Which Way To Turn Septic Tank? (Correct answer)

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There is no way to transform an existing cesspool into a new septic tank. Upgrading in this context means removing the cesspool first and then adding the septic tank later on. This is not a DIY job either.

How do you turn off a septic tank?

If your septic tank alarm gets triggered, push the red button or switch on the alarm box to turn it off. The green light should be on to indicate the alarm has power; the red light means the water level is getting higher than it should be.

How do I know if my septic tank is backing up?

Septic Tank Back Up: Top 5 Warning Signs

Drain Clogs. Clogged drains are a common indicator of septic problems, as well as being one of the most common problems homeowners face.
Sewage Backup.

Standing Ground Water Near Septic Tank.
Bad Odors.
Patch of Overly Green Grass.

How often should I add chlorine to my septic?

It is designed to hold up to 6 gallons of regualar household bleach. Pour a gallon or two in every 2-3 months and be done!

How often should you switch drain fields?

After a replacement system has been installed, a homeowner should switch back to the old drain field after two years, and then switch back and forth between the two systems annually. This will result in a continuous use and rejuvenation cycle for both drain fields and should prevent future failures.

Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?

The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.

How do you tell if a septic pump is working?

To test if the pump is working, first turn the pump on by turning the second from the bottom float upside down. While holding that float upside down, turn the next float up (that would be the second from the top), upside down. You should hear the pump turn on.

Do all septic tanks have alarms?

All septic systems that use a pump to move wastewater from a septic pump tank to a drainfield or mound have an alarm installed in the house. The alarm goes off when wastewater is not being pumped from the septic pump tank to the drainfield or mound.

Will a flooded septic tank fix itself?

Most septic tanks are not damaged by flooding since they are below ground and completely covered. However, septic tanks and pump chambers can fill with silt and debris, and must be professionally cleaned. If the soil absorption field is clogged with silt, a new system may have to be installed.

Can I shower if my septic tank is full?

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

Can heavy rain cause septic backup?

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

How full should my septic tank be?

A septic tank should always be “filled” to its normal liquid level, or the bottom of the outlet pipe which carries effluent to the absorption area. This normal liquid level is usually between 8” to 12” from the top of the tank on average (see picture at right).

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?

Check out the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority’s animated, interactive model of how a residential septic system operates to learn more.

The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority has built an animated, interactive representation of how a residential septic system operates.

How to find your septic system

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

The following are some methods for determining whether or not your home has a septic system.

Failure symptoms: Mind the signs!

Once you have confirmed that you have a septic system, you can locate it by following these steps:

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 System Guide: How It Works and How to Maintain It

Water backing up into the drains of homes and businesses. It is most noticeable in dry times when the drainfield is lush and green. 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; and

What are Septic Tanks and How Do They Work?

Septic tanks are normally composed of concrete or heavyweight plastic and have a capacity of 1000 to 2000 gallons, depending on the manufacturer. In the tank, there are two chambers that are divided by a portion of a wall. The waste from the residence is channeled into the bigger room. Solids sink to the bottom of the chamber, and liquids make their way through a partial wall into the smaller second chamber, which is located above it. Anaerobic bacteria, which are found naturally in the environment, digest the solids and convert them into water, carbon dioxide, and a tiny amount of indigestible debris.

Septic Fields Distribute Liquid Effluent

The second chamber has an output pipe via which the liquid (known as effluent) from the tank is discharged to a disposal or leach field, depending on the situation. It is drained into the earth by a network of perforated pipes or through perforated plastic structures known as galleries, which are constructed of perforated plastic. It is common practice to lay the pipe or galleries in a bed of gravel, which aids in dispersing the liquid. During the course of the effluent’s percolation through the soil, the soil absorbs remaining bacteria and particles, resulting in water that is safe to drink by the time the water reaches the aquifer deeper down.

They are not much deeper than that since a large quantity of water escapes through evaporation or is transpired by grass growing above ground.

If you have sandy soils that drain too rapidly, you may not be able to treat the wastewater properly.

Sometimes the water cannot be disposed of properly because the natural soils include a high concentration of silt or clay.

Topsoil and grass are applied to the mound, which allows more water to leave through transpiration and evaporation than would otherwise be possible.

Septic Systems Rely on Gravity, Most of the Time

The majority of septic systems rely on gravity to transfer the liquid from the home to the tank and then to the field where it will be disposed of. However, due to the slope of the land, the tank or the field may need to be higher than the house in some instances. It is necessary to have a pump, or occasionally two pumps, in order for this to operate. A grinder pump, which liquefies sediments and is installed in a pit in the basement or crawlspace of the home, will be used if the tank is higher than the house.

Sewage pumps are essentially large sump pumps that are used for heavy-duty applications.

