Why Does.Commy Septic Tank Have A Cleanout? (Solution)

A lateral sewer line is the pipe which connects your home’s sewer lines to the municipal sewers or your septic tank. Having a sewer clean out enables you to keep the lines clear and drain water if a backup occurs.

Why is my septic tank full after pumping it?

  • (We Have A Fix) Pumping a septic tank is dirty and necessary work, but it can be frustrating when it quickly becomes full again. When your septic tank becomes full again right after pumping it, it can be a sign that there is something wrong with the drain field.

What is the septic cleanout for?

From there, the sewage runs out of the house and into the county sewage system or a septic tank. Stuff happens, though, such as clogs of a dozen different types stopping a pipe from allowing waste water through. A sewer cleanout allows a snake or a hydrojetting tool to disperse the clog and get things running again.

Should there be water in my septic cleanout?

If the water is standing in the pipe or overflows out the cleanout, then you know that the problem is from that point out. At this point you can either call your favorite septic company, or dig up the tank lids yourself and check the water level and solids content in the tank.

Can you pump septic tank through cleanout?

No. Even if a hose could fit down the cleanout, this still would not provide a thorough cleaning. The tank should be pumped from the actual access lid(s) on the tank, which are usually buried 6-12 inches below the surface of the ground.

Where are Cleanouts required?

A cleanout is only required on the building drain as it is defined in Chapter 2: Building Drain – “That part of lowest piping of a drainage system which receives the discharge from soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside the walls of the building and conveys it to the building sewer beginning two feet outside the

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?

Why is my cleanout full of water?

The sewer cleanout is often found inside your basement or right outside your house. If you pull off the cap and see standing water inside the sewer cleanout, that’s also indicative of a blocked sewer drain.

Should sewer cleanout be capped?

Make sure your clean out cap is on. Almost all buildings do. It allows access to the sewer line in case there’s a problem. It’s usually located somewhere between your residence and the street. The cleanout cap is simply the part that keeps it covered.

How do I know if my septic line is clogged?

Signs of Septic System Clogging: Water and sewage from toilets, drains and sinks backing up into your home. Bathtubs, showers, and sinks draining slowly. Gurgling sounds present in the plumbing system. Bad odors coming from the septic tank or drain field.

How do you know if your septic tank needs pumping?

Common Signs You Need Septic Tank Pumping Services

  • Slow or Frequently Clogged Drains. Since your septic tank is connected to the entire network of drains throughout your home, your sinks, showers, and even toilets can exhibit signs of a problem.
  • Sewage Backup.
  • Regular Gurgling Noises.
  • Strong and Pungent Odors.

What to do after septic tank is pumped out?

After you have had your septic tank pumped by a trusted septic company, there are some things you can and should do as the septic system owner.

  1. 1) Get on a Schedule.
  2. 2) Take Care of the System.
  3. 3) Know the Parts of Your System.
  4. 4) Check Other Possible Issues.

Can you pump your septic tank too often?

If your septic tank is pumped too often, that bacteria will have no place to go but out into the drain field, which can lead to clogs and failures. So unless your septic tank’s sludge and scum levels reach certain thresholds, it’s actually beneficial to leave the septic tank alone.

How many Cleanouts should a house have?

For every house, there’s usually only one sewer cleanout Ideally, all houses should have a main sewer cleanout. But a few don’t, while some larger houses can have as many as three. Whenever there is a blockage in your main drain line, this is the plumbing fitting to look for.

Do urinals require Cleanouts?

(CPC 707.4) (UPC 707.4), In commercial space, a cleanout is required to be installed above the fixture connection fitting for each urinal regardless the location of the urinal in the building as long as it is located at the floor level.

Do vent pipes need Cleanouts?

Re: Do dry vents need cleanouts? in the case of an island vent, yes it is required. it is not required for a simple dry vent but it is a good idea.

COMMON PROBLEMS — JT’s SEPTIC

You should examine the sewer cleanout on the exterior of the home if you are hearing gurgling and all of the house fixtures are clogged. This is often a black 3-4 in color “inch ABS pipe with a threaded cap is available. Remove the cap (WARNING: BE CAREFUL! (WARNING: IT MAY CONTAIN SOME PRESSURE!) : Assuming the sewage line is completely dry, you will have a clog inside the home plumbing, directly in front of the cleanout valve. Make a phone call to a plumber and have them rooter the line. Sewer line cameras are available from several rooter/plumbing businesses.

