How Far Pipe Into Septic Tank? (Solution)

Inlet ” jsshadow=””>drain fielddrain fieldThe drain field typically consists of an arrangement of trenches containing perforated pipes and porous material (often gravel) covered by a layer of soil to prevent animals (and surface runoff) from reaching the wastewater distributed within those trenches.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Septic_drain_field

Septic drain field – Wikipedia

. The outlet pipe should be approximately 3 inches below the inlet pipe.

The inlet pipe enters the tank perhaps 6 inches below the very top edge of the tank (top edge of the tank to top edge of the inlet hole) and is about 4 inches in diameter. So the bottom of the septic tank inlet opening (and outlet opening) in our theoretical example is about 10 inches from the top of the tank.

How deep is the pipe from the house to the septic tank?

A typical septic tank has a 4-inch inlet located at the top. The pipe that connects to it must maintain a 1/4-inch-per-foot slope toward it from the house. This means that for every 10 feet of distance between the tank and the house, the inlet must be 2 1/2 inches below the point at which the pipe exits the house.

How deep should a sewer pipe be?

On average, trenches should be around 12-24 inches-deep, and wide enough to house your pipe comfortably before filling it in with soil and sod. As we’ve mentioned, in cold weather regions, this will need to be deeper or you’ll have problems with your sewage freezing.

How deep are leach field pipes?

A typical drainfield trench is 18 to 30 inches in depth, with a maximum soil cover over the disposal field of 36 inches.

What is the fall on a 4 inch sewer pipe?

For 4-inch PVC piping and a building sewer less than 50 feet long, the minimum slope is 1 inch in 8 feet, or 1/8-inch per foot, and the maximum is 1/4-inch per foot. For sewers longer than 50 feet, the slope should be 1/4-inch per foot.

How many lids are on a septic tank?

A septic tank installed before 1975 will have a single 24-inch concrete lid in the center of the rectangle. A two-compartment tank installed after 1975 will have two lids of either fiberglass or polyethylene, centered at opposite ends of the rectangle.

Why the inlet pipe in the septic tank is higher than the outlet pipe?

Level the septic tank: The septic tank inlet tee is designed to be higher than the septic tank outlet tee. This helps assure that incoming sewage clears the baffle and enters the tank correctly, while outgoing effluent does not carry along floating solids, scum, or grease (which would clog the drainfield).

What kind of pipe goes from house to septic?

The septic tank should be positioned at least 50 feet from the house proper. ABS or PVC plastic or cast iron pipe can be used to connect the tank to the house drainage system. [We do not recommend using clay pipe nor “orangeburg” pipe.]

Can you put a 90 in a sewer line?

You should design your wastewater pipes in a similar manner, for the most part. It’s a bad plumbing practice to have a hard 90-degree bend in a horizontal drain line that’s buried in a slab or otherwise hidden. All drain lines should have a minimum fall of an eighth of an inch per foot of horizontal run.

How far underground are water pipes?

The general depth of underground water pipes is 12 inches below the frost line in your specific geographical area.

How deep does a water line have to be in the ground?

Water filled pipe should be buried at least 12″ below the maximum expected frost line. It is recommended that thermoplastic piping be run within a metal or concrete casing when it is installed beneath surfaces that are subject to heavyweight or constant traffic such as roadways and railroad tracks.

How deep are plumbing pipes under a slab house?

You will find your sewer lines 12 to 24 inches below the concrete slab in a slab house.

How deep should your septic field be?

Drain Field Depth Generally, a finished bed contains 12 inches of gravel below the pipe and another 2 inches on top. The field is then backfilled with 18 to 30 inches of soil to finish the bed and bring it even with the surrounding ground. The result is a drain field about 3 to 4 feet deep.

Does shower water go into septic tank?

From your house to the tank: Most, but not all, septic systems operate via gravity to the septic tank. Each time a toilet is flushed, water is turned on or you take a shower, the water and waste flows via gravity through the plumbing system in your house and ends up in the septic tank.

How many feet of leach line do I need?

REQUIRED SEPTIC TANK SIZE IN GAL. * A minimum of 150 square feet of trench bottom area is required. ** # gal X soil type multiplier 100 4.285 Note: Maximum length of any leach line is 100 feet. If more than 100 feet is required, then a distribution box with multiple lines will be needed.

How to Connect Pipes to a Septic Tank

Septic tanks are connected to dwellings by four-inch pipes. Image courtesy of dit26978/iStock/Getty Images. Most contemporary septic tanks, whether constructed of concrete or plastic, are divided into two compartments by an internal baffle and equipped with an intake and output port. In most cases, when you first install the tank, each port has a preinstalled 4-inch sanitary tee fitting. You connect the waste line from the building to the inlet fitting and the drain line to the outlet fitting either by gluing it or by using a mechanical flexible coupling to connect the two lines (often referred to as aFernco coupling).

