Why Is Septic Tank Blocked? (Solved)

Causes of septic tank soakaway blockages For instance, a septic tank soakaway can become blocked: As a result of dip pipe or baffle issues in the septic tank. If the septic tank isn’t emptied regularly enough. Growing tree roots interfere with pipes in the system, constricting, damaging, or even collapsing pipes.

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  • There are a wide variety of reasons why your septic tank may be blocked up. Blockages may be caused by one or more of the following: 1. Tree Roots Throughout the years, trees in your gardens will grow both above and below the ground. I

How do you fix a clogged septic tank?

Sprinkle the drain with baking soda, then dump vinegar into the pipe. Leave the mixture to sit in the pipe for an hour or two. Finally, flush the drain with hot water. If the clog is small, this could be enough to clear the pipe.

Why does my septic tank keep getting clogged?

A clogged septic tank or drain is caused by a number of things: An obstruction in the line caused by a buildup of pressure between the object and the inner circumference of the pipe. An example is a diaper stuck in the sewer drain line. There is simply too much diaper to fit through the line at once!

How do I know if my septic line is clogged?

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

What are signs of septic tank problems?

7 Warning Signs Your Septic System Is Failing

  • Gurgling Pipes. They would occur when you run water in the house (e.g. when using the sink or shower) or flush the toilet.
  • Bad Odours. It’s never a pleasant experience when this occurs.
  • Water At Ground Level.
  • Green Grass.
  • Slow Drainage.
  • Blocked Pipes.

What is the most common cause of septic system failure?

Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.

How often should you pump your septic tank?

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

How do I clean my septic tank naturally?

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

How do you clear a main line block?

Steps For How to Clear A Main Sewer Line Clog

  1. Loosen the Drain Pipe Cap (Cleanout Pipe) The first step is to find your main drain cleanout location.
  2. Remove Cap, Allow Build-Up to Drain. Once you remove the cleanout cap, step away quickly.
  3. Insert the Snake into Pipe.
  4. Run the Tool Until Clog Is Gone.
  5. Clean Up.

How do you tell if your drain field is clogged?

Stay vigilant for five signs your drainfield does not drain correctly anymore.

  1. Slowing Drainage. Homeowners first notice slower than usual drainage from all the sinks, tubs, and toilets in a home when they have a compromised drainfield.
  2. Rising Water.
  3. Increasing Plant Growth.
  4. Returning Flow.
  5. Developing Odors.

The Most Common Causes Of A Clogged Septic Tank – How To Fix

A blocked septic tank can be caused by a variety of factors in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids as well as Three Rivers, Delton, Plainwell, Richland, Otsego, Climax, Vicksburg, Comstock, Plainwell, Athens, Union City, Burlington, and Albion, Michigan. Drain monkeys recommended that you get your septic tank pumped every 3 to 4 years, depending on the size of your household, as one of the first things you should do after purchasing your home. Every four years, a household of three or four should have their septic tank drained.

A clogged septic tank plumbing system (drain pipes) poses a threat to your health and safety.

It is possible for your tank to become overflowing with sediments, causing your drains to back up into your house or workplace when the inflow pipe (sewer pipe) becomes full.

If this drain pipe outlet (to the leach field or dry well) becomes clogged, it will cause a chain reaction that will cause sewage to back up the septic tank and into your home, perhaps causing sewage to back up into your home’s sinks and bathtubs.

  • When roots get access to your septic tank system, they will have access to a water source that will allow them to thrive.
  • Typically, roots will get access to your septic tank through fractures in the drain lines.
  • This can also happen to the output pipe if the pressure is too high.
  • Because the roots may be removed from the drain pipe from the outlet at your septic tank, this is not the end of the world.
  • Once the outlet drain line has been cleared of roots and unclogged, you may resume normal operations.
  • The drain pipe (outlet) is often made of schedule 30 pipe (thin wall).
  • If the ground is soft, you run the danger of damaging the outlet pipe, which may cause it to clog.

Because all of the solids will start to fill up in the dry well, leach field (drain field).

This is how I emphasize how critical it is to get your septic tank drained on a regular basis (every 3-4 years) as part of your regular maintenance.

The rid-x will aid in the digestion of solids (sewage), allowing the amount to be kept to a bare minimum.

It is advised to avoid using antibacterial soaps since they will kill the beneficial bacteria that you require in your septic tank.

So always remember that bacteria is your buddy when it comes to a septic tank; they are your tiny assist in keeping your septic tank in good working order.

If the ground around your leach-field or dray well is totally flooded with water, you may need to have a new drain-field or dry-well installed to prevent the land from becoming saturated again.