You have two options at this point: call your preferred septic provider or pull up the tank lids yourself and check the water level and solids content in the tank yourself.

Most tanks erected after January 2001 include a filter that has to be cleaned at least once a year (we clean filters—please call us).

We’ll even notify you once a year when it’s time to clean your filters!).

It’s likely that you have a blockage in your sewage system.

GURGLES

You should examine the sewer cleanout on the exterior of the home if you hear gurgling and all of your house fixtures are clogged up. Most of the time, this is a black 3 or 4 “The pipe is made of ABS and has a threaded end cap. Removing the cap (WARNING: BE CAREFUL! IS IT POSSIBLE THAT IT WILL CONTAIN PRESSURE?) : Assuming the sewage line is completely dry, you will have a clog within the home plumbing, directly in front of the cleanout. In order to have the line rooter, contact a plumber. sewer line cameras are available from some rooter/plumbing businesses.

You have two options at this point: call your preferred septic provider or dig up the tank lids yourself and examine the water level and solids content within the tank yourself.

The vast majority of tanks erected after January 2001 feature a filter that has to be cleaned at least once every year (we clean filters— To schedule a filter cleaning, please contact us right away.

A blockage in the sewage pipe is most likely the source of your problem. We can assist you if your septic tank is backing up. Contact us now!

ODORS

If you are experiencing unpleasant odors within your home, such as rotten eggs, it is likely that a trap or vent inside your home is not venting correctly. Call your plumber right away since these gases are harmful to both people and animals!

ODORS OUTSIDE IN THE YARD

At times, the smells emanating from the roof vents will seep into the yard due to meteorological conditions. Make use of a plumber to elevate the roof vents and/or to place a charcoal filter in the vents, as needed. It’s important to remember that your septic tank is vented via the roof.

SURFACING IN THE YARD

If you notice effluent appearing in your yard, contact your septic service provider immediately. If you see this, it indicates that your leach line has failed and you should get help right away.

HEAVY SOLIDS- OVERDUE FOR PUMPING

Contrary to common perception, you DO need to have your septic tank pumped on a regular basis. Pumping maintenance should be performed on a regular basis, otherwise your system will get overwhelmed with solid waste and eventually cause damage to your leach lines. DON’T MAKE THIS HAPPEN TO YOU! This is an extreme example of a tank that is overflowing. There is sewage flowing from the tank access holes and into the yard!

grease build up in sewer pipes

Fats and grease should never be flushed down the toilet or sink. They have the potential to harden the lines and cause failure; they have the potential to generate an excessive buildup of the floating scum layer in the septic tank; and they have the potential to go into the disposal regions and adjacent soils and completely block the system off. A shattered lid can pose a serious threat to both animals and children. It is conceivable that they will fall through the cracked or broken lids and will not be noticed until it is too late to save themselves.

crushed or settled pipe

This is the second most prevalent problem we notice in septic systems that are less than 10 years old. In addition to blocking flow, loose fill soil surrounding the tank is causing a backup into the house since it is pulling the pipe with it as it settles. We have even observed instances when contractors installing new systems do not correctly pack the fill earth below the pipe, resulting in pipe settlement on systems that have not been utilized or have only been used for a short length of time (see below for an example).

SEWER OUTLET PROGRESSION

When it comes to modern septic systems, this is the most typical issue we encounter. Take note of the fact that the unsupported outlet pipe is being driven down by settling dirt. Watch as the water level in the tank rises, forcing the flow of water in the inflow sewage line to slow. This will eventually result in a clog in the inflow sewer line at some point. The solids flowing down from the house will not be able to enter the tank correctly because of the high water level.

examples of settled sewer pipes:

INSTALLATION OF A TANK AND/OR REPAIR OF SEWER PIPESTHE “POLY” PIPEIMAGES BELOW PROVIDE AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT PIPENOTTO USES WHEN INSTALLING A TANK AND/OR REPAIR OF SEWER PIPES However, despite the fact that this grade of sewer pipe is less expensive at the time of purchase, it might end up costing you a lot of money in the long run!

settled inlet sewer pipe on unused system:

Even if the septic system has not been utilized in some time, it is conceivable that problems will be discovered during the inspection process. Pipes might settle on unoccupied ground and in yards as a result of faulty installation and/or automobiles and/or ATVs running over the pipes without realizing they are there. It may be beneficial to all parties to have a skilled inspector take a look at the system and diagnose any concerns, even though the County does not require an examination on an underused system before transferring ownership.