Septic tanks used to have only one chamber in the olden days.

The scum layer contains greases, oils, and other lighter-than-water contaminants that could clog the soil.

Whatever your feelings about the necessity of the tees, they serve as an insurance policy against the failure of the septic tank baffles, and it is smart to have them installed.

In order to keep debris out of the pipes, some plumbers put grates on the top portions of tees.

How to Install Septic Tees

The installation of the tees on the septic tank must be done from the inside of the tank if the tees do not come with the tank. A 4-inch tee is normally firmly secured by predrilled or, in the case of concrete tanks, preformed holes in the tank’s inlet and outflow holes. A bead of butyl or silicone caulk around the perimeter of the tee on both sides of the tank will enough in most cases, but it’s not a terrible idea to apply some in case you do need glue. The top of the tee should have a short piece of tubing attached to it to allow the aperture to extend over the scum layer in the tank, while the bottom of the tee must extend below the scum layer, or around 2 feet below the tee, to allow for proper drainage.

Connecting Inlet and Outlet Pipes

The waste and drain pumps are located in trenches that slope toward and away from the tank, respectively, with a slope ranging between 2 and 10 percent. For a modest slope, it’s fine to glue the pipes straight to the tee; but, if the slope is steep, you need glue a 22 1/2-degree bend onto the tee to make the glue connection completely waterproof. If necessary, the bend can be configured such that it faces upward on the input side and downward on the outflow side. Despite the fact that the pipes fit firmly in the fittings, it is necessary to glue them together.

If you don’t, the tee may become disconnected and fall into the tank, necessitating the need of expert services to repair. A septic tank may be deadly, and falling into one or even peering into one too closely can be fatal. Never attempt to do this repair yourself.

Everything You Need to Know About Your Septic Tank

What is a septic tank, and how does it work? A septic tank is a water-tight container that is typically constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene to prevent flooding (plastic). In fact, it is only one component of the entire septic system, which includes several other components such as a distribution box, pumps, float switches, aerators, filters, and other accessories. Septic systems are used to treat wastewater on-site in many rural and suburban areas that do not have access to centralized sewer systems.

The components of a typical septic tank are depicted in the diagram below.

These are:

The Tank: This is the water-tight tank into which wastewater from your house is sent once it has been collected. A hole, fracture, or any other structural damage should not be present. Access Ports: When a trained pumper comes to clean up your tank, they will utilize an access port. When it comes to tank cleaning, it is critical that the access port be large enough to allow the pumper to move the hose about within the tank properly. A common application for risers is to elevate septic tank access above ground level, eliminating the need to dig up your septic tank every time it has to be pumped. Last but not least, the access port should be securely secured with a child-resistant lid. It is vital for the protection of your family that septic tank lids are securely fastened with screws and that they are not cracked or damaged. Pipes for entering and exiting the septic tank: Wastewater from your house enters the septic tank through the intake pipe. After the particles have settled out, the effluent is discharged from the septic tank through the exit pipe and into the drainage field. There should be roughly 3 inches between the output pipe and the intake pipe. A baffle is fitted on the intake pipe within the tank, and it serves to keep the water out. It provides a variety of functions. Additionally, it helps to avoid the build-up of scum and its backup into the intake pipe It is also important for solids to settle in the tank that the input baffle be properly installed. When wastewater enters the septic tank, it should hit the entrance baffle, which will reduce the flow and prevent the tank from becoming agitated. This permits the contents of the septic tank to remain at rest, allowing the solids to sink to the bottom of the tank. The intake baffle can also prevent odorous odors from entering the sewage line and spreading throughout the home or business
And It is even more crucial than the inlet baffle to have an exit baffle in place because it helps to prevent scum and other particles from flowing directly into the outflow pipe and eventually into the drain field. Gas Deflector/Effluent Filter: As gas bubbles climb to the top of a septic tank, they may bring sediments with them. This is why an effluent filter is used. A gas deflector prevents these solid-carrying gases from entering the output line by preventing them from entering. However, while not every septic tank is equipped with an effluent filter, it is strongly suggested as an additional safety to prevent particulates from entering your drain field.

Any of the above-mentioned components in your septic tank should be checked for damage or missing parts as soon as possible, and the problem should be resolved by a septic system specialist. What is the operation of a septic tank? Each and every drop of wastewater from your home is channeled via a main drainage pipe and into your septic tank. Solids are prevented from entering your drain field by using the septic tank, which is just a settling tank that serves as a filter. Ideally, the water should be kept in the tank for at least one day in order to enable time for the solids to settle.