How to Treat Your Septic System

It is not necessary to do much to keep your septic system in good working order, other than cut the grass above it and keep the drainage area free of trees and plants with roots that may block it.

How Often Do You Need to Pump A Septic Tank?

It is not necessary to do much to keep your septic system in good working order, other than cut the grass above it and keep the drainage area free of trees and plants with roots that may block it up.

What to Do if Your Septic System Fails

It is not necessary to do much to keep your septic system in good working order, other than cut the grass above it and keep the drainage area free of trees and plants with roots that might block it.

The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association’s Septic Locator
The National Association of Wastewater Technicians

And the National Association of Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association

It is rare for a homeowner to have to worry about their septic system because it is well-maintained and doesn’t cause problems. Simple maintenance, such as keeping the tank pumped and the lawn trimmed, should result in decades of trouble-free service. What kind of protection do you have in place for your home’s systems and appliances against unforeseen maintenance needs? If this is the case, you might consider purchasing a house warranty.

Home Warranty Coverage for Roof Leaks

Septic Warranty Coverage and Costs
And more. Plans for protecting your mobile home’s warranty
What Is Home Repair Insurance and How Does It Work? How to Find the Most Reasonably Priced Home Appliance Insurance

How to Install a Septic Tank Switch

Pump float switches, which are correctly fitted, are required for the operation of effluent pumps. To determine the amount of liquid in septic tanks with pumps, a float switch located within the tank must be activated. As the liquid level in the tank rises, the float switch in the tank raises in response. Float switches turn on and off in proportion to the angle at which they are positioned. The cables that connect the float switches to the pump serve as a connection between them. These wires are stretched or shortened in order to give the appropriate swing to pump a certain amount of liquid.

A float switch that has been improperly fitted might cause damage to a pump or cause a drain field to become hydraulically overloaded.

Step 1

In order to determine the swing length and float switch height parameters, refer to the septic system design.

Step 2

In order to determine the swing length and float switch height parameters, refer to the septic system design document (PDF).

Step 3

Reduce the height of the effluent pump’s discharge pipe by lowering the pipe clamp until it meets the height stipulated in the septic design.

Step 4

To loosen the pipe clamp, use a screwdriver to turn it counterclockwise.

Step 5

Hold a tape measure vertically against the effluent discharge pipe to determine the length of the pipe. Change the position of the float switch from the “off” position to the “on” position.

Step 6

Placing a tape measure vertically against the effluent discharge pipe will get the following results: Change the position of the float switch from the “off” position to the “on.”

Step 7

When the tether has been properly adjusted, use a screwdriver to tighten the metal tether clamp on the harness.

Step 8

Wrap two plastic wire ties around the metal clamp to secure it in place. Tighten the wire tie by inserting the end of the tie into the locking mechanism and tightening. This gives further assurance that the float will remain in place in the event that the metal clamp corrodes and fails.

Warning

When working around septic tanks, always sure to use protective gear.

A Beginner’s Guide to Septic Systems

Septic systems are used to dispose of waste from homes and buildings. Identifying the location of the septic tank and drainfield
What a Septic System Is and How It Works Keeping a Septic System in Good Condition

Signs that a septic system is failing include:

Septic systems, also known as on-site wastewater management systems, are installed in a large number of buildings and houses. It is easy to lose sight of septic systems, which operate quietly, gracefully, and efficiently to protect human and environmental health due to their burying location. Septic systems are the norm in rural regions, but they may also be found in a lot of metropolitan places, especially in older buildings. It is critical to understand whether or not your building is on a septic system.

Is Your Home or Building on a Septic System?

It is possible that the solution to this question will not be evident. If a structure looks to be connected to a sewage system, it may instead be connected to a septic system. It is fairly unusual for tenants to be unaware of the final destination of the wastewater generated by their residence. Some of the hints or signs listed below will assist in determining whether the facility is served by a septic system or whether it is supplied by a sewer system:

Sewer service will be provided at a cost by the city or municipality. Pay close attention to the water bill to see whether there is a cost labeled “sewer” or “sewer charge” on it. If there is a fee for this service, it is most likely because the facility is connected to a sewage system. Look up and down the street for sewage access ports or manholes, which can be found in any location. If a sewage system runs in front of a property, it is probable that the house is connected to it in some way. Inquire with your neighbors to see if they are connected to a sewer or septic system. The likelihood that your home is on a sewer system is increased if the properties on each side of you are on one as well. Keep in mind, however, that even if a sewage line runs in front of the structure and the nearby residences are connected to a sewer system, your home or building may not be connected to one. If the structure is older than the sewer system, it is possible that it is still on the original septic system. Consult with your local health agency for further information. This agency conducts final inspections of septic systems to ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations. There is a possibility that they have an archived record and/or a map of the system and will supply this information upon request

All property owners should be aware of whether or not their property is equipped with an on-site wastewater treatment system. Georgia law mandates that the property owner is responsible for the correct operation of a septic system, as well as any necessary maintenance and repairs.