Roots growing in and around the septic tank:

In addition to disrupting the system by clogging or destroying drainage and distribution lines, tree roots can also enter the tank, causing it to leak. Foul odors, poor drainage, and patches of vegetation in the leach field are just a few of the signs that you may have a root problem.

ERODED BAFFLES

Solids are kept in the septic tank and away from the disposal area with the use of concrete baffles. Using baffles to reduce agitation of wastewater entering the septic tank and prevent particles from escaping the tank and entering the drainfield, baffles can assist avoid drainfield damage and extend the life of the drainfield. If the baffles are broken, missing, or have never been placed, the drainfield’s life expectancy will be reduced significantly. Baffle repair normally entails the placement of a plastic tee at the end of the sewer pipes to prevent them from clogging.

orangeburg sewer pipes

Orangeburg pipe was made in Orangeburg, New York, from 1860 to 1970, and was utilized to plumb numerous septic and wastewater systems throughout Yavapai County during that time period. Orangeburg pipe is produced from rolled tar paper (wood pulp that has been sealed with hot pitch) and was considered a low-cost alternative to metal, particularly after World War II, because of its flexibility and durability. In fact, the pipe itself is so soft that professionals might cut it with a knife during the installation process!

Orangeburg, on the other hand, is known for degrading over time (it has a 50-year lifespan at the most) and deforming when subjected to pressure.

If the septic system is approved, Orangeburg will normally be stated on the permits as the material for the inlet and/or outflow pipe material, respectively.

Sewer Clean Out for Residential Homes 101

a wooded trail / Photo courtesy of Fotolia Septic system failures can be prevented by utilizing a variety of fail-safes in modern plumbing. Your home is well-protected against sewage backups, with everything from drain traps to sump pumps and vent pipes.

The sewage clean out is an extremely vital component of this system, and you should be aware of its existence. Despite its harmless look, having one or more clean outs in your home’s sewage line may have a significant impact on both the health of your sewer line and the health of your wallet.

What is a Sewer Clean Out?

In most cases, the sewer clean out is a capped pipe that is positioned on or near your property line and connects to the lateral sewage line. In plumbing, a lateral sewer line is a pipe that links the sewage lines in your house to either the municipal sewer system or your septic tank. Septic waste can back up into drains when the lateral becomes blocked, causing a nuisance as well as potential health risks for anyone who are exposed to it. Maintaining your sewer pipes and draining water in the event of a backup are two important benefits of having a clean out.

See also:  What To.Do Over Flow Septic Tank? (Solution)

How to Find the Sewer Clean Out

The sewer clean out is a tiny, capped conduit that protrudes from the ground surface. Unfortunately, finding it is not always straightforward. The fact that many homes have several clean outs and, in some rare circumstances, the clean out is actually placed within the house just adds to the complexity of the situation. The methods that follow should assist you in finding the clean out more quickly.

  1. The Sidewalk Should Be Checked– In many localities, the location where your lateral joins the municipal sewer line is indicated on the sidewalk. Along the curb and sidewalk, look for a letter ‘S’ that has been stamped or painted. If you come across this marker, you may easily visualize a straight line from the mark to your house, where the lateral may be located if you look closely. In certain situations, you may even be fortunate enough to come upon a clean out in the neighborhood of where you are looking. Search Near Your Foundation– In many circumstances, locating the sewer clean out near the road is impractical, or the home’s former owners elected to have more than one sewer clean out built. In these cases, you should search near your foundation. When you have a septic system in place, sewer clean outs are also typically positioned close to the home’s location. If you are more than three feet from the foundation, you will most likely find the cap anywhere between the road or septic tank and the point at which your home’s sewage line exits the foundation and enters the ground
  2. Look for extra clean outs inside– Some homes, particularly older ones, may have clean outs that are either hidden within the structure or protrude from the exterior walls of the structure. Check the basements, crawl spaces, and attic for probable vent pipe sites along with the vent pipe. Most of the time, indoor sewer clean outs will look to be a junction with one side of the Y or T shaped intersection being capped. These are useful for keeping your indoor pipelines in good condition, even though they are not required.

What if the Property Lacks a Sewer Clean Out?