Heavy materials, such as dirt and digested waste, will sink to the bottom of the tank and form a sludge layer at the bottom of the tank.
Effluent is the term used to describe the liquid that exists between the sludge and scum layers.

It is critical that solids are given adequate time and space to settle before being used.
In fact, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection mandates a minimum capacity of 900 gallons for any new septic tank installations in the state (the table below shows recommended septic tank capacities for different sized homes).
Ideally, you should have your septic tank emptied every two to three years, according to the Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA).

If a drain field has been ruined by a buildup of sediments, it might cost tens of thousands of dollars to rebuild it.
It is crucial to understand that your septic tank must be completely filled with liquid in order to function effectively.
The septic tank diagram shown above depicts the correct operating level of a septic tank in a residential setting.

The result is that whenever more wastewater is added to the tank, an equal volume of effluent will be discharged from the tank and drain into the drain field.
The opposite is true if the liquid level is higher than the outflow line, which may signal a blockage in a line downstream from the septic tank or in the drain field.

If you’re wondering if your septic tank is full, a skilled pumper will consider it “full” once solids have filled one-third of the tank’s capacity. This is the time of year when your septic tank will need to be pumped.

How Your Septic System Works

Underground wastewater treatment facilities, known as septic systems, are often employed in rural regions where there are no centralized sewage lines. They clean wastewater from residential plumbing, such as that produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry, by combining natural processes with well-established technology. A conventional septic system is comprised of two components: a septic tank and a drainfield, often known as a soil absorption field. It is the septic tank’s job to decompose organic matter and to remove floatable stuff (such as oils and grease) and solids from wastewater.

Alternate treatment systems rely on pumps or gravity to assist septic tank effluent in trickling through a variety of media such as sand, organic matter (e.g., peat and sawdust), constructed wetlands, or other media to remove or neutralize pollutants such as pathogens that cause disease, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other contaminants.

Specifically, this is how a typical conventional septic system works:

All of the water that leaves your home drains down a single main drainage pipe and into a septic tank. An underground, water-tight container, often composed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene, serves as a septic system’s holding tank. Its function is to retain wastewater for a long enough period of time to allow particles to sink to the bottom and form sludge, while oil and grease float to the surface and produce scum. Sludge and scum are prevented from exiting the tank and moving into the drainfield region by compartments and a T-shaped outlet. After that, the liquid wastewater (effluent) exits the tank and flows into the drainfield. The drainfield is a shallow, covered hole dug in unsaturated soil that serves as a drainage system. Porous surfaces are used to release pretreated wastewater because they allow the wastewater to pass through the soil and into the groundwater. In the process of percolating through the soil, wastewater is accepted, treated, and dispersed by the soil, finally discharging into groundwater. Finally, if the drainfield becomes overburdened with too much liquid, it can flood, causing sewage to flow to the ground surface or resulting in toilet backups and sink backups. Finally, wastewater percolates into the soil, where it is naturally removed of harmful coliform bacteria, viruses, and nutrients. Coliform bacteria are a kind of bacteria that may be found in the intestines of humans and other warm-blooded animals, with humans being the most common host. As a result of human fecal contamination, it is a sign of this.

The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority has built an animated, interactive model of how a residential septic system works, which you can view here.

Do you have a septic system?

It’s possible that you’re already aware that you have a septic system. If you are not sure, here are some tell-tale symptoms that you most likely are:

You make use of well water. In your home, the water pipe that brings water into the house does not have a meter. In the case of a water bill or a property tax bill, you will see “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged.” It is possible that your neighbors have a septic system

How to find your septic system

You can locate your septic system once you have confirmed that you have one by following these steps:

Taking a look at the “as constructed” drawing of your house
Making a visual inspection of your yard for lids and manhole covers

Getting in touch with a septic system service provider for assistance in locating it

Failure symptoms: Mind the signs!

A bad odor is not necessarily the first indicator of a septic system that is failing to work properly. Any of the following signs should prompt you to seek expert assistance:

Water backing up into the drains of homes and businesses

It is especially noticeable in dry weather that the drainfield grass is bright green and spongy. The presence of standing water or muddy soil near your septic system or in your basement
A strong stench emanating from the area surrounding the septic tank and drainfield

Septic line distance limitations

I wouldn’t recommend using 2 inch pipe for anything other than water drainage. If you’re passing solids through the line, such as in a toilet, use a 3 inch line at the very least. The distance isn’t an issue, but, as everyone else has pointed out, the drop is. You didn’t say how far away this would be, but if you can connect it to your existing system, that would be the cheapest and most convenient option. I’ve always been taught that 3 to 7 percent is the sweet spot, but I’m not going to argue with 2 percent, which seems a little on the shallow side.