This is the same as if you had many days of heavy rain fall, the water table will rise dramatically, soaking the earth surrounding your dry wellleach field and forcing it to fail.

By switching the diverter valve to the opposite system, you will allow the other system time to dry out while you are utilizing the other system.

In Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Portage, Vicksburg, Climax, Plainwell, Richland, Otsego and Fulton Counties, we service blocked septic tanks and drain pipes.

Day or night, we are accessible for drain cleaning services for your blocked septic tank and drain pipes leading to your drain field (leach field) or dry well.

Drain Monkeys is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (269) 366-8087 to assist you when you need us. For more information about Drain Monkeys’ drain cleaning services, please see the company’s main page.

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  • A blocked septic tank can be caused by a variety of factors in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids as well as Three Rivers, Delton, Plainwell, Richland, Otsego, Climax, Vicksburg, Comstock, Plainwell, Athens, Union City, Burlington, and Albion in Michigan. Depending on the size of your family, Drain Monkeys recommended that you get your septic tank drained every 3 to 4 years, as a first step in maintaining your home. Once every four years, the septic tank should be pumped out for a household of three to four people. It is recommended by the health department that if your household has more than 4 members, you should have your tank pumped every 3 years. A clogged septic tank plumbing system (drain pipes) poses a threat to your health and safety. If you don’t get it pumped on a regular basis, you risk having a pipe flowing into the tank from your house, as well as a sewer main (inlet pipe) that dumps into your tank. It is possible for your tank to become overflowing with sediments, causing your drains to back up into your house or workplace when the entrance pipe (sewer pipe) becomes blocked. The sediments in your tank can back up into the outlet line (drain pipe) that leads to your dry well, leach field, or drain field, causing it to become blocked and unable to transport the grey water to your drain field or dry well properly. Whenever this drain pipe outlet (to the leach field or dry well) becomes clogged, it will cause a chain reaction that will cause sewage to back up through your home’s drains all the way up to the septic tank and back into your home. When roots enter the septic tank, inlet line, or exit pipe, they can produce a serious obstruction. As soon as roots get access to your septic tank system, they will have access to a water supply that will allow them to thrive. As a result, they will grow extremely densely within the drain pipes and septic tank system. In most cases, the roots will get access to your septic tank drain lines through fractures in the pipework. My own experience has been with septic tanks where roots have dangled down and covered the main drain (sewer pipe), the intake dumping into the tank, and the outlet dumping into the tank. If the outlet pipe is damaged, this might also occur. When the roots become too thick, they will clog the pipe, preventing sewage and gray water from entering the tank and gray water from exiting the septic tank, respectively. The presence of roots in the outlet pipe, which is located at the rear end of your septic tank and drains the grey water to your drain field or dry well, might cause the flow of grey water to be cut off. Because the roots may be removed from the drain pipe from the exit of your septic tank, this is not the end of the world. With theirRidgid K-750 or a portable hydro jet, Drain Monkeys has all of the tools needed to get rid of the roots. It’s time to get back to work after the outlet drain pipe has been cleared of roots. If drain Monkeys are unable to reach all the way through the pipe, you may need to have the pipe pulled up and re-installed. Most commonly, schedule 30 (thin walled) pipe is used for the drainpipe (outlet). If you have been driving over this drain pipe with heavy equipment, a truck, or a car, the drain pipe may collapse since it is a light weight pipe that is not designed to be driven over. If the ground is soft, you run the danger of damaging the outlet pipe, which may cause it to clog. The dry well and leach field (drain field) may get fully clogged if your septic tank is entirely overflowing with solids (sewage). Because the solids will begin to fill the dry well and drain field, obstructing both, there will be no where for the waste water to go. However, if you choose the path of least resistance, sewage will back up into your residence. When I talk about septic tank care, I make the point that it is critical to have your tank drained every 3-4 years on a planned basis. Because it will flow into the sewage main and into your septic tank, you should always dumpRID-Xdown your toilet. Using the rid-x, you may help maintain the level of solid waste (sewage) at a minimum. Tank bacteria is necessary because if you don’t have enough bacteria in the tank, your tank would need to be pumped at least once every few months if it didn’t clog first due to a buildup of sediments. You should avoid using antibacterial soaps since they will kill the beneficial bacteria that you require in your septic tank. If you don’t get your septic tank pumped regularly, the solids will fill up in your tank faster, causing it to clog more quickly. Always remember that bacteria is your buddy when it comes to a septic tank
  • They are your tiny assistant in keeping your septic tank in good working order. Due to a failure of the drain field or the dray well, the septic tank would clog due to the lack of a proper outlet for the grey water. If the ground around your leach-field or dray well is entirely flooded with water, you may need to have a new drain-field or dry-well erected to prevent the earth from becoming contaminated. When the snow melts, the water table in the earth will rise dramatically, which may be a contributing factor to a faulty system’s operation. If you have many days of heavy rain, the water table will rise dramatically, soaking the earth surrounding your dry wellleach field and forcing it to fail. A diverter valve should be placed if you are installing a new dray well or leach field since this will allow you to switch back and forth from the new system to the old one if the need should arise. By switching the diverter valve to the opposite system, you will allow the other system time to dry out while you are utilizing the opposite system. In order to avoid clogging, it is recommended that systems be switched every couple of years. In Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Portage, Vicksburg, Climax, Plainwell, Richland, Otsego and Fulton Counties, we service blocked septic tanks and drain pipes. We also service clogged drain pipes in Albion Counties. No matter what time of day or night it is, we can clear out your blocked septic tank and drainage pipes that go to your drain field (leach field) or dry well. Whenever you need us, call Drain Monkeys at (269) 366-8087. We are here day or night to assist you. Visit the Drain Monkeys website for more information on their drain cleaning services.
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SEPTIC PROBLEMS THAT CAN MIMIC DRAIN CLOGS