It is possible that older properties may not have a sewer clean out. The latter is particularly true if one is not obligated to do so by municipal or state plumbing regulations. It is typically preferable to have one installed in such situations. Sometimes your home has a clean out that has just been covered up by dirt, which is another situation. If you suspect the house has a clean out but have been unable to identify it, you may want to conduct some light digging along the ground where you assume the clean out should be in order to locate it.

Benefits of a Sewer Clean Out

While having a sewage clean out is mandated by law in certain jurisdictions, if you have an older property or live in a state where they are optional, you may find yourself without one. There are, however, various advantages to having a clean out installed on your home, including the following:

Lower Maintenance Costs

The clean out gives you direct access to the sewage lateral on your property’s property. This means that a plumbing professional may monitor the water flow from each individual faucet in your home to verify that there are no blockages or other pipe concerns during their monthly maintenance visits.

Cheaper and Easier Cleaning

When it comes to cleaning your sewage lines, a plumber would normally have to remove your toilet or perhaps climb onto the roof to do so. They will have easier access to the sewage lateral if they have a sewer clean out performed. Because of the time and effort savings, you will have a lower overall bill.

Protects Your Landscaping

In order to clean your sewage pipes, a plumber would normally have to remove your toilet or possibly climb onto your roof. They will have much easier access to the sewage lateral if they have a sewer clean out performed for them. Your bill will be less expensive as a result of the time and work you have saved.

BackflowPrevention

It can also be used as an external drain if a large amount of blockage is encountered.

Taking the clean out cap off will allow you to drain the extra water, which will save your property from flooding. When there is an issue with the municipal sewer that is forcing water back up into your lateral, this may also be beneficial.

How to Install a Sewer Clean Out

It is necessary to complete many steps in order to install a clean out. Depending on the circumstances, your local municipality may provide programs to assist with the cost of installation, particularly in situations where a sewer clean out was not previously required by code. Before you begin, make sure you check for any available programs or grants, as well as any necessary permissions or licenses. It is also recommended to get expert assistance if you do not have prior experience splicing or installing sections of pipe in order to prevent making costly blunders.

Choosing a Clean Out Type

The first and most important step before starting any work is to choose the sort of sewer clean out you will be using. There are three alternatives accessible at the present time: Double Clean Out– The double clean out is the most common type of clean out used in contemporary installations. It contains two shafts that link to the lateral pipe in a ‘U’ configuration, making it the most common type of clean out used in modern installations. The cap that is closest to your home allows for simple access to the city end of the lateral, but the cap that is closest to the street allows you to preserve the house end of the lateral (see illustration).

Despite its T design, the test tee clean out provides access to both ends of the lateral, but it can be difficult to use for clearing obstructions owing to a 90 degree angle at the intersection.

Excavation and Installation

A segment of pipe will need to be excavated in order to find your lateral line. This can be accomplished using either conventional hand tools or leased equipment, with caution to avoid damaging the lateral pipe. As soon as you have completely exposed the required area of the pipe, you should measure out the length of pipe that will be removed. The type of cutting equipment you’ll need will depend on the material that your lateral pipe is constructed of. Once the undesirable portion has been removed, you will be able to measure, cut, and install the new junction section in its place.

Most of the time, it’s advisable to put a container box around the top to keep it from being overgrown or buried too quickly.

Professional Cleaning Cost with a Sewer Clean Out

Even while cleaning your own lateral line may appear to be a cost-effective choice, there is always the possibility of causing damage to the pipes. A professional plumber can complete the task more efficiently and at a lower cost if they have access to the sewage system through a sewer clean out. As a result, they use less tools and less effort than if they were required to dig up your yard or snake the lateral from an interior location of your property. With a basic estimate range of $99 to $900 and an overall average of $288, HomeAdvisorgives provides a reliable service.

When it comes to costs, CostHelper gives more specific estimates, with an estimated cost of snaking your lateral ranging from $148 to $900, with an average cost of $410.

Additional costs will include a video examination of the line, which will cost between $100 and $800.

Some plumbing businesses may quote you a fixed charge but then urge you to tack on extra services in order to raise the total cost of the job. Make sure to look around extensively for the best combination of quality and price before making your decision.

where is my septic cleanout?

Everything else that goes into a septic system, aside from waste water, should be contained within the tank itself. That is precisely what the tank is for. Sand and other heavy particles will sink to the bottom of the container, while sludge, grease, and other substances will float to the top. All of these “solids” should be removed at least once every five years, if not more frequently. It is recommended that the waste water only be discharged from the tank into a small distribution box and then to all of the perforated drainfield lines in the system.