Locating the Septic Tank and Drainfield

Finding a septic system may be a difficult process. They can be buried anywhere in the yard, including the front, back, and side yards. After a few years, the soil may begin to resemble the surrounding soil, making it impossible to distinguish the system from the surrounding soil. It is possible that in dry weather, the grass will be dryer in the shallow soil over the tank and greener over the drainfield, where the cleansed water will be released, but this is not always the case, especially in hot weather.

The contractor who built the house should have presented the initial owner with a map showing the tank and drainfield locations, according to the building code.
The installation of the system, as well as any modifications made to it, would have been examined by your local health authority.

Unfortunately, if the system is very old, any records related with it may be insufficient or nonexistent, depending on the situation.
Look for the point at where the wastewater pipes join together if the building is on a crawlspace or has an unfinished basement.
The sewer line that runs through the structure is referred to as the building sewer.

To “feel” for the tank, use a piece of re-bar or a similar metal probe.
If you use this free service, you may avoid accidentally putting a rod through your gas or water line.

Try to locate the tank after a rainstorm, when the metal probe will be more easily maneuvered through moist dirt.

This should be done with care; extreme caution should be exercised to avoid puncturing the building sewer.

A tank is normally 5 by 8 feet in size, however the dimensions might vary.

Be aware that there may be rocks, pipes, and other debris in the area that “feels” like the tank but is not in fact part of the tank.

However, it is possible to have the lid or access port positioned on a riser in addition to being on the same level as the top of the tank in some cases.

Once the tank has been identified, make a rough drawing of its placement in relation to the house so that it will not be misplaced again!

It may be easier to discover the drainage lines now that the tank has been identified, particularly if the area has been subjected to prolonged periods of drought.

How a Septic System Works

Typical sewage treatment system (figure 1). It is composed of three components (Figure 1): the tank, the drain lines or discharge lines, and the soil treatment area (also known as the soil treatment area) (sometimes called a drainfield or leach field). The size of the tank varies according to the size of the structure. The normal home (three bedrooms, two bathrooms) will often include a 1,000-gallon water storage tank on the premises. Older tanks may only have one chamber, however newer tanks must have two chambers.

The tank functions by settling waste and allowing it to be digested by microbes.
These layers include the bottom sludge layer, the top scum layer, and a “clear” zone in the center.
A typical septic tank is seen in Figure 2.

It is fortunate that many of the bacteria involved are found in high concentrations in the human gastrointestinal tract.
Although the bacteria may break down some of the stuff in the sludge, they are unable to break down all of it, which is why septic tanks must be cleaned out every three to seven years.
In addition, when new water is introduced into the septic tank, an equal volume of water is pushed out the discharge lines and onto the drainfield.

The water trickles out of the perforated drain pipes, down through a layer of gravel, and into the soil below the surface (Figure 3).
A typical drainfield may be found here.
Plants, bacteria, fungus, protozoa, and other microorganisms, as well as bigger critters such as mites, earthworms, and insects, flourish in soil.

Mineralogical and metallic elements attach to soil particles, allowing them to be removed from the waste water.

Maintaining a Septic System

The most typical reason for a septic system to fail is a lack of proper maintenance. Septic systems that are failing are expensive to repair or replace, and the expense of repairs rests on the shoulders of the property owner (Figure 4). Fortunately, keeping your septic system in good working order and avoiding costly repairs is rather simple. Figure 4. Septic system failure is frequently caused by a lack of proper maintenance. It is in your best interests to be aware of the location of the system, how it operates, and how to maintain it.

You should pump the tank if you aren’t sure when the last time it was pumped.

It is not permissible to drive or park over the tank or drainage field.
No rubbish should be disposed of in the sink or the toilet.
It’s important to remember that garbage disposals enhance the requirement for regular pumping.

When designing a landscape, keep the septic system in mind.
It is also not recommended to consume veggies that have been cultivated above drainfield lines (see Dorn, S.
Ornamental Plantings on Septic Drainfields.

C 1030).

Any water that enters your home through a drain or toilet eventually ends up in your septic system.

Don’t put too much strain on the system by consuming a large amount of water in a short period of time.

Additives should not be used.

Various types of additives are available for purchase as treatment options, cleansers, restorers, rejuvenator and boosters, among other things.

To break up oil and grease and unclog drains, chemical additives are available for purchase.

Pumping out the septic tank is not eliminated or reduced by using one of these systems.

They remain floating in the water and travel into the drainfield, where they may block the pipes. Acids have the potential to damage concrete storage tanks and distribution boxes.