Your bathroom drains may be running slowly, and you may be thinking pouring some chemical drain cleaner down the drain to clear the clog. However, in these situations, rather than relying on potentially harmful drugs, it is always preferable to consult with medical specialists for a diagnosis. Instead of a simple clogged drain, you may be dealing with a plumbing vent problem, a sewer line problem, or a septic system problem instead. Learn about three septic issues that might manifest themselves in ways that are similar to drain obstructions.

  1. An entrance baffle and an output baffle are standard features of a septic tank.
  2. The intake baffle assists in the smooth entry of wastewater into the tank.
  3. This form of obstruction, like a drain clog, will cause drains to slow down or stop completely.
  4. 2.
  5. In addition, there is the pipe that runs from your house to the septic system.
  6. In addition to blockages, this main line is subject to earthquake damage, damage from huge machinery being driven over the region, and tree root damage, no matter what material it is constructed of.
  7. Failure of the Drainfield It is possible that some homeowners are unaware that septic systems have a limited lifespan.

For this reason, you must have a reserve leach field site set aside when installing your sewer system, as mandated by federal laws.

One occurs when a large amount of solid waste is introduced into your system, causing them to get clogged to the point where they must be replaced.

Compaction is another issue that can cause a leach field to fail prematurely if it is not addressed.

Due to the fact that the field’s functioning is dependent in part on bacteria that require air in the soil to survive, this might render the region unusable.

Some of the symptoms of these three septic illnesses might be mistaken for those of a normal plugged drain in some cases.

Consequently, if you feel your drains are slowing down, get a professional to come out and take care of the problem.

Contact Upstate Septic Tank, LLC as soon as possible if you are in need of a diagnostic visit, sewer line cleaning, or a septic system cleaning and pumping. We’ll be pleased to assist you in keeping your septic system in the best possible condition.

3 Things to Prevent Septic System Drain Blockage in Your Home

Your bathroom drains may be running slowly, and you may be thinking pouring some chemical drain cleaning down the toilet. Instead of relying on harmful substances in these situations, it is always preferable to consult with specialists for a diagnosis. A clogged drain might be the result of a plumbing vent problem, a sewer line problem, or a septic system problem. clogged drain You will learn about three types of septic issues that might manifest themselves in ways that are similar to clogged drains.

  1. Baffles are found on both the entrance and the outflow sides of a standard septic tank.
  2. Water entering the tank is made easier by using an input baffle to prevent it from backing up.
  3. Drains will be slowed or completely stopped due to this sort of obstruction.
  4. Damage to the Pipes However, the lines to the leach field are not the only pipes that might get blocked and cause a system to fail.
  5. When it comes to older systems, this pipe is generally formed of clay piping, which is known as the main sewer line.
  6. Clay pipe, on the other hand, is exceedingly fragile and contains joints that are easily penetrated by tree roots, making it more vulnerable to damage than other forms of piping.
  7. A common misconception among homeowners is that sewage systems have a limited useful life.

In order to avoid this, while you’re building your septic system, you must have a reserve leach field location set aside.

One happens when a large amount of solid waste is introduced into your system, causing it to get clogged to the point where it needs to be repaired or replaced completely.