  • A simple system in this location consists of a 1,000-gallon tank, a d-box, and 210 feet of drainfield line for up to three or four bedrooms.
  • The soil type and usage decide how much additional drainfield length is required.
  • If they were coming from a tank, the stench coming from a tank would be substantially greater than the stink coming from the other end of a drainfield line.
  • Mike

Septic Tank Clean-Out 101

Septic tanks of various shapes and sizes are pumped out by John Kline Septic Services. From residential to commercial to municipal work, there is something for everyone. Maintaining your septic tank is essential, whether you’re in need of a clean-out or you simply want to understand more about the procedure. To learn more, continue reading or contact us now to arrange service. We provide same-day service for emergencies, and our technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Always In order to ensure that your septic tank gets cleaned out through the largest available opening, Your septic tank or system may have more than one entry point, depending on the type of tank or system you have installed.

  • This is normally covered with a cement lid or manhole cover that is 18-24 inches in diameter and is often raised to grade with an extension.
  • It also makes it difficult to completely clean out the tank, therefore it’s critical to ensure that your tank is well cleaned from the primary entry.
  • In spite of the fact that we recommend that you have your tank pumped out every two to three years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people living in your home, you may be able to extend the period between clean-outs without suffering any difficulties.
  • When it comes to septic tank cleaning, we recommend that you never go more than FIVE years between cleanings to ensure everything is operating correctly and that your tank is filtering out waste in the appropriate manner.
  • Ensure that your septic tank is easily accessible before scheduling your septic clean-out.
  • Make a notation on your manhole cover or access port if it is hidden by your landscaping so that your technician can easily locate the cleanout when he or she arrives on site.
  • Simply inquire or contact us in advance to inquire about the possibility of installing a riser at the time of your septic pumping.

Are you prepared to get your septic tank cleaned? We provide business and residential septic pumping services in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and the adjacent areas, including York, Lebanon, Berks, Chester, and Dauphin counties, as well as the surrounding areas. Make a call right now at 717-898-2333.

There’s a Backup: Plumbing or Septic Tank Problem? [Video]

Published onWhen your plumbing backups and enters your home, it can be difficult to determine if you should call a plumber or an experienced septic repair company. Despite the fact that plumbers and septic maintenance providers appear to deal with the same types of septic system problems, the truth is that these two businesses do not overlap; a plumber does not have the knowledge or equipment necessary to fix septic systems, and we are not equipped to deal with plumbing emergencies. This short video from Chad provides some pointers on how to determine whether to contact a septic system maintenance company like Van Delden or a plumber when your plumbing starts to back up.

See also:  How Many Gallonsis My Septic Tank? (Question)

It is the short PVC pipe with detachable cap that protrudes from the ground between your house and your septic tank, and it is responsible for cleaning up the septic system.

  1. Alternatively, if there is no backup in the septic cleanout, we recommend that you contact a plumber since this is an indication that the wastewater from your residence is not making it to the cleanout. Back-up from the cleanout might be caused by either the septic system or an obstruction between the cleanout and the tank if the cleanout does not contain any water. A plumber is likely to be required in this situation, and a septic maintenance company is also likely to be required
  2. In this scenario, the odds are 50/50.

Check your septic tank’s liquid level

You may also peek straight into your septic tank to see whether the liquid level is normal or excessive if your tank is accessible or if you are ready to dig up the tank’s cover to access the tank. A normal liquid level indicates that you should contact a plumber, while an overfilled tank indicates that you should contact a septic firm.

Your septic system’s age can be a factor

Because there is no cleanout or means to monitor the liquid levels in your septic tank, there is no way to tell for certain which service is required; nevertheless, the age of your septic system can assist you identify who you should contact for the problem at hand. The typical lifespan of a septic system is around 25 years, depending on how well it is maintained and how frequently it is used. You may want to try hiring a plumber first before calling a septic system maintenance company if your system is more recent.

  • Are you experiencing issues with your septic tank?
  • We promise there will be no sales pitches, only straightforward answers to your septic system inquiries and concerns.
  • Over the course of 80 years, Van Delden Wastewater Systems has proven itself to be the premier Wastewater System provider, supplying San Antonio, Boerne, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country with services you can rely on today and in the future.
  • (Boerne).