Given that the level is 72 inches above ground, the 3 1/2 inch decrease will put you dangerously near to the 5 percent mark.
How far do you have to run to reach the finish line?
In terms of distance, the rule of thumb is to place cleanouts at a distance that is somewhat less than double the distance you can reach with a snake.

Will you ever have to dump an RV or will you need to dump an RV?
There are kits available to assist you if you need to install a collection tank and pump the water uphill.
The discharge pipe’s size will be determined by the type of pump you select.

I’d imagine you’ll need something in the neighborhood of an inch. In order to manage the discharge of 300 RVs, my RV park will have a 3 inch line installed. Septic systems operating under pressure require a significantly smaller pipe than systems operating under gravity. Eddie

How Much Slope for Septic Line?

This page contains information on sitework, including how much slop for a septic line to have. Peter inquires: My builder has recently completed the installation of our septic system, and I’m afraid that he did something incorrectly. The drain field looks to be at a greater height than the tank’s exit, which is consistent with this. My brain doesn’t comprehend how the tank may empty upwards. Is there something I’m overlooking? Answer: Except if you have a mound system, or another pumping system with a dosing chamber and lift pump, you are accurate in assuming that you will require a downhill slope in your sewage pipes, which is not the case.

The leach lines themselves, on the other hand, should be leveled out.
Sewage lines should be sloped downhill to the septic tank and drain field at a rate of at least 1/4 inch per foot of length.

To avoid clogging, steer clear of sags and sudden curves.
The fear is that the water would flow too quickly and leave sediments behind, causing the pipe to clog.
In situations when it is important to carry wastewater uphill, there are several different pumping system types that may be employed.

I would consider getting in touch with the person who created your system to discuss the problem and, if feasible, have them come out and assess the location.
It’s ideal if you can put your complaints in writing and send them to the contractor.
An upward line such as the one you describe will never function effectively.

Also read this article.

When Is the Best Time to Take a Perc Test? How much does a perc test cost? Who Should Be Hired for the Perc Test? After a failed perc test, should you retest? Should I use a Sand Filter with my existing septic system? Examining the condition of the wellSEPTIC SYSTEMView all articles Q and A Index

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By Admin on November 12, 2020 Your efforts to live as environmentally conscious as possible, as a responsible homeowner, are likely already underway, with practices such as recycling, composting, and purchasing energy-efficient equipment among your list of accomplishments. As a septic tank owner, you want to be sure that anything you put into your tank and septic field is causing the least amount of ground contamination as is reasonably practicable. Fortunately, there are a number of modest improvements you can do immediately to make your septic system even more ecologically friendly than it already is.

Have your septic tank inspected and pumped on a regular basis.

A bigger septic tank with only a couple of people living in your house, for example, will not require pumping as frequently as a smaller septic tank or as a septic tank that must manage the waste products of multiple family members will require.
When in doubt about how often to pump your septic tank, consult with a professional for advice.
In addition to locating and repairing any damage, a professional can ensure that the septic field is in good working order and that your septic tank is functional, large enough to handle your family’s waste, and not causing any unwanted pollution in nearby ground water.

Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet or down the toilet.
Items that are not biodegradable are unable to properly decompose in the septic tank and might cause the system to get clogged.
In addition to causing issues in your house, septic system backups can damage ground water in the area surrounding your septic field.

Towels made of paper Products for feminine hygiene Grease or fats are used in cooking.

grinds from a cup of coffee Even if you have a trash disposal, the food scraps that you flush down the drain and bring into your septic system may cause unanticipated harm to your plumbing system.

Food scraps can enhance the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater, which can disturb the natural bacterial balance of the septic tank, among other things.

Water conservation should be practiced.

Exceedingly large amounts of water use will interfere with the normal flow of wastewater from your home into your septic tank.

Limiting the amount of time you spend in the shower and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, as well as purchasing a smaller dishwasher and washing machine that use less water, are all simple strategies to reduce water use in your home.

The following are some basic steps you can take to make your septic system more ecologically friendly: save water, maintain your septic system and tank, and recycle wastewater. To get answers to any of your septic tank-related issues, get in touch with the experts at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.

How to Install a Septic Tank with Drain Line

It is discussed in this article how to set up a septic tank with a drain line. A three-compartment septic tank is covered in detail in this project, which includes all of the processes required to complete the installation. This septic tank has adequate capacity to accommodate 4-6 people, making it an excellent choice for most households. Even if the installation is straightforward, you will need to rent a mini-excavator or, ideally, a backhoe digger to do the job properly. It is important to exercise caution when using detergents, disinfectants, or other acid cleansers since they will interfere with the operation of the bacteria that decompose the waste materials.