Compaction is another issue that might lead to the failure of the leach field too early.

In addition, because bacteria, which require air in the soil to survive, are essential for the field’s operation, this might render the region inoperable.

Sometimes the signs and symptoms of one of these three septic conditions might be mistaken for those of an ordinary backed-up drain.

Consequently, if you notice sluggish drains, get a professional to come out and take care of the problem.

Whether you require a diagnostic visit, a sewer line cleaning, or a septic system cleaning and pumping, call Upstate Septic Tank, LLC, as quickly as possible. Please allow us to assist you in maintaining the health of your septic system.

Clogged Drain vs. Septic Backup

Drains in your business or house are draining slowly and/or regularly clogging. If you have an onsite waste disposal system, such as a septic tank system, the problem must be properly recognized and addressed. A clogged drain or a sluggish drain may frequently be remedied by removing the plumbing backlog that has built up inside the structure. You can be wasting your time and money, though, if the issue is with your septic tank and you are trying to tackle the wrong problem. What are you going to do?

However, it is prudent to examine and locate the issue location first – as it is possible that the problem is not located within the structure.

We have a great deal of expertise with all types of drain vs septic field concerns, as well as economical septic tank repair.

Plumbing Drain Noises

Whether you believe it or not, plumbing drain sounds might assist you in locating the root of a problem. It’s possible that the “blub glub” sounds coming from a drain where water is flowing is indicative of a problem with:

  • Drain venting issue caused by a partial drain obstruction, which forces the water through a limited region, resulting in a hiss or blub sound. A gurgling sound can be produced by plumbing vents that are insufficient (or altogether absent). As a result of confined air or a partial vacuum, there is insufficient free flow. Drain venting may be the source of gurgling at the sink or shower drain only when a neighboring fixture is in operation, such as when a toilet is flushed. Noises coming from the plumbing drains that do not interfere with operation. Some pipe materials are more susceptible to noise transmission than others. Plastic drain piping has a distinct sound from cast iron drain plumbing. The answer is good sound insulation, but you need hire a professional plumber to locate the source of the sound or noises and install the appropriate type of insulation at the appropriate locations
  • “unusual solutions” amateur plumbing are not recommended. If an inexperienced handyman attempts to solve a plumbing problem using non-standard remedies such as running waste lines inside the building at strange angles, which battle against gravity and result in noise and pools of stagnant water that accelerate corrosion or leaks at joints, he may be held liable. A sewage gas odor may also be produced, which can be detected at the fixture itself.

If a single fixture in the building is sluggish or blocked, but the rest of the fixtures are functioning normally, the problem is most likely not with your septic tank. A clog in the waste or soil stack (drains from sinks or toilets) is the source of the problem, and here is the first place to look for solutions. If the drains in your whole home are slow or blocked, or if waste is backing up into the lowest-elevation plumbing fixtures, the septic tank or field should be suspected.

Septic System Issues

If a single fixture in the building is sluggish or blocked, but the rest of the fixtures are functioning normally, the problem is most likely not with your septic tank. A clog in the waste or soil stack (drains from sinks or toilets) is the source of the problem, and here is the first place to look for it. Septic tanks and fields should be suspected if your entire house drains slowly or becomes blocked, or if waste is backing up into your lowest-elevation plumbing fixtures.

  • If a single fixture in the building is sluggish or blocked, but the rest of the fixtures are working correctly, the problem is most likely not with your septic tank. It is a blockage in the waste stack or soil stack (drains from sinks or toilets), and that is the first location to solve. If the drains in your whole house are slow or blocked, or if waste is backing up into the lowest-elevation plumbing fixtures, the septic tank or field should be suspected.

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If you have ever had to deal with a clogged drain, you are aware that the cleanup procedure is anything but enjoyable. Sewage line blockages are often caused by an obstruction in the pipes or when the septic pipe levels out and prevents gravity from conducting its work.

Symptoms of a Clogged Drain

In virtually all cases, when you have a clogged drain or pipe, you will feel at least one of two symptoms. An foul odor emanating from the sink, toilet, drain, or other plumbing fixture almost always indicates the presence of something as unpleasant impeding the course through the pipes.

In sinks, it is almost always food that is the source of congestion. In toilets, it’s possible that someone flushed something they shouldn’t have, or that they truly emptied and should have used a mid-session flush instead of the first flush.