How to Care for Your Septic System

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 frequency with which a septic tank is pumped is influenced by four key factors:

  • 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.

When you contact a septic service provider, he or she will inspect your septic tank for leaks as well as the scum and sludge layers that have built up over time. Maintain detailed records of any maintenance work conducted on your septic system. Because of the T-shaped outlet on the side of your tank, sludge and scum will not be able to escape from the tank and travel to the drainfield region. A pumping is required when the bottom of the scum layer or the top of the sludge layer is within six inches of the bottom of the outlet, or if the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the bottom of the outlet.

In the service report for your system, the service provider should mention the completion of repairs as well as the condition of the tank.

An online septic finder from the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) makes it simple to identify service specialists in your region.

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

It is critical that you maintain the integrity of your drainfield, which is a component of your septic system that filters impurities from the liquid that emerges from your septic tank once it has been installed.

Here are some things you should do to keep it in good condition:

  • 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.

Pumping (Cleaning Out a Septic Tank)

The majority of residential septic tanks need to be cleaned every three to five years. When solids fill between one-third and one-half of the tank, it is necessary to pump the tank. If this occurs, the only way to determine when it does is to have your tank inspected by an experienced septic contractor. When the following situations occur, the contractor will propose that a qualified septic pumper be hired:

  • There is a 6 inch gap between the bottom of the scum (grease) layer and that of the bottom of the outlet tee
  • And a 12 inch gap between the top of the sludge layer and the top of the outlet tee.

After the tank has been pumped, there is no need to “reseed” it with new material. Seeding is the process of promoting excellent bacterial growth by introducing substances such as yeast, dung, or dead animals. The Department of Health and Human Services does not propose seeding the system since the sheer act of utilizing the system will give all of the germs necessary to ensure that the system functions properly. Yeast, dung, meat, and dead animals will not aid in the development of the colony of bacteria in the tank any quicker than they already are.

General Advice on Septic Tank Pumping Frequency

  • A single tenant has a pump that has to be replaced every 12 years
  • Two people have a pump that needs to be replaced every 6 years
  • Four inhabitants have a pump that needs to be replaced every 3 years. The number of inhabitants is six, and the pump is replaced every two years. The number of inhabitants is 8
  • The pump is replaced once a year.
  • A single tenant has a pump that has to be replaced every 12 years
  • Two people have a pump that needs to be replaced every 6 years
  • Four occupants have a pump that needs to be replaced every three years. 6 people live there
  • The water is pumped every two years. — Pumping every year for a total of 8 residents.
  • Pump every 19 years for one resident
  • One pump every nine years for another resident
  • Four pumps every four years for the remaining inhabitants
  • And one pump every four years for the remaining occupants. A pump is required for each of the following numbers of residents: 6 for every 3 years
  • 8 for every 2 years.

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Septic Tank Alerts Septic Tank Alerts

SEPTIC PROBLEMS – Learn about the warning signs

Toilets that gurgle, toilets that are a little difficult to flush, and water that rises in low portions of plumbing, such as shower stalls, are all symptoms of a failing septic system. Nonetheless, if you are suffering backup or a septic problem, you must know what to do immediately in order to prevent destroying your floor coverings and walls. Please contact us at 561 262 0099.

Step One:

  1. If you have a two-way clean out on the outside of your house, make sure to open it up! Check to check if there is any standing water in the pipe. If there is visible water in the tank, the problem is with the septic tank. Contact a septic tank contractor in your area. It’s possible that you have a plumbing problem if you remove your two clean out caps and there is no water in the pipe when you do so. If you don’t already have one, install a two-way clean out and make a note of where it is located.
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Step Two:

  1. Check the water level in the septic tank by opening it on the intake side. The input pipe itself is frequently obstructed for a variety of reasons
  2. They include but are not limited to If the water level rises over the input pipe, it is possible that a problem may arise in the drain field region.

Step Three:

  1. Occasionally, by pumping the tank, these issues will resolve themselves
  2. Look for an outlet filter if you have one. In order to prevent particles from entering your drain field, outlet filters are installed. They are effective in protecting your drain field, but they require regular maintenance. Sit down and consult with a competent specialist if there is no outlet filtration device installed and the water is not draining into the drain field or leach field. There are times when there is an obstruction in the drain field, and other times when the system is overloaded. In or near the drainfield region, never dig since digging might rip the delicate filter fabric and create serious difficulties.