A simple explanation for how the system works is that the majority of the trash is transformed into sewage water.

Every two years, you will be required to remove the solids from the system.

The water will then be able to seep into the soil through the gravel layer.

Made from this plan

The construction of the sewage lines from the home to the site of the septic tank is the first step in the project’s development. Excavate the trenches such that the pipes have a 1/8 inch dip each foot of excavation. The pipes must be placed on a bed of sand and then completely covered with sand. The sand will protect the pipes, and it will also serve as an excellent marker for future operations, should it be necessary to dig further trenches. Decide on the position of the septic tank and mark the area with a marker.

Furthermore, the depth of the hole will be decided by the size and placement of the septic tank as well as the location of the sewage line.
We also employed a dumper truck to remove the soil from the site.
Make certain that the sewer pipe has a 1.5 percent slope when it is installed.

We relocated the septic tank with the help of a backhoe digger after securing it with a heavy-duty strap and moving it.
Check to verify that the septic tank intake is compatible with the sewer pipe.
We used a spirit level to ensure that the tank was upright during the installation.

Sand should be poured around the tank.

If you do not fill the tank with water, it will collapse due to the weight of the earth on top of the container.

We will not be constructing a drain field for this project, but rather an 80-foot-long trench.

You may either construct two 40-foot-long trenches or a wide surface area and install three 25-foot-long drain pipes on it.

We connected the header pipe to the septic tank, ensuring that it had a 2 percent slope to prevent backflow.

Because it will move quite swiftly, using a backhoe digger is highly recommendable.

Trenches should be filled with gravel to the point where the drain pipe (which is normally 4′′ in diameter and perforated) has a 1/8′′ per foot slope.

Using a 4′′ layer of gravel, cover the drain pipe and make sure the surface is level.

Geothextile cloth should be used to cover the trench.

Because the fabric prevents the pebbles from becoming mixed with the soil and clogging the drain pipe, it is effective.

At the end of the drain pipe, you must add a vent pipe to provide for proper ventilation.

This also allows for simple access to the drain pipe in the event that it has to be cleaned.

We moved the earth that we had dug back into the trenches with the use of the backhoe’s front loader bucket and a rake.

First and foremost, you must connect the riser to the septic tank.

In order to have easy access to the tank for maintenance and inspection, the top of the riser should be slightly above the level of the surrounding ground.

These sheets are thin and rather stiff, despite their small weight.

As a result, you must first cover the tank with these sheets, followed by a 4′′ layer of dirt on top of that.

The polystyrene sheets must be covered with dirt once they have been laid out on the ground.

Work carefully so that you do not harm the tank.

On the blog, you can also get a comprehensive guide on how to construct a concrete pump house.

Make sure to read the previous articles in the Brick House Construction Series to see what more is in store for you!

We appreciate you taking the time to read our article on how to construct a septic tank with drain line, and we encourage you to go through the rest of our projects. Please spread the word about our articles to your friends by using the social media sharing buttons.

Make sure to contact JT’s Septic as soon as possible! It is possible for us to assist you in diagnosing the problem and determining if it is a plumbing issue or a problem directly connected to your septic system. Wastewater backing up into more than one household fixture (even during dry weather), pooling water or muddy soil around your septic system or in your basement are all signs that your system needs to be checked. If you notice any of the following, contact us to have it checked: a strong odor around the septic tank and/or drainfield

Should I Use Septic Tank Additives?

According to current research, there is no clear proof that these items can prevent septic system failure or that they will improve system function. The addition of compounds to a septic tank will not eliminate the necessity for routine tank cleaning. Septic tank cleansers, rejuvenators, and primers that are promoted as such will not hurt your system, but they will not benefit it either. However, there is already a large amount of bacteria in the tank that will break down waste products, so using enzymes or yeast would not hurt your system at all.

Septic system additives should be avoided, according to the North Dakota State University Agriculture Communication.

-Tank Refueling Station

what are the PVC pipes sticking up in my yard?

Septic tank cleanouts are often located between the home and the septic tank, and they are used to snake the input line from the house to the tank. If the PVC markers are labeled with “JT’s Septic,” they indicate that they are marking the access lids to your septic tank (buried directly under the labels). Alternatively, if the pipes are further away and appear to be arbitrarily arranged in relation to the house or tank, it is possible that they are inspection ports used to check the amount of liquid in the disposal area.

will household cleaning products harm my system?