2. Water Going the Wrong Way

Most people will feel at least one of the following two symptoms when they have a plugged drain or pipe: An foul odor emanating from the sink, toilet, drain, or other plumbing fixture almost always indicates the presence of something similarly nasty impeding the course of the pipe’s contents. In sinks, it is almost always food that is the source of the congestion. In toilets, it’s possible that someone flushed something they shouldn’t have or that they truly emptied and should have used a mid-session flush instead of the first flush.

Tips for Clearing a Clogged Drain

Before you call a septic company, there are a few things you may do to try to unclog your drain on your own that may be successful.

1. Avoid cleaners with chemicals

Chemical-laden cleansers have a tendency to degrade the enzymes in your septic system, which are designed to aid in the degradation of waste. Instead, use a drain cleaner that is suitable for septic systems and does not include any harsh chemicals. A professional cleaner should always be kept on call in the event of an emergency.

2. Pour hot water down the drain.

The surge of hot water, particularly in kitchen sinks, is typically sufficient to dislodge or dissolve any clog in the pipes. Check to see whether boiling water might be of assistance before seeking expert assistance.

3. Use baking soda and vinegar.

If water alone is ineffective in dissolving the obstruction, a baking soda and vinegar reaction may be used to achieve success. Pour a couple spoonfuls of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar, then flush the toilet. The fizzy explosion aids in the breakdown of waste and the restoration of normal flow. The fact that you are unable to unblock the blocked drain by yourself might indicate that the problem has reached a deeper level. An impediment other than food might be blocking one or more septic system pipes, which could be collapsing.

Septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services are provided by Norway Septic Inc., a service-oriented company devoted to delivering outstanding septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to households and business owners throughout the Michiana area.

Septic systems are something we are very familiar with, and we can handle just about any septic problem, including a clogged drain or septic line, thanks to our 40 years of experience.

who should you call for septic issues?

Septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services are provided by Norway Septic Inc., a service-oriented company devoted to delivering outstanding septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to households and business owners throughout the Michiana area. “We take great delight in finishing the task that others have left unfinished.” “They pump, we clean!” says our company’s motto. If you believe that your septic system is having troubles, or if you require septic replacement components such as septic filters, please contact us right once.

Our affiliate connections to these items generate a small profit for us if you decide to purchase them via our links. We opted to utilize affiliate links so that we could legally obtain product images and because not everyone is able to discover septic-friendly items on their own.

How to Unclog Your Septic Tank

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation In the event that you have slow drains, pooling water in your yard, or foul aromas near your septic system, it is possible that one of the pipes has become clogged. Fortunately, there are several methods for removing blockages from your sewage system that do not require the services of a septic service specialist. To begin, search for any apparent obstructions inside your septic tank and try if you can drive them out with a little force.

See also:  What Happens If Septic Tank Fills Up? (Question)

Following the removal of the blockage, be sure to properly maintain the septic system in order to keep it clean!