Step Four

  1. If your drain field is no longer accepting water, it may be necessary to replace it. This occurs when roots infiltrate the system, bio-mat accumulates beneath the leach bed, sediments and sludge block the leach lines, or when daily consumption exceeds the capacity of the drain field to absorb it.

Checking Water Consumption

  1. The average indoor water use in a normal single-family home is about 70 gallons per person per day, according to the USDA. Toilets that leak can waste more than 200 gallons of water every day. If you have a toilet that runs occasionally, try putting food coloring in the upper bowl and seeing if it goes into the toilet bowl
  2. If it does, adjust the flapper valve or the toilet settings. Although a reverse osmosis unit discharges water while it is producing water, the amount of water discharged may not appear to be significant, yet it may saturate a drain field
  3. Examine your water use logs

Visit the Florida Department of Health and Human Services. rot is caused by the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas, which when combined with air and moisture forms an acid that eats away at concrete structures. The lid on the left is in good condition, while the lid on the right has been significantly degraded and is in danger of collapsing if walked on. Crown Rot is a kind of fungal infection. Broken fiberglass lids are extremely hazardous and must be replaced as soon as possible. Drain Field pipe that was exposed, was also loaded with dirt, and was in danger of failing.

Roots will infiltrate the tank and do significant damage.

Roots from a tree growing in the outflow baffle The presence of roots in the septic system

Three Warning Signs That Your Sewer Line is Clogged

1) There are clogs in a number of drains. Check the following plumbing fittings for a solution: Is there a gurgling sound coming from all of their drains when the water backs up in them? It’s likely that you have a clog in your main sewer line. 2) When utilizing plumbing fittings, water might back up in unexpected areas. Carry out the following three steps:

  • Ensure that your toilet is flushed. Water is gurgling up your tub or shower drain, is this the case? The water is attempting to exit, but is being prevented from doing so by a blockage in the sewage system. As a result, it returns to the lowest place, which is normally a shower drain
  • You may use your washing machine to do this. Is the water in your shower drain or toilet starting to overflow? Once again, this indicates that water is attempting to escape but is being prevented from doing so by a clog, forcing it to flow somewhere else. Run the water in your bathroom sink. Is the water in your toilet bowl bubbling or rising? Most likely, you have a blockage in your sewage system.

3) Drainage is available via the sewer cleanout valve. It’s possible that you’re wondering, “What the heck is a sewer cleanout?” What it is is a white pipe with a rubber cover (or, in older homes, a metal “mushroom” cap) that allows for easy access to the sewage line, allowing obstructions to be removed more quickly. To locate the sewer cleanout, examine around the sides, front, and back of your home, as well as maybe near the shrubs. If your home was constructed prior to 1978, it is possible that you will not have a sewer line cleanout.

If sewer water is rushing up and out of the pipe, or if it is standing in the pipe, you have a clogged sewer line, which proves the problem.

One of the first things you should do is turn off the main water supply to your property. To do so, check for the water shutoff valve, which is often placed in the following location:

  • In the basement
  • Behind the water heater
  • In the garage
  • In a water meter box outside your home, near the street

Second, contact a professional plumber who is trained in sewage line cleaning. If a sewage line is clogged, the majority of professional sewer line cleaners will often use a two-step procedure to unclog it:

  1. To unclog the sewer cleanout, feed a drain auger (sometimes known as a “plumber’s snake”) through it until it stops clogging. If this does not work, the plumber may try the following: Inspect and determine what needs to be done next by using a fiber optic sewage line camera.

It is possible that the blockage is caused by the incorrect objects being flushed, or that the pipes are too old to manage the volume of traffic (especially if you have company over). Another possibility is that, if you have an older home with mature trees on your property, the roots of the trees have grown into the subterranean pipes, resulting in a backed-up sewer line. Under normal circumstances, it is difficult to determine the responses when a fiber optic sewage line camera is employed.

How to Tell When Your Septic Tank Needs Emptying [Top 5 Warning Signs]

In the event that you are a homeowner, your septic tank is most likely one of the most vital components of your property. It’s also something you don’t want to think about all of the time, if at all possible. However, even if it is not on your attention at the time, there are several warning signals that may suggest a problem with your septic tank and the need to get it emptied as soon as possible. There is no need to be concerned if you are unsure of when your septic tank needs to be emptied!

The only thing you have to do is know what to look for.