The majority of specialists believe that the usual use of household cleaning solutions will not harm the system since it will not prevent the activity of bacteria in the tank from taking place as intended. A large amount of some chemicals, on the other hand, may interfere with the breakdown of wastes in the tank or cause the soil treatment area to get clogged. Please remember that the goods you use may ultimately make their way into the groundwater systems in your community.

How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

Most tanks require pumping every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank, the amount of wastewater that flows into the tank on a daily basis, and whether or not the tank is equipped with a trash disposal. The state of Arizona currently does not have any laws requiring maintenance and inspection (with the exception of those pertaining to the sale of a home), but the Environmental Protection Agency and local health departments strongly recommend routine maintenance to help prevent groundwater contamination due to nitrogen, phosphorus, and disease-causing bacteria that can be found in wastewater.

I just had my tank pumped and it already looks full!?!

There is a distinction between being full and being overfull! An empty septic tank will fill up as quickly as you use up the quantity of gallons it can contain in terms of water use. The tank is designed to maintain a liquid level at or near the bottom of the outflow pipe at all times. (that exits into the disposal area). When you look down into your tank, it should appear to be completely filled. It is necessary to hire an expert to assess the quantity of scum and sludge in your tank in order to decide when it is time to pump it out.

Does anyone have to be home to have jt’s pump my septic tank?

We usually advise people to have someone at their house for our service, but it is not mandatory. Our service technicians are quick and fast when it comes to finding and pumping out a problem. We enjoy having a homeowner and/or a Realtor on site for our inspections so that they may discuss any concerns that we may discover. If we happen to miss you during our service, we are more than pleased to accept a credit card payment over the phone.

Does JT’s Septic do leach line work?

At this time, JT’s does not install or do any work on leach lines or disposal locations. We do minor repairs on septic tanks, as well as on the inlet and outlet sewer lines. Not sure if we can assist you? Just give us a call!

Why can’t you pump my septic tank out of the sewer cleanouts?

We have found that a tank cannot be effectively pumped through sewer cleanouts because the pumps on our trucks are simply too powerful, and there is no way to get all of the scum and debris out of the tank through a cleanout. It is recommended that the tank access lids be used in order to remove all liquid and solids from the tank and to inspect the baffles. To empty the tank completely, we unlock all compartments and use a pump to remove the full contents of it. The fact that you do not pump through the main access holes in the tank itself is a disservice to yourself and your system.

how do you know the size of my tank?

Our experts and inspectors can identify the size of the tank based on the form of the tank; tanks for a normal residence are generally 1,000 or 1,250 gallons in capacity, respectively (tanks may be smaller or larger depending on bedroom count, style of tank, etc). Our trucks are outfitted with clear sight glasses, allowing our specialists to keep track of the number of gallons they are extracting from your tank. Our specialists are also trained to measure the tank measurements on the job site in order to establish the approximate gallon capacity.

why do you recommend routine maintenance and frequent pump outs when I’ve not a had a problem in the last 10 years and I’ve never had my tank pumped?

Even while many homeowners are able to go several years over the suggested maintenance time without experiencing any problems, harm is gradually being done. Solids that are insoluble in water and cannot be broken down by natural microbes are stored in the tank. This builds up over time until the tank no longer has enough space to hold everything. As a result, the solids make their way to the drain field where they fill up the pores in the earth, causing poor drainage and, eventually, the failure of the septic system and drainfield.

How long will my septic system last?

All septic systems have a defined life span, which means they will ultimately cease to function.

The length of time a system will survive is determined by the system’s size, installation, soil composition, the water table, neighboring trees and roots, the amount of usage and abuse, and, most crucially, the frequency with which it is maintained and pumped.

if I have a garbage disposal Can i use it?

Yes! It is OK to use the garbage disposal for a limited amount of time, such as for food crumbs that remain after doing the dishes. Pump outs will be more frequent if the disposal is used more frequently, which will result in higher costs. The usage of a trash disposal can have a negative impact on your septic system by increasing the quantity of suspended particles that enter the system. Soil treatment areas can get clogged with suspended particles, which reduces the soil’s ability to remove waste.

CAN I FLUSH WET WIPESFEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS?

No! The presence of this problem is one of the most prevalent we see in tanks. Wipes and/or feminine hygiene items block sewer pipes and do not decompose properly in the holding tank, causing backups.

how often can i do laundry?

It is critical not to overburden your computer system. Instead of completing a large number of loads in a single day, try to spread them out over the course of a week. Doing no more than two loads of laundry every day – one in the morning and one in the evening – is advised.

Can I have a water softener system with a septic system?

It is unlikely that a water softener will cause damage to most septic systems, albeit they may necessitate the installation of a somewhat bigger tank disposal area.

Can We Drive Over Our Leach Field?