  1. 1 Check the inflow pipe by lifting the access cover of the tank that is nearest to your residence. The plastic or concrete cover in your yard that is closest to your house should be the first place you look. Carefully raise the cover of the tank up and away from the tank so that you can see what’s within. If you notice a white or green pipe at the end of the tank closest to your home, look for anything that could be blocking the pipe’s outlet. If there is, it is possible that the blockage is the source of the problem.
  • Assuming the water level is below the level of the entrance pipe, the blockage might be located in the drain pipe that runs between the septic tank and your residence. If the water level is higher than the inlet but there is nothing blocking the end of the pipe, the clog is most likely in the leach field
  • However, this is not always the case. It may be necessary to dig up the access lid with a shovel or raise it with a pry bar in order to get access.
  • Advice: If you are unable to locate the access lid for your septic system, consult with your home’s as-built plans, which are blueprints prepared after your home is constructed, or with a professional septic service. 2 If the scum is trapped at the end of the input pipe, use a pole or a stick to push it out of the way. The scum layer is composed of solid waste that accumulates on the surface of the septic tank. Make use of a long, strong piece of wood or metal to slide the scum down or to the side of the entrance pipe as needed. Continue to remove as much scum as you can from the area around the pipe so that it can continue to fill your tank.
  • If you are working in your septic tank, you should always wear gloves to prevent bacteria and waste from getting on your hands. If water starts to flow out of the pipe after you’ve pushed the scum out of the way, you’ve successfully eliminated the clog.
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  • s3 If the blockage is deeper inside the pipe, use the pole or stick to probe the end of the pipe. Insert the end of the stick or pole you’re using as far as it will go into the end of the pipe you’re working with. Make use of the end of your probe to scrape the edges of the pipe and draw any waste from the pipe into the tank. Even if the clog is at the very end of the pipe, you should be able to dislodge it and get the water flowing once again. It is likely that the clog is located deeper inside the pipe if water does not flow out of it.
  • Depending on where the pipe is located, you may or may not be able to insert your probe into the pipe.
  • 4 Disinfect any instruments you used by mixing a 5:1 solution of water and bleach together. Stir up 1 part chlorine bleach and 5 parts clean water in a big bucket until the chlorine bleach is completely dissolved. Immerse your tools in the solution and allow them to soak for around 5 minutes to destroy any germs that may have remained on the surface. When you’re finished, drain the liquid back into your septic tank.
  • If at all possible, take a shower or bath as soon as possible after working on your septic tank
  • When you wash your garments, use bleach or laundry sanitizer to ensure that no bacteria is left on them after washing.
  • 5 If you were able to resolve the issue, replace the access lid on the septic tank. Lift the lid and place it over the opening that leads into the septic tank to prevent it from closing. Slowly drop the lid down until it fully covers the hole and does not move around any more. Continue to leave the lid open in order to insert a mechanical auger if you haven’t removed the blockage.
  • Never leave the septic tank door open while you aren’t working on it to prevent anything from falling into the tank.
  • Make sure that the septic tank is never left open while you aren’t working on it so that nothing falls into it.
  • Having a septic tank pumped typically costs between $75 and $200 USD, depending on the size of the tank and the amount of waste that has to be removed. Every 3–5 years, or whenever the tank becomes full, have your septic tank cleaned and emptied.
  1. In order to get to the inflow line, you must first remove the septic tank access lid that is closest to your residence. Because the intake pipe is more likely to be located on the access lid nearest to your home, if your septic tank has multiple access lids, select the one that is closest to your home. Using your hands, lift or pull the tank’s cover off and set it aside while you continue to work. Inside your tank, look for the end of a white or green pipe that protrudes from the side that is closest to your house.
  • If you are unsure about the location of your tank’s access lids, consult your home’s as-built plans or consult a professional service.
  • 2 Insert the cutting blade of a mechanical auger into the jammed pipe’s end with the auger’s handle. A mechanical auger is comprised of a long metal cable that is inserted into your pipes and equipped with a revolving bit that cuts through the obstruction. Begin at the end of the blocked pipe or at an access point for the pipe, such as a cleanout port, to unclog the blockage. Placing the cutting blade of the auger inside the obstructed pipe and pushing the line in around 1–2 feet (30–61 cm) can clear the blockage.
  • It is possible to purchase a mechanical auger either online or from a local hardware shop. Investigate whether your local hardware shop provides equipment rentals to see if you can borrow an auger for the day without having to pay the whole price
  • 3 Before you turn on the auger, make sure you have on your safety glasses and work gloves. Because mechanical augers feature spinning and moving elements, it is important to wear eye protection to avoid injuring yourself if you lose control of the machine while working. Wearing heavy-duty work gloves can help you prevent spreading germs and being harmed when handling the line. The auger should be connected to the nearest electrical outlet and the switch should be in the On or Forward position.
  • It’s possible that you’ll require an extension cord to connect the mechanical auger. You should never use the auger without wearing gloves or wearing safety eyewear since you might suffer a serious injury. Because the auger would spin violently if you start it with the cutting end outside of the pipe, you should never do so.
  • 4) Continue to feed the auger deeper into the pipe until the obstruction is broken apart. Holding the auger’s line with both hands, guide it into the pipe until you encounter resistance if necessary. Try rotating the line in your hands to see how far it will travel within the pipe if the resistance feels substantial. It is possible that it has encountered a curve in the pipe. To drive the obstruction apart if this is not possible, use short, back and forth strokes to push and pull the auger. Continue to force the auger into the blocked piece of pipe until it is able to pass smoothly through it
  • If you successfully clear the clog, water will begin to flow through the pipe again while you are still inside it with the auger. Mechanical augers are available in a variety of lengths, so if the one you’re currently using isn’t long enough to reach the blockage, consider renting the next largest size.
  • Keep at least one hand on the auger’s line while it is operating to ensure that it does not spin or rotate while you are trying to feed it. Before removing the auger from the pipe, be sure it is turned off. Make sure that the auger’s power switch is in the Off or Reverse position so that you can easily remove it from the ground. With both hands, gently guide the auger’s line back into the container, then slowly bring it back through the pipe to the other end. Using a hose or paper towel, carefully remove the auger end out of the pipe and clear off any dirt or trash that has become lodged on the end.
  • It is not advisable to remove the auger from the pipe while it is still operating since it might cause injury. Remember not to touch the auger’s line with your bare hands because it has just passed through a pipe that contains garbage and potentially deadly bacteria.
  • 6 The tools should be cleaned with a solution made up of 5 parts water and 1 part bleach. Stir the solution together by pouring 1 part chlorine bleach and 5 parts clean water into a bucket and mixing thoroughly. Clean the end of the auger with a cleaning rag to eliminate any germs that may have remained on the surface and avoid contaminating other parts of the machine. You should drain the solution into your septic tank after you’re finished
  • Don’t flush the cleaning solution down the toilet since it contains bacteria from your septic tank that are dangerous.
  1. 7Remove the septic tank’s cover and replace it. Lift the lid off the ground by grabbing it by the handles or the sides of the container. Lift and carefully drop the lid back onto the opening going into your sewage treatment system until it is completely enclosed. Make sure the lid does not slip or shift in any way, or otherwise it may break loose and fall off the septic tank. Advertisement
  1. 1 Other than water and natural garbage, avoid dumping anything else down your drains. Water, human waste, and toilet paper are the only things that septic tanks are designed to handle
  2. Thus, any additional products can cause the entire system to get clogged. To avoid clogging pipes, place paper towels, wet wipes, food scraps, and other solid waste in the ordinary garbage instead of in the recycling container. Make it clear to other people in your home what they can and cannot flush down the toilet to avoid clogging the drains and pipes.
  • Using strong chemical cleansers down your drain is not recommended due to the possibility that they can destroy the natural bacteria in your septic tank that is responsible for decomposition of solid waste. You should never pour cooking oil down the drain because it might harden in the pipes and cause blockages that are difficult to clear.
  • As a reminder, you do not need to add any additional natural enzymes or bacteria to your septic tank in order for it to properly break down solid waste. Any additional enzymes will be ineffective in comparison to the enzymes that naturally present in the tank
  • 2 Reduce the amount of water you use in your home so that the septic system can drain correctly. Avoid running water in your home until absolutely necessary, since doing so may cause the tank to fill up too rapidly and overflow. Use as little water as possible when bathing or cleaning, so that you only have as much as is necessary at any one time. In the event that you have any outdated or leaking fixtures, you should repair them or replace them with more energy-efficient systems, such as toilets that flush less water or faucets with aerators.
  • It will also save you money on your utility bills if you keep your water consumption to a minimum.
  • 3 Avoid driving or planting over the area where your septic tank is located. Heavy weight can cause pipes going from your septic tank to collapse or break, so if at all possible, avoid driving over the region in a vehicle as much as possible. Plant roots can also grow into the pipes or septic tank, causing them to clog more quickly than they otherwise would. Maintain a distance of at least 20–30 feet (6.1–9.1 m) between your septic system and any trees or plants you intend to plant so that the roots are not able to grow within.
  • Even if you use a mechanical auger to remove the roots out of your pipes, the roots will come back if the problem is not addressed. Root barriers purchased from gardening supply stores destroy roots on touch and can help to prevent overgrowth in your septic system. To protect your septic system from pipes, dig a trench around it that is 2 feet (61 cm) deep and 3 feet (91 cm) away from them. Make sure that you place the root barrier in the trench vertically before you fill the trench back up with earth.
  • 4 Improve drainage by cleaning the effluent filter located on the outflow pipe. The effluent filter is a plastic cylinder that is installed in the exit line of your septic tank to prevent solid waste from escaping. Make sure the tank closest to your home has an access cover that can be opened. Look for a vertical white or green pipe that holds the filter and protrudes through the top layer of scum on the interior of the filter. Remove the filter from the vertical pipe by pulling it straight out and rinsing the waste back into the tank using a hose. Push the filter back into the pipe so that it may continue to prevent waste from escaping
  • Not every septic system will be equipped with an effluent filter
  • However, most will. Check your filter every time you have your tank pumped or examined to ensure that it does not become clogged.
  1. 5. Have a professional inspection of your septic tank performed once every three years. Septic tanks typically take 3–5 years to fill, however this might vary based on the size of the tank and the quantity of water it receives. Consult with a professional provider to have the water levels and pipes for your system checked to determine if any adjustments are necessary. If the provider has any issues, you should solve them as quickly as possible to avoid having a malfunctioning septic system later on. Advertisement
See also:  How Much To Sink A Septic Tank In Orlando? (Solution found)

