frequently.

Regular pumping will also enable small problems and difficulties to be identified and addressed as soon as they arise.
Other than human waste and toilet paper, your septic tank system is not designed to handle any other types of waste.
Make sure everyone who will be staying in your home understands that they are not permitted to flush anything other than toilet paper.
Some of the strong chemicals included in some bathroom cleaning solutions might be detrimental to your septic system.
Adding chemicals to your septic tank will destroy the beneficial bacteria in your tank, causing the amounts of waste in your tank to rise and fall.
Whenever possible, avoid landscaping or digging near a drain field.

In the vicinity of a tank, digging or the use of digging equipment might result in the tank itself or vital pipelines linked to the tank being accidently pierced or punctured. Other methods of extending the life of your septic system may be obtained by contacting Affordable Pumping Services.

How Often Should You Get Your Septic Tank Pumped? The Answer, Explained

Image courtesy of depositphoto.com

Q: I recently bought a new house, and it has a septic system. I don’t have any experience with septic tanks, and I’m not sure how often it needs to be emptied and cleaned. How often should you get your septic tank pumped?

The usual rule of thumb is that an aseptic tank should be pumped and flushed every 3 to 5 years. Homes located outside of a city may rely on septic tanks for waste disposal because they do not have access to local sewage systems. A septic system is an ecologically beneficial, safe, and natural method of disposing of waste generated by a household. The lifespan of a septic tank system can be extended by several decades with adequate care and maintenance, as well as regular septic tank pumping.

As a result, because the solids (or sludge) are heavier than water, they will sink to the bottom of the tank, where bacteria and microorganisms will devour and dissolve them.
The middle layer of watery effluent will depart the tank by way of perforated subterranean pipes and will eventually end up in a drainage or leach field.
In the long run, an excessive amount of sludge will impair the bacteria’s capacity to break down waste and will cause it to overflow into the drainage field.
As a result, how frequently should your septic tank be pumped?
Link up with reputable professionals in your region and obtain free, no-obligation quotations for your project.+

First, keep in mind the size of your septic tank.

The majority of septic tanks have a capacity of between 1,000 and 2,000 gallons. If you’re not sure how large your septic tank is, an expert from a septic tank cleaning business may come out and check it for you to discover its precise dimensions. The size of the tank has a role in deciding how frequently it should be pumped, among other things. The duration between pumping for a 1,000-gallon tank and another 1,500-gallon tank is 2.6 years; however, the time between pumps can be extended to 4.2 years and up to 5 years for a 2,000-gallon tank, depending on the tank size.

Your house size and number of household members will affect how often the septic tank needs to be pumped.

The size of the septic tank will be determined by the size of the house itself. If you have a 3-bedroom home, you will require a larger-sized tank than if you have a 2-bedroom home. Your neighbors might be a great source of information about the area. Consider speaking with them and inquiring about the size of their septic tank in relation to the number of people that reside in their homes. With this information, you will be able to determine how frequently you should have your septic tank pumped for your particular system.

The sorts of soaps, cleansers, and chemicals that you use in your house, as well as how frequently they are flushed down the toilet, all have an impact on when your septic tank has to be pumped. Image courtesy of depositphoto.com

Consider the total wastewater generated, including laundry, dishwashing, and showers.

Individuals use an average of 70 gallons of water each day, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Septic systems will last longer if they are used efficiently, and they will be less likely to clog, backup, or leak if they are used efficiently. Septic systems are well-understood by professionals. Connect with reputable professionals in your area and obtain free, no-obligation estimates for your job. + It is possible to control how much water goes down the drain by selecting the appropriate load size in the washing machine and only doing laundry when you have a full load.

Excessive use of the washing machine in a single day can cause harm to a septic system by denying the waste adequate time to be processed and increasing the likelihood of overflowing the drainage field.

A trash disposal should never be used in the kitchen sink if your home is equipped with an onsite septic tank, according to experts.

You will increase the quantity of solids by up to 50% if you use a disposal, and you will increase the likelihood of clogging the system and causing it to back up.

Generally, a septic tank should be pumped every 3 to 5 years.

Maintaining a septic tank system isn’t that expensive, but digging up and repairing or replacing a system that has failed as a result of carelessness is far more expensive. Some septic systems may require pumping more than once a year, depending on the size of the tank, the number of people living in the home, and the volume of wastewater generated. It is possible that other systems will be able to go 5 years between septic pumpings. In order to prolong the life of your septic system, it is advised that you consult with a professional every 3 to 5 years on an average basis.