Signs a Septic System is Failing

A failed system manifests itself in the following ways:

Sinks and toilets drain at a snail’s pace

Plumbing that is backed up
The sound of gurgling emanating from the plumbing system House or yard aromas that smell like sewage
In the yard, there is wet or squishy dirt

Water that is gray in hue that has accumulated
An region of the yard where the grass is growing more quickly and is becoming greener
Water contaminated by bacteria from a well

If you notice any of these indicators, you should notify your local health department immediately. An environmentalist from the health department can assist in identifying possible hazards. There are also listings of state-certified contractors available from the local health department, who may do repairs. Repairs or alterations to the system must be approved by the health department and examined by an inspector. Keep an eye out for any meetings that may take place between a health department inspector and a contractor to discuss repairs to your system.

Household garbage that has not been properly handled is released into the environment when systems fail.
It has the potential to pollute surrounding wells, groundwater, streams, and other sources of potable water, among other things.

The foul odor emanating from a malfunctioning system can cause property values to plummet.
Briefly stated, broken systems can have an impact on your family, neighbors, community, and the environment.
Septic systems are an effective, attractive, and reasonably priced method of treating and disposing of wastewater.

Figures 2 and 3 reprinted with permission from: CIDWT. 2009. Installation of Wastewater Treatment Systems. Consortium of Institutes for Decentralized Wastewater Treatment. Iowa State University, Midwest Plan Service. Ames, IA.

History of the current status and revisions Published on the 15th of August, 2013. Published on March 28th, 2017 with a full review.

How Does a Septic Tank Work?

Mr. Fix-It-Up-For-The-Family You may save a lot of money if you understand how a sewage treatment system works—and what can go wrong—so that you can handle your own septic system maintenance.

How does a septic tank work?

Pumping the tank on a regular basis eliminates sludge and scum, which helps to keep a septic system in good working order. It is possible for a well-designed and well built septic system to last for decades, or it might collapse in a matter of years. It is entirely up to you as long as you can answer the question of how do septic tanks function. Healthy septic systems are very inexpensive to maintain, but digging up and replacing a septic system that has completely collapsed may easily cost tens of thousands in labor and material costs.

It’s critical to understand how a septic tank works in order to maintain one.

Let’s take a look below ground and observe what happens in a properly operating septic system, shall we? After that, I’ll explain why things go wrong and offer you some tips on how to keep your system in peak operating condition.

Understand that a septic system is a cafeteria for bacteria

Bacteria are responsible for the proper operation of a septic system. They decompose garbage, resulting in water that is clean enough to safely trickle down into the earth’s surface. The entire system is set up to keep bacteria healthy and busy at all times. Some of them reside in the tank, but the majority of them are found in the drain field. 1. The septic tank is the final destination for all waste. 2. The majority of the tank is filled with watery waste, referred to as “effluent.” Anaerobic bacteria begin to break down the organic matter in the effluent as soon as it enters the system.

A layer of sludge settles to the bottom of the container.
4.
Scum is mostly constituted of fats, greases, and oils, among other substances.

Grease and oils float to the surface of the water.
(5) A filter stops the majority of particles from reaching the exit pipe.
The effluent is discharged into the drain field.

Effluent is allowed to leak into the surrounding gravel because of holes in the drain septic field pipe.
The garbage is completely decomposed by aerobic bacteria found in gravel and dirt.
Potable water seeps into the groundwater and aquifer system from the surface.

Septic Tank Clean Out: Don’t abuse the system

Septic systems that have been correctly planned and constructed require just occasional ‘pumping’ to remove the sludge and scum that has built up inside the tank. However, if you don’t understand how a septic tank works, you may unintentionally hurt or even destroy the system.

Drains are used to dispose of waste that decomposes slowly (or not at all). Cigarette butts, diapers, and coffee grounds are all known to cause issues. Garbage disposers, if utilized excessively, can introduce an excessive amount of solid waste into the system. Lint from synthetic fibers is emitted from washing machine lint traps. This substance is not degraded by bacteria in the tank and drain septic field. Bacteria are killed by chemicals found in the home, such as disinfecting cleansers and antibacterial soaps. The majority of systems are capable of withstanding limited usage of these goods, but the less you use them, the better. When a large amount of wastewater is produced in a short period of time, the tank is flushed away too quickly. When there is too much sludge, bacteria’s capacity to break down waste is reduced. Sludge can also overflow into the drain field if there is too much of it. Sludge or scum obstructs the flow of water via a pipe. It is possible for tree and shrub roots to obstruct and cause harm to a drain field. Compacted soil and gravel prevent wastewater from seeping into the ground and deprive germs of oxygen. Most of the time, this is caused by vehicles driving or parking on the drain field.

Get your tank pumped…

Your tank must be emptied on a regular basis by a professional. Pumping eliminates the accumulation of sludge and scum that has accumulated in the tank, which has caused the bacterial action to be slowed. If you have a large tank, it may be necessary to pump it once a year; but, depending on the size of your tank and the quantity of waste you send through the system, you may go two or three years between pumpings. Inquire with your inspector about an approximate guideline for how frequently your tank should be pumped.