Neither driving on the leach field nor on the entrance and exit sewer pipes, nor on the septic tank, is suggested by the manufacturer. It is possible to restrict or slow down efficient evaporation by compacting the soil over the leach lines. Evaporation is a critical component of the drainage and disposal process. It is possible to induce settling and even rupture of sewage pipes by driving over them. It is possible to produce cracks in a tank by driving over it, especially if it is made of fiberglass or plastic.

do i have a septic systeM?

Do you utilize well water in your home? Is there no meter on the water main that leads into your home? Do your water bill or property tax bill display a “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged” or “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged”? What about your next-door neighbors? Do they have a septic system? Your home may have a septic system if any of the following questions were answered affirmatively:

How do I find my septic system?

Once you’ve confirmed that you have a septic system, you may identify it by looking at your home’s “as built” drawing, inspecting your yard for lids and manhole covers, or calling us for assistance.

How Far Does The Tank Have To Be Away From The House?

The normal setback distance from the home is 10 feet. Yavapai County is committed to upholding this obligation. Keep these setbacks as they are to allow for easier access and to avoid any potential foundation and moisture concerns.

An alarm is going off in my tank- what do I do?!

The sirens on certain alternative systems alert the homeowner to a possible problem prior to effluent or waste backing up into the house. The alarm may sound to warn a problem with the electrical system or a high quantity of liquid in the tank. A pump or float may be malfunctioning, in which case it is recommended to contact either JT’s or your alternate system maintenance provider for assistance as soon as possible.

Can I Plant A Tree Over My Leach Field?

No.

Root invasion from trees is one of the most prevalent problems that affect septic systems today. Certain species of trees are extremely harmful to your septic system and should be avoided at all costs. Please check your local nursery for further information.

does jt’s provide portable storage tanks?

We’re sorry, but we don’t provide portable storage tanks at the present moment.

can jt’s facilitate a pipeline repair?

Yes! We are capable of repairing and replacing sewer inlet and outlet pipes. Our main line sewer camera service may also be used to plan infrastructure maintenance, as well as to aid with any and all forms of repair work. Please contact us if you would like to book a service.

why do you suggest running a sewer camera down my line?

A difficult blockage may necessitate the services of more than one plumber. Pipe obstructions can be caused by a variety of factors, including tree roots, grease, aging pipes, and foreign items. Our power snakes and Ridgid sewer cameras are excellent tools for identifying problems such as the following: Pipes that are broken, cracked, corroded, or collapsed are considered damaged and must be repaired or replaced. A clog is caused by a deposit of grease or a foreign item that prevents the passage of water.

Joints that are leaking—the seals between pipes have failed, enabling liquid to leak through.

Signs of Septic System Failure

Flooding is occurring in the home as a result of backed up water and sewage from toilets, drains, and sinks Bathtubs, showers, and sinks all drain at a snail’s pace
The plumbing system is making gurgling sounds. The presence of standing water or moist patches near the septic tank or drainfield

Noxious smells emanating from the septic tank or drainfield
Even in the midst of a drought, bright green, spongy luxuriant grass should cover the septic tank or drainfield. Algal blooms in the vicinity of ponds or lakes In certain water wells, there are high quantities of nitrates or coliform bacteria.

Septic systems, like the majority of other components of your house, require regular maintenance. As long as it is properly maintained, the septic system should give years of dependable service. If the septic system is not properly maintained, owners face the risk of having a dangerous and expensive failure on their hands. Septic systems, on the other hand, have a limited operating lifespan and will ultimately need to be replaced. Septic systems that have failed or are not working properly pose a threat to human and animal health and can damage the environment.

It is possible that a prompt response will save the property owner money in repair costs, as well as disease and bad influence on the environment in the future.

What happens when a septic system fails?

When a septic system fails, untreated sewage is dumped into the environment and carried to places where it shouldn’t be. This may cause sewage to rise to the surface of the ground around the tank or drainfield, or it may cause sewage to back up in the pipes of the structure. It is also possible that sewage will make its way into groundwater, surface water, or marine water without our knowledge. Pathogens and other potentially harmful substances are carried by the sewage. People and animals can become ill as a result of exposure to certain diseases and pollutants.

What are some common reasons a septic system doesn’t work properly?

The pipe between the home to the tank is obstructed. When this occurs, drains drain very slowly (perhaps much more slowly on lower floors of the structure) or cease draining entirely, depending on the situation. This is frequently a straightforward issue to resolve. The majority of the time, a service provider can “snake the line” and unclog the problem. Keeping your drains clear by flushing only human waste and toilet paper down the drain and having your system examined on an annual basis will help prevent clogs.