Search online for “septic tank pumping near me” to discover a specialist that can assist you in keeping your septic system in good working order and extending its life.

Link up with reputable professionals in your region and obtain free, no-obligation quotations for your project.+

10 Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Septic System

Knowing how to maintain the health of your septic system will help to guarantee that it continues to perform effectively and that its useful life is extended. We’ve compiled a list of useful advice that are based on our more than 50 years of hands-on expertise servicing septic systems around the Lancaster County region. Please read them carefully. Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, we are pleased to provide septic tank pumping, real estate inspections, line opening services and grease trap maintenance throughout the counties of Lancaster and York as well as Berks, Chester, Dauphin, and the neighboring areas.

1.
The gases contained within the tank are poisonous and have the potential to be lethal.
2.
Drained fields that have become clogged are the most common source of septic system problems and failures.
3.
Because of the number of people living in your home at the time of the system’s installation, your system was built to manage a specific volume of water.

4. Conserve WaterBy reducing the amount of water that enters the system, less agitation occurs inside the tank, which helps to retain solid waste at the bottom of the tank. Keeping the sediments in the tank helps to extend the life of the drainfield. Remember to keep this in mind.

Showers use far less water than baths. Front-loading washers use around one-third less water than top-loading washers.

5. Pay Attention to the Product Labels. Make certain that they are not harmful to your septic system. There are several that will be classified as “Septic System Friendly,” but bear in mind that there is no such thing as a “Flushable” wipe. 6. Make use of the strainer that comes with your kitchen sink. And, if you have a waste disposal, use it only when absolutely necessary! Disposal of waste in a septic tank might result in an increase of up to 50% in the quantity of solids in your tank. Figure out where your septic tank and drainfield are in relation to one another.

Save time and money by being aware of the precise location of your tank and drainfield, so that when your expert arrives to tank your pump, they will know exactly where to begin. Prevent plants, bushes, roots, storm water runoff, and standing water from clogging your drainfield by following these guidelines. These will cause harm to or interfere with the operation of the drainfield, respectively. Driving heavy equipment or cars across your drainfield is strictly prohibited! This has the potential to cause harm to the region and system failure. Whenever possible, insist on pumping the tank through its huge central manhole rather than through the smaller diameter baffle inspection holes. It is not recommended to pump via the inspection ports since it will hinder proper tank cleaning and may cause harm to important tank components. An extension of the manhole riser can be put on the manhole to make it more accessible for pumping, if the manhole is deeply underground. A copy of your new system sewage permit and application should be stored safely in case it is needed in the future

8. Avoid the use of the following harmful products and practices:

Gasoline, oil, and other petroleum products are examples of petroleum products. Grease and oils from the kitchen
Colorants such as paint, paint thinner, or solvents
Products containing high concentrations of phosphorus (which can be found in laundry detergents, cleaning supplies, and other products)
Bleach, concentrated cleansers or antibacterial chemicals in large doses
Products for women, such as makeup removal wipes or baby wipes

9. Recognize when it is necessary to pump your septic tank. The majority of home septic tanks have adequate capacity to store sludge for up to two years. An increase in water use by appliances, toilets, showers, laundry, and other sources might increase the frequency with which your septic tank will need to be pumped. In the event that you operate a home-based company, such as a childcare center, beauty salon, or grooming parlor, you should have your tank pumped more often. 10. Never let your septic tank go more than 5 years without pumping it.

Septic tanks must be emptied on a regular basis in order to maintain the proper mix of healthy bacteria and to eliminate heavy sediments and sludge that accumulates over time.

And if it’s time for your Lancaster, Pennsylvania septic tank to be pumped, give us a call.

Here’s what to know about septic tank cleaning!

The same is true for most things in life: the better you take care of them, the longer they will last you. Your septic tank is not an exception to this rule. Because more than one in every five families in the United States uses an aseptic system, it is critical to learn how to properly maintain them. Septic tanks may be an excellent method to save money while also eliminating effluent from your property. Tanks, on the other hand, must be periodically examined in order to function effectively.

Check the literature that came with your system to discover what the recommended frequency of septic tank cleaning is.

We hope you find this information useful.

How Often Should A Tank Be Cleaned?

The majority of homeowners begin by inquiring how frequently they should clean their tank.