…but don’t hire a pumper until you need it

Inspections and pumping should be performed on a regular basis. However, if you’re not afraid of getting your hands dirty, you may verify the sludge level yourself with a gadget known as The Sludge Judge. It ranges in price from $100 to $125 and is commonly accessible on the internet. Once you’ve verified that your tank is one-third full with sludge, you should contact a professional to come out and pump it out completely.

Install an effluent filter in your septic system

Garbage from your home accumulates into three distinct strata.

The septic filter is responsible for preventing blockage of the drain field pipes.

Septic tank filter close-up

The septic tank filter is responsible for capturing suspended particles that may otherwise block the drain field pipes. Obtain an effluent filter for your tank from your contractor and place it on the outflow pipe of your tank. (It will most likely cost between $50 and $100, plus labor.) This device, which helps to prevent sediments from entering the drain field, will need to be cleaned out on a regular basis by a contractor to maintain its effectiveness.

Solution for a clogged septic system

If your septic system becomes clogged and you find yourself having to clean the filter on a regular basis, you might be tempted to simply remove the filter altogether. Hold on to it. Solids, wastewater, and scum are separated into three levels in septic tanks, which allows them to function properly (see illustration above). Solids sink to the bottom of the container, where microbes breakdown them. The scum, which is made up of trash that is lighter than water, rises to the surface. In the drainage field, the middle layer of effluent leaves the tank and goes through an underground network of perforated pipes to the drainage field.

Keep the effluent filter in place since it is required by your state’s health law.
Waste particles might flow through the filter and clog the perforated pipes if the filter is not used.

Your filter, on the other hand, should not require cleaning every six months.
A good chance is high that you’re flushing filter-clogging things down the toilet, such as grease, fat, or food scraps.
A garbage disposal will not be able to break down food particles sufficiently to allow them to flow through the septic tank filtration system.

Plastic items, disposable diapers, paper towels, nonbiodegradable goods, and tobacco products will clog the system if they are flushed through it.
More information on removing lint from your laundry may be found here.

Get an inspection

Following a comprehensive first check performed by an expert, regular inspections will cost less than $100 each inspection for the next year. Your professional will be able to inform you how often you should get your system inspected as well as how a septic tank functions. As straightforward as a septic system appears, determining its overall condition necessitates the services of a professional. There are a plethora of contractors who would gladly pump the sludge out of your tank, but many, in my experience, are unable to explain how a septic system works or how it should be maintained.

A certification scheme for septic contractors has been established in certain states; check with your state’s Secretary of State’s office to see whether yours is one of them.

Also, a qualified inspector will be able to tell you whether or not your tank is large enough to accommodate your household’s needs, as well as the maximum amount of water that can be passed through it in a single day.

You may be able to boost the performance of your system by using a product such as RID-X to introduce bacteria into the system. As you learn more about how a septic tank works, your professional should be able to tell you whether or not your system will benefit from this treatment.

Alternatives to a new drain field

If an examination or a sewage backup indicate that your drain field is in need of replacement, the only option is to replace it completely. As a result, it’s important to talk with a contractor about other possibilities before proceeding with the project.

Pipes should be cleaned. A rotating pressure washer, used by a contractor, may be used to clean out the drain septic field pipes. The cost of “jetting” the pipes is generally around $200. Chemicals should be used to clean the system. A commercial solution (not a home-made one) that enhances the quantity of oxygen in the drain field should be discussed with your contractor before installing your new system. Septic-Scrub is a product that I suggest. A normal treatment will cost between $500 and $1,000. Make the soil more pliable. The practice of “terra-lifting,” which involves pumping high-pressure air into several spots surrounding the drain field, is authorized in some regions. Some contractors use it to shatter compacted dirt around the pipes. Depending on the circumstances, this might cost less than $1,000 or as much as $4,000 or more.

Protect your drain septic field from lint

When this device is in place, it inhibits lint from entering the system, especially synthetic fibers that bacteria are unable to digest. One of these filters, which I’ve designed and termed theSeptic Protector, was invented by me. An additional filter is included in the price of around $150 plus delivery. Learn more about how to filter out laundry lint in this article.

Don’t overload the septic system

Reduce the amount of water you use. The volume of water that flows into your tank, particularly over a short period of time, can be reduced to avoid untreated waste from being flushed into your drain field. Replace outdated toilets with low-flow ones, install low-flow showerheads, and, perhaps most importantly, wash laundry throughout the week rather than just on Saturday mornings to save water.

Meet the Expert

Septic systems, according to Jim vonMeier, are the solution to America’s water deficit because they supply cleaned water to depleted aquifers, according to vonMeier. He travels the country lobbying for septic systems, giving lectures, and giving testimony. For septic system inquiries, as well as information on the operation of the septic tank, contact him by email.