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  • Question What is the location of your septic tank? David Balkan is a writer who lives in New York City. A professional plumber and the CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main David Balkan is a licensed professional plumber who also serves as the CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service and the President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning, among other positions. With over 40 years of experience as an active owner of these businesses, David is well-versed in the challenges that arise with water service lines, sewers, and drain lines. David has served on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for more than 30 years and is now the Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council’s Committee on Plumbing. As a result of his expertise and solution-oriented approach, Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service has grown to become the biggest and most trusted sewer and water main service in New York City, and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award. Answer from a Professional PlumberCEO of Balkan SewerWater MainExpert Because they have to be pumped out on a regular basis, they usually have clean outs that are visible to the public. The quickest and most straightforward method is to discover your major house trap or clean out. Typically, the first tank would be 15 feet or somewhat more away from the outer wall of your home because it is frequently the very minimum distance that is needed by building codes. Once you’ve identified your primary cleaner or trap, you may utilize the instruments that experts employ. Their electronic pipe tracing equipment may be inserted into your main sewer line, allowing them to find and locate where the tanks are located. Question Is it harmful to my septic tank to use too much Rid X at one time? Using excessive amounts of Rid X will have no negative consequences. Question Is it possible that heavy rains or storms might cause difficulties for my septic system? Daniel and Robin KirbyAnswer from the Community Identifying a concave indention over your field lines or over your septic tank is important if you’re experiencing troubles every time it pours rain. Because of this, water can accumulate directly on top of your field lines, resulting in an overflowing sewer system. To correct it, just fill up the sunken sections with concrete. A short hill in the middle, sloping down to normal grade on both sides of the field line for approximately two feet, may correct this
  • Nevertheless, Question Is there a natural enzyme, such as dry yeast, that may be utilized instead of paying for expensive enzyme treatments or having a septic system that has only been used by one person pumped out? The man that came to service our septic system had a lot of expertise. He informed me that we could save money by simply adding a package of standard yeast to the mix once or twice a month, rather of buying special yeast. I buy the store brand (which costs 79 cents a packet) and flush a couple of packets every month down the bathroom sink. That is all there is to it. Question What is the best product to use in the toilet to protect my septic system from damage? Daniel as well as Robin Kirby Community Answer Although there is enough of food for your bacteria in a septic tank, it dies due to a lack of oxygen, therefore if you add additional bacteria, they will die practically as soon as they are flushed out with the wastewater. A treatment plant, where oxygen is fed into the tank, may increase the number of bacteria from the millions that exist in a septic tank to billions when both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria can grow! Having said that, treatment plants should be drained out more frequently than septic tanks, according to industry standards. Question In the case of a septic system, what can I use to unclog a clogged sink drain? For myself, I prefer to use a plastic drain snake. It is a plastic ribbon with little barbs that grip anything is obstructing your drain and pulls it out of the way (usually hair). While they are inexpensive and quite effective, they are also a bit dirty
  • Question When my septic tank becomes clogged with oil and hair bleaching chemicals, what should I do to clear it out? No oil or grease should be flushed down the toilet or into the septic system. Put it in a grease can and toss it out of the window. As far as bleach is concerned, it destroys the microorganisms that your septic system requires in order to function properly. You might wish to look into septic-safe items
  • They are available.