The answer is that it is dependent on the situation. Generally speaking, a household system should be inspected and evaluated for cleaning every two to three years on average. Septic cleaning, on the other hand, will be dependent on the following factors:

What is the number of persons that dwell in your house
The quantity of wastewater that is produced
What is the capacity of your septic tank?

You have a certain number of people living in your house. It is the quantity of wastewater that is produced. In relation to the size of your septic tank

How Can I Extend the Time Between Septic Tank Cleanings?

Do you want to increase the amount of time that passes between septic tank cleanings? Take a look at the service report you received. This might provide insight into how much water your home consumes on a regular basis. Increased water efficiency can enhance the overall performance of your system by minimizing the quantity of wastewater that enters it at any one point in time. Lower stress on your tank implies a lower risk of failure and a longer period of time between cleaning appointments. Simple measures to reduce water use include the following:

Installing toilets and showerheads with high-efficiency flushing mechanisms
Putting leaks and drips back together
Washing machine usage should be spread out

Also, make certain that waste materials are disposed of correctly. Keep in mind that everything that makes its way down your drains will have an impact on the frequency with which your septic system will require repair.

Can I Handle Septic Cleaning on My Own?

Make certain that all waste materials are disposed of correctly. Recall that everything that makes its way down your drains will have an impact on the schedule for maintaining your septic system.

Five Simple Tips to Extend the Life of a Septic System

We’ve written a lot on this site about the need of maintaining, cleaning, pumping, and eventually replacing your septic tank and system. As much as we urge that you contact our offices if you have any questions or concerns about your septic system, it’s also a good idea to keep a few best practices handy in case you need to quickly and simply extend the life and health of both your septic tank and your septic system. Here are five things to keep in mind when it comes to keeping your septic system running well.

1. Avoid Draining Water Into Your Drainfield.

Although it may seem apparent, the more liquid that flows into your drain field, the more pressure you place on your leech system and the overall health of your drain field in general. The solution is simple: create alternate runoff and rainwater management pathways, as well as water management systems for your house or animals. If at all feasible, only water from your house or company sewage system should be allowed to enter your drain field!

2. Conduct Annual Septic Tank Inspections.

A professional should examine your septic system at least once a year, and preferably more often. This might entail a tank or drain test, or it could be as simple as a visual assessment of the most important septic components. Regardless, a professional can provide you with peace of mind regarding the condition of your septic system and identify minor issues before they become major headaches.

3. Conserve Water in Your Home.

However, it differs differently from the previous example1. Conservation of water is necessary in all circumstances, but it is especially critical on a septic system since excess water might overwhelm the drain field or tank. Keep showers short and encourage youngsters to turn off the sink when they aren’t using it to prevent overheating the water (while brushing teeth, for instance).

It can also be beneficial to provide your system with “rest periods” during the day when no water is being delivered to the system. For this reason, we recommend that you do not run your dishwasher or washing machine overnight.

4. Follow the Pumping Schedule.

Everyone knows we say this all the time, but it bears repeating. But it’s critical to remember that septic tanks must be emptied out on a regular basis! Make a check of your homeownership records to ensure that your tank has been pumped and cleaned within the previous five years; if it hasn’t, you should contact us to schedule an appointment. Believe us when we say that frequent septic pumping is the difference between a healthy, functioning system and a malfunctioning plumbing system.

5. Watch What You Flush

That is something that we say all of the time. A frequent pumping out of septic tanks is necessary, but it’s not always easy to remember. Make a check of your homeownership records to see that your tank has been pumped and cleaned within the previous five years; if it hasn’t, you should contact us to arrange for servicing. Please believe us when we say that regular septic pumping may be the difference between having a healthy, functioning system and having plumbing that is deteriorating.

As always if you have any questions about your septic system or septic tank health, don’t hesitate to call us. At Shankster Bros., we’re proud of our products and services, and we’d love to help you!

Septic system maintenance is neither difficult or expensive, and it does not have to be done frequently. The maintenance of a vehicle is comprised of four major components:

Inspect and pump your drainfield on a regular basis
Conserve water
Dispose of waste properly
And keep your drainfield in good condition.

Inspect and Pump Frequently

Inspection of the ordinary residential septic system should be performed by a septic service specialist at least once every three years. Household septic tanks are normally pumped every three to five years, depending on how often they are used. Alternative systems that use electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be examined more frequently, typically once a year, to ensure that they are in proper working order. Because alternative systems contain mechanical components, it is essential to have a service contract.

The size of the household
The total amount of wastewater produced
The amount of solids present in wastewater
The size of the septic tank

Service provider coming? Here is what you need to know.