Does Your Septic System Require A New Pump?

A septic tank’s waste and sewage are evacuated from it and discharged into a drain field, either by gravity or with the assistance of a septic system lift pump. In most cases, a septic pump is not required if the waste can flow at a rate of at least two feet per second through the system using gravity alone. Pumps are typically required for septic tanks that are located lower than the drain field and for which gravity is unable to transport and/or force the effluent out of the tank due to its location.

Know If Your System Uses A Septic Effluent Pump Or Septic Grinder Pump

Knowing what sort of pump your septic system is equipped with is critical to the overall operation of the system. A septic effluent pump is a device that transfers waste from a septic tank to a drain field. A septic grinder pump is responsible for the grinding and movement of human waste and toilet paper. Septic tank businesses in Gainesville, FL such as Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service can help if you’re not sure what sort of pump the system is using or where it’s located in the system. Our professionals will identify the pump and check the septic system in order to notify you of the procedures that need to be taken in order to keep all components in proper operating order.

How Septic Pumps Work

A septic pump is a sort of submersible pump that is installed in either the last chamber of the septic tank or in a separate chamber outside the main tank of the system. As waste builds up in the chamber, it activates a float switch, which then activates the septic pump. Waste is then forced up the outflow pipe and onto the drain field by an impeller. Installing a septic tank pump alarm is a fantastic method to avoid having to do unneeded septic tank cleanouts. One of our professionals will connect the float switch to an alarm panel, which will sound if the pump fails for any reason during the installation.

The sewage level continues to build in the absence of a functional pump, and an alarm sounds to alert you that the waste is not being evacuated from the tank. This alarm will ring and notify you if there is a sewage backup in your home.

Maintenance For A Septic Pump

The upkeep of a septic pump goes hand in hand with the upkeep of a septic system in its whole. Never drain or flush any of the following common home objects to avoid the need for emergency septic service and to ensure the pump’s long-term functionality:

Baby wipes
Cat litter
Fats, oils, and/or grease produced by or utilized in the preparation of meals

Dental floss
Personal hygiene products
And Q-tips or other cotton swabs are all recommended.

In addition, avoid using the garbage disposal because this can cause the septic tank to fill up more rapidly and force water into the tank, among other things. If there is an excessive amount of water entering the septic system, it can cause sediments to enter the septic pump, resulting in a probable blockage in either the pump or the drain field. If or when this occurs, contact Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service for prompt and dependable septic tank repairs.

Common Septic Pump Issues

Even with proper maintenance, a septic pump can develop a variety of problems over time, including the following:

Noise Or No Noise

There are occasions when it is possible to hear the septic pump operating within the chamber itself. Do not hesitate to contact us for septic service if it appears that the pump is having difficulty or is failing to transport waste effectively.

Leaking Into The Septic Tank

The septic pump is equipped with a check valve, which provides a pressure gradient in order to keep the waste flowing through the pump and into the drainage system. Whenever the valve wears down or breaks, waste is forced back into the septic tank, causing the tank to overflow and back up into the pipes.

Faulty Float

Floats can become stuck open or closed, or they might become damaged as a result of material entering the septic tank. Depending on the extent of the damage, a professional from Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service may be able to remove the debris or may need to replace the float entirely.

Burnt Out Motor

If the motor within the septic pump burns out or fails, the pump will be unable to transfer waste, even if the energy is still being supplied to the device, since the waste would be trapped. In most cases, replacing the pump will address the problem.

Installing A New Septic Pump Or System

Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service will replace your septic tank if it is essential, and they will also install a new pump. Everything begins with an application, which is needed by the Florida Department of Health. We will always assist you in filling out the application and applying for any permissions that may be required. Our professionals will be pleased to walk you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have along the way.

Septic Tank Service

Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service can solve any septic issue, regardless of whether your sewage system currently has a pump or if you’re interested whether installing a pump will increase the system’s overall efficiency. When performing septic tank repairs in Gainesville, our specialists take into consideration the demands of the family or company. Call Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service immediately to make an appointment for septic service!

How to Check Your Septic Panel and Pump Chamber

It is recommended that you inspect your pump chamber once a year to ensure that everything is in proper working order.

Follow the 11-step procedure outlined below to complete this task on your own! (Do you require further assistance? Alternatively, you may watch our instructional video below.)

‍ 1. Let’s start by inspecting the panel. Make sure the power is on by verifying the power switch to the panel is on.

The following items should be included in this general overview: The electrical box may be seen in the lower left corner of the image below, starting at the bottom of the image. Check to verify that all of the cables are firmly connected before using it. Next, take a look at the lower right corner of the photograph, where you can see the discharge pipe for the pump. Check to see if it is operational (valve should be lined up with pipe). It’s now time to have some fun!