Top 5 Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Emptying

Your septic tank is an important part of your house, and it should be examined on a regular basis for indicators that it may need to be emptied. The likelihood is high that your septic system need maintenance if you observe any of these tell-tale indications in the first place. An overflowing septic tank isn’t always as clear as it first appears! Here are some of the most typical warning signs that you have a septic tank that needs to be cleaned out:

Your Drains Are Taking Forever

Your drains are taking longer to move when you flush the toilet (slow drains), do you notice this when you flush the toilet? Or do you have trouble flushing your toilet? If this is true for all of your toilets and sinks in your home, rather than just one, it is probable that you have something more serious than a clog on your hands. The presence of sluggish drains might be one of the first signs of a septic problem. Make use of a drain cleaner that is safe for septic systems. If this does not make a difference and you still observe that everything is draining slowly, it is likely that your septic tank is full.

Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank

Is there water accumulating on top of your septic tank? Septic tanks that are accumulating water are an indication that they need to be pumped. Because there is nowhere else for the surplus water to go, it collects in your yard. A related issue to keep an eye out for is the overall health of your lawn. If water is accumulating around your septic tank, you may notice that the vegetation surrounding your sewage tank appears to be particularly healthy.

Perhaps you’ve observed an overabundance of weeds or flowers blooming out of the vicinity. This is because to the additional water and nutrients that are being provided to your grass in this location. Occasionally, this occurs prior to the water pooling.

Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard

Have you detected any bad scents in the recent past? Check to see whether they are emanating from your yard, and more especially, from your drainage field. It’s possible that you’re smelling sewage water! We recommend that you call us immediately if you notice any sewage stench. We can examine your septic tank. When your septic tank is nearly full, you will notice a distinct odor. e

You Hear Gurgling Water

In some cases, gurgling water might indicate the presence of a backlog in the making. In the event that you hear the sound of gurgling water coming from your pipes, this might indicate that your tank is becoming backed up and needs to be emptied.

You Have A Sewage Backup

It is every homeowner’s greatest fear to have sewage backing up into their house. If you are experiencing sewage backup, it is likely that your tank has not been completely emptied. This occurs when your waste water is having difficulty draining away from your home. Depending on how the wastewater got into your house, it might come up through your toilet and sink drains, or even your shower drain. Blockages are the root cause of sewage backups. When there is an excessive amount of food waste, septic tanks might become clogged.

It is also possible to cause a septic obstruction by flushing the improper objects down the toilet, such as feminine hygiene products or cat litter, for example.

During a septic tank cleaning, we may eliminate the accumulation of waste.

Atlanta’s1 Trusted Septic Company

The Original Plumber provides service to the Atlanta metro region in Northern Georgia. We provide plumbing services for both business and residential properties. Maintaining your septic tank on a regular basis might help you avoid costly problems down the line. Everything from drain cleaning to sewage line repair is included in our services, so we can take care of all of your needs at the same time! We are familiar with the signs to watch for and can assist you in avoiding any unwanted tank repairs or expenditures.

We place a high importance on integrity and honesty, which is why we give upfront pricing so that there are no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend that you get your septic tank pumped on a regular basis, every three to five years. The Environmental Protection Agency has established this as the standard. Depending on the size of your tank and whether or not you use a garbage disposal, you may need to have your septic tank pumped more regularly. Not only will this service assist you in keeping your septic tank clean and healthy, but it will also allow us to discover any problems before they become a serious issue. Maintaining a routine might assist you in determining when it is necessary to empty your tank.

In the event that you have recently moved into a property and the previous owners did not disclose much information regarding your septic system, give us a call for ourseptic system inspectionservice.

During an inspection, our staff will go over the whole septic system for any potential problems. We can assist you in determining all you need to know and determining whether or not you require maintenance.

What happens if you don’t empty your septic tank?

If you do not empty your septic tank on a regular basis, your waste will eventually become too much for your septic system to handle. Solids accumulate with time, and your tank can only carry a certain amount of them. You run the danger of experiencing a sewage backup as a result of this.

Do all septic tanks need emptying?

The tank in your septic system should be emptied every three to five years, regardless of the type of system you have installed. Septic tanks are constructed in such a way that heavier materials settle near the bottom of the tank, rather than the top. If the sludge layer becomes too thick, the solid waste will begin to seep into your drain field or leach field, causing it to overflow. This can result in obstructions in the drain field, which prevents the liquid from draining into the drainage system.

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