Plant roots might occasionally obstruct the pipe (particularly on older systems).
The inlet baffle to the tank is obstructed.
In case you have access to your intake baffle aperture, you may see if there is a blockage by inspecting it.
It is essential that you avoid damaging any of the septic system’s components.
Avoid clogging your inlet baffle by just flushing human waste and toilet paper, and get your system examined once a year to ensure that it is in good working order.
This may result in sewage backing up into the residence or surfacing near the septic tank as a result of the situation.
If there is an effluent filter, it has to be cleaned or changed as necessary.

Preventing this sort of problem from occurring is as simple as cleaning your effluent filter (if you have one) and getting your system examined once per year.

It is possible for sewage to back up into the residence when the drainfield collapses or becomes saturated with water.

Additionally, smells may be present around the tank or drainfield.

It is possible that the system was run incorrectly, resulting in an excessive amount of solid material making its way to the drainfield and causing it to fail prematurely.

While it is conceivable that a drainfield will get saturated due to excessive quantities of water (either from enormous volumes of water flowing down the drain or flooding the drainfield), it is not always viable to dry out and restore a drainfield.

A connection to the public sewer system should be explored if the drainfield has failed and it is possible to make the connection.

It will be necessary to replace the existing drainfield if this does not take place. It is possible for a septic system to fail or malfunction for various reasons. Septic professionals should be contacted if your system isn’t functioning correctly.

How can I prevent a failure?

An obstruction has developed in the pipe between the dwelling to the tank. It is at this point that drainage systems begin to drain extremely slowly (perhaps even more slowly on lower floors of the structure) or cease to drain entirely. In many cases, this is a straightforward issue to resolve. The majority of the time, a service provider can “snake the line” and clear it. Keeping your drains clear by flushing only human waste and toilet paper down the drain and having your system examined on an annual basis will help prevent blocked lines.

Roots from plants can occasionally clog the pipes (particularly on older systems).
Baffle at the tank’s inlet is obstructed.
To determine if there is a blockage in your intake baffle aperture, you must first get access to it.
Take care not to harm any of the components of the septic system.
Avoid clogging your inlet baffle by just flushing human waste and toilet paper, and get your system examined once a year to ensure that it is in good working condition.
Consequently, sewage may backup into the residence or may even surface close to the septic tank as a result of this situation.
The effluent filter, if there is one, must be cleaned or changed every year.

This sort of problem may be avoided by cleaning your effluent filter (if you have one) and having your system examined on a yearly basis, respectively.

It is possible for sewage to back up into the residence when the drainfield collapses or is inundated with water.

Also possible are smells in the area surrounding the tank or drainfield.

It is possible that the system was run incorrectly, resulting in an excessive amount of solid material making its way to the drainfield and leading it to break before its time.

While it is conceivable that a drainfield will get saturated due to excessive amounts of water (either from enormous volumes of water flowing down the drain or flooding the drainfield), this is not always the case.

A connection to the public sewer system should be explored if the drainfield has failed and it is feasible to do so.

If this is not done, a new drainfield will have to be constructed. Septic systems can fail or malfunction for a number of additional reasons. Septic professionals should be contacted if your system isn’t functioning correctly.

Can my failing septic system contaminate the water?

Yes, a failed septic system has the potential to pollute well water as well as adjacent water sources. Untreated wastewater is a health problem that has the potential to cause a variety of human ailments. Once this untreated wastewater enters the groundwater, it has the potential to poison your well and the wells of your neighbors. It is possible that oyster beds and recreational swimming sites will be affected if the sewage reaches local streams or water bodies.

Is there financial help for failing systems or repairs?

Yes, there are instances where this is true. Here are a few such alternatives.

In addition, Craft3 is a local nonprofit financial organization that provides loans in many counties. Municipal Health Departments- Some local health departments provide low-interest loan and grant programs to qualified applicants. A federal home repair program for people who qualify is offered by the USDA.

More Resources

Septic System 101: The Fundamentals of Septic Systems
Taking Good Care of Your Septic System
A video on how to inspect your septic system yourself
Using the Services of a Septic System Professional
Safety of the Septic Tank Lid

5 Signs Your Septic Drainfield Has Stopped Working

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

Drainage is being slowed.

As long as there is still any water in the pipes of the field, the drains in your home will continue to function, albeit at a slower rate.

The presence of obstructions in the inlet or outlet pipe, as well as several other septic problems that are less difficult to resolve than drainfield problems, might result in delayed drainage.

You may detect puddles or spongy and mushy ground all over the place if you look closely.

A backup occurs when the water level rises to a level that forces sewage up the input pipe and into the lowest drains in your house, which is known as a back up in the system.

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

Returning Flow is the fourth step.

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

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

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

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

This is the most effective way.

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

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