‍ FIRST.PUT ON GLOVES!That is one step you DO NOT want to miss. Remove the float tree (the pipe with a pvc handle located upright left in our picture) and pull up the alarms.

*Please keep in mind that these instructions are for a 4-float system. Some systems contain only two or three floats.

If you don’t hear an alarm, this is cause for concern. Starting at the top, I will explain the floats and how to ensure each one is working.

NOTE: If your water is low, you may need to add water. Fill it up a little with water from a yard hose.

7. Continue testing.

Check that the pump is operating properly by flipping the second float from the bottom upside down and then turning it back around. With your other hand, turn the next float up (which would be the second from the top) upside down while still holding the first float. You should be able to hear the pump start up. As soon as you have confirmed that the pump is operational, just release these two floats. There’s one more float to go. The top float serves as an alert in case of high water. Turn it over down to see whether this is the case.

8. Now is the time to inspect the power cords.

Check to see that everything is securely tied to the float tree and not just hanging free. Zip ties can be used to reattach any stray cables.

9. Securely return the float tree to its holder and coil any dangling cords so that they are out of the water.

There is a common misconception that your septic tank and drain field are placed in a large open area in your backyard. This is not necessarily the case. In fact, if you make educated guesses about the position of your tank and drain field, you may end up overwatering the wrong parts of your grass. What was the ultimate result? It is possible that septic waste will begin to flow up through your moist soil. Identifying the exact location of your septic tank and drain field is very crucial. The most effective method of locating your septic system is to contact the county health department office in your area.

You’ll be able to determine the precise placement of your tank from there, and you’ll be more aware of its location when it comes to keeping your grass.

Monitor Your Water Usage

A lengthy, hot shower is something that everyone enjoys. However, it is well known that taking long showers increases your water cost and can also cause problems with your drain field. There is some good news: you will not be required to transition to two-minute showers. You should, however, make a few modifications that will allow you to save a significant amount of water in the long term. These changes include:

Use a shower head with a modest gallons per minute flow rate. This will allow you to still have a wonderful shower while just using a fraction of the water that you would normally use

Aerators should be installed in all of your faucets. The use of these little screens will lower your water consumption by gallons per day.

Any water leaks should be repaired. That seemingly insignificant drip from your faucet or toilet may not seem like much, but it has the potential to cause significant damage to your drain field over time.

These are hardly life-changing changes, but these minor adjustments will have a favorable influence on your septic system as well as your wallet!

Change Your Garbage Disposal Habits

Yes, it is handy to be able to dispose of a variety of items fast and efficiently by utilizing a trash disposal.

Not only is it toxic and detrimental to the environment, but it may also be harmful to your septic system, as you may not have realized. There are three factors contributing to this:

When garbage disposal material is crushed up, it might become stuck in the perforated pipes of the drain field. When most individuals use water to ease down ground-up waste, the water is not equally disseminated, resulting in flooding particular sections of the drain field. The moment you have a saturating drain field, you’re in big trouble. Prepare yourself for a lot of headaches

So, what’s the solution?

We strongly encourage you to use a compost bin. It will be far safer to utilize all of the stuff that you would ordinarily pulverize via your waste disposal. Compost bins are simple to construct and maintain, plus they are completely free!

Deal with Harmful Liquids

Using a compost bin is strongly recommended. All of the stuff that you would ordinarily pulverize down your garbage disposal will be used in a much more safe manner with this method. Compost bins are inexpensive, simple to construct, and straightforward to maintain.

Oils, fats, grease, gasoline, gels, chemicals, paint, paint thinner, chlorinated soaps (in excess), anti-bacterial soaps (in excess), and other similar substances

Consider whether you can replace your hand soap with something that is less harmful to your septic system. Anti-bacterial soaps, in particular, have a propensity to deplete your tank’s population of beneficial bacteria over time. This may decrease the life of your septic system and may even cause your tank to be stripped to the point where it is no longer functional.

Be Smart About What You Flush

Despite the fact that many individuals are lax when it comes to regulating what they flush down their toilets, there is only one thing (apart from garbage) that you should flush down your toilet: toilet paper. As a result, the following activities are prohibited:

Paper towels, facial tissue, kitty litter, coffee grounds, diapers, and cigarette butts are all examples of household waste.

Keep these materials separate from your garbage can and compost container. Remember to be careful of how much toilet paper you are using at any one moment, even if you are using toilet paper. Being wise and disposing of products in their proper disposals can help you extend the life of your septic system while also helping to keep the environment clean!

Don’t Flush Prescription Drugs

Many individuals make the mistake of flushing prescription medicines down their toilets and sinks, which is dangerous. We’re not even talking about illicit stuff here; we’re just talking about your everyday prescription pills and prescriptions! Misuse of drugs and inappropriate disposal of pharmaceuticals is becoming an increasingly serious concern. Maintain the health of your system. Maintain the condition of your drain field. Take precautions to protect the environment. Make wise decisions regarding how to dispose of your unused medications, and you will be assisting not just yourself and your family, but also others.