• The total amount of wastewater produced by a household The amount of solids in wastewater is measured in cubic meters. a measure of the size of the septic tank

Use Water Efficiently

In a normal single-family house, the average indoor water consumption is about 70 gallons per person, per day, on average. A single leaking or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water each day, depending on the situation. The septic system is responsible for disposing of all of the water that a residence sends down its pipes. The more water that is conserved in a household, the less water that enters the sewage system. A septic system that is operated efficiently will operate more efficiently and will have a lower chance of failure.

Toilets with a high level of efficiency. The usage of toilets accounts for 25 to 30% of total home water use. Many older homes have toilets with reservoirs that hold 3.5 to 5 gallons of water, but contemporary, high-efficiency toilets consume 1.6 gallons or less of water for each flush. Changing out your old toilets for high-efficiency versions is a simple approach to lessen the amount of household water that gets into your septic system. Aerators for faucets and high-efficiency showerheads are also available. Reduce water use and the volume of water entering your septic system by using faucet aerators, high-efficiency showerheads, and shower flow restriction devices. Machines for washing clothes. Water and energy are wasted when little loads of laundry are washed on the large-load cycle of your washing machine. By selecting the appropriate load size, you may limit the amount of water wasted. If you are unable to specify a load size, only complete loads of washing should be performed. Washing machine use should be spread throughout the week if at all possible. Doing all of your household laundry in one day may appear to be a time-saving strategy
Nevertheless, it can cause damage to your septic system by denying your septic tank adequate time to handle waste and may even cause your drainfield to overflow. Machines that have earned theENERGY STARlabel consume 35 percent less energy and 50 percent less water than ordinary ones, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Other Energy Star appliances can save you a lot of money on your energy and water bills.

Properly Dispose of Waste

Everything that goes down your drains, whether it’s flushed down the toilet, ground up in the trash disposal, or poured down the sink, shower, or bath, ends up in your septic system, which is where it belongs. What you flush down the toilet has an impact on how effectively your septic system functions.

Toilets aren’t trash cans!

Your septic system is not a garbage disposal system.

A simple rule of thumb is to never flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Never flush a toilet:

Cooking grease or oil
Wipes that are not flushable, such as baby wipes or other wet wipes
Photographic solutions
Feminine hygiene items Condoms
Medical supplies such as dental floss and disposable diapers, cigarette butts and coffee grounds, cat litter and paper towels, pharmaceuticals, and household chemicals such as gasoline and oil, insecticides, antifreeze, and paint or paint thinners

Toilet Paper Needs to Be Flushed! Check out this video, which demonstrates why the only item you should flush down your toilet are toilet paper rolls.

Think at the sink!

Your septic system is made up of a collection of living organisms that digest and treat the waste generated by your household. Pouring pollutants down your drain can kill these organisms and cause damage to your septic system as well as other things. Whether you’re at the kitchen sink, the bathtub, or the utility sink, remember the following:

If you have a clogged drain, avoid using chemical drain openers. To prevent this from happening, use hot water or a drain snake
Never dump cooking oil or grease down the sink or toilet. It is never a good idea to flush oil-based paints, solvents, or huge quantities of harmful cleansers down the toilet. Even latex paint waste should be kept to a bare minimum. Disposal of rubbish should be avoided or limited to a minimum. Fats, grease, and particles will be considerably reduced in your septic tank, reducing the likelihood of your drainfield being clogged.

Own a recreational vehicle (RV), boat or mobile home?

If you have ever spent any time in an RV or boat, you are undoubtedly familiar with the issue of aromas emanating from sewage holding tanks.

The National Small Flows Clearinghouse’s Septic System Care hotline, which may be reached toll-free at 800-624-8301, has a factsheet on safe wastewater disposal for RV, boat, and mobile home owners and operators.

Maintain Your Drainfield

The National Small Flows Clearinghouse’s Septic System Care hotline, which may be reached toll-free at 800-624-8301, has a fact sheet on safe wastewater disposal for RV, boat, and mobile home owners and operators.

Parking: Do not park or drive on your drainfield at any time. Plan your tree plantings so that their roots do not grow into your drainfield or septic system. An experienced septic service provider can recommend the appropriate distance for your septic tank and surrounding landscaping, based on your specific situation. Locating Your Drainfield: Keep any roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainfall drainage systems away from the drainfield area. Excess water causes the wastewater treatment process to slow down or halt completely.