Use the Right Household Cleaners

Household cleansers appear to be completely safe, and this is true when they are used sparingly. However, if they are used excessively, several of them have the potential to cause major harm to your septic system and drain field over time. Several toilet bowl cleaners, including Lysol and Toilet Duck, as well as general cleansers, such as Pine-Sol and Shower Power, include residues that might deplete your septic tank’s beneficial bacteria. These identical chemicals have the power to clog your drain pipes as well as your toilet.

Alternatively, it is recommended to explore utilizing less dangerous alternatives to your usual brand-name cleaning products rather than your standard brand-name cleaning products.

Cover Your Drains

Are you weary of having to pick hair, fur, and filth out of your drains every time you flush your toilet? It’s surely not one of the most pleasurable jobs to do. However, the worst part is that some of these items are likely to pass through and block your pipes, requiring you to plan more septic cleanings than you would otherwise need. But there is a simple solution that will leave you feeling guilty: just place screen filters over your drainage pipes.

This will allow water to easily flow down your drain, preventing damage to your pipes in the process. Remove your screen filters, clean them, and re-install them where they go, and you will no longer have to deal with the problems associated with septic system maintenance.

Install an Outlet Filter

An outlet filter is one of the most important expenditures you can make in order to preserve your septic system from damage. For $100-$200, you may install an outlet filter in your septic system to remove stray hair, oil, and other clogging substances before they enter your septic system. As an added precaution, sink strainers, hair traps in drains, and lint catchers on washing machines should be installed. These apparently insignificant improvements will assist to ensure the longevity of your septic system for many years to come.

Choose Safe Septic Cleaners

Before scheduling a septic system pumping, consider using a safe, do-it-yourself cleaner to clean your septic system. It is critical, however, that you select a cleaning solution that will not be damaging to your system in any way. When looking for a cleaning, you may come across advertisements that make claims such as “you will never have to pump your tank again!” In addition to being false, such statements imply that the cleansers are anti-bacterial, which is not the case. Just make sure you read the label!

Brand-name cleaners, such as Drano, Liquid-Plumr, Liquid Fire, and Drain Care, should also be avoided while cleaning drains.

They are only temporary fixes that can be used to put lesser problems at bay.

Schedule an Inspection

What is the best way to determine whether your drain field need maintenance? Due to the fact that it is below ground, it might be difficult to tell when it requires inspection. But there are a few obvious signals that your system is in need of maintenance:

The first is that drainage is sluggish. If you notice that your sinks or toilets are running slower than usual, contact your septic specialist immediately.

In the second place, there is a clogged toilet. If this is happening more and more frequently, it is likely that it is time to get it inspected.

A clogged toilet is the second indication. This indicates that it is time for an examination if it is happening more and more frequently.

If you see something, don’t wait. Remember, any problems you ignore now will only become more costly headaches down the road.

Do you have a routine in place for pumping out your tank? Even if you do recall, when was the last time you filled your tank? If this is not the case, it is possible that you are not treating your septic system as the considerable investment that it truly represents. It’s past time to make a difference. First and foremost, it is recommended that septic tanks be pumped every three to five years; however, if you have a bigger household (5 or more inhabitants), you should consider pumping even more regularly.

If you want to know how often to pump your septic, we have apage on this websitewhere you can find out for your home.

However, if you are aware of when your last pumping occurred and how frequently you should pump, all you need is a system in place to assist you in keeping track of your septic maintenance. Consider putting the following measures in place:

Make a chart that notes the pumper’s name and the date and time your tank was pumped. Always request a report on the condition of the pump from the pumper. Examine the drain field to see if there was any backflow of water, and inquire about the quality of the concrete and if all of the baffles were in place.

Get Your Family on Board

Let’s face it: we’re in a bind. However, while children are a source of pride for us, they can also cause septic issues since they lack a grasp of what can and cannot be flushed or drained. Paper, crayons, toys, gum, and a variety of other items have been known to make their way into our toilet bowls over time.

Make an effort to educate your children on the fundamentals of how your septic system operates. You may accomplish this in a short period of time and with great effectiveness by following the methods outlined below:

Point out the location of your septic tank and drain field outdoors to your youngster, and highlight the necessity of safeguarding your septic system by explaining what may happen to the system if something goes wrong.

Ensure that everyone understands what can and cannot be flushed (a very small list that should be confined to body waste and toilet paper), and what can and cannot be flushed down the sink or bath drain (water only).

Involving your entire family in the aim of maintaining and protecting your wastewater treatment system will go a long way toward protecting your investment! ‍‍