Question The location of your septic tank is important to know. David Balkan is a writer and musician from the United Kingdom. Professional PlumberCEO of Balkan SewerWater Main Construction David Balkan is a licensed professional plumber who also serves as the CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service and the President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning, among other roles. With over 40 years of experience as an active owner of these businesses, David is well-versed in the challenges that arise with water service lines, sewers, and drain lines.

  1. It is because of his expertise and solution-oriented attitude that Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service has grown to become the largest and most trusted service in New York City, and he was named to Angie’s List’s 2017 Super Service Awards list.
  2. The quickest and most straightforward method is to find your primary house trap or clean out.
  3. The equipment that experts employ are available once you have identified your primary cleaner or trap.
  4. Excess Rid X will have no negative consequences.
  5. The Kirbys (Daniel and Robin Kirby) provided the community response.
  6. Consequently, your field lines will be inundated as a result of the water sitting directly on top of them.
  7. This problem may be solved by building up an artificial hill at the field line and sloping it down to normal grade for about two feet on both sides of the field line.

Many years of experience were evident in the man who performed septic system maintenance on our property.

When I buy the store brand (79 cents a packet), I only have to flush a handful of packets every month.

Question What is the best product to use in the toilet to protect my septic system from harm?

This is due to a shortage of oxygen in the tank.

Although this is the case, treatment plants should be pumped out at least once every three months rather than once every six months.

A plastic drain snake is what I choose to utilize for my own purposes.

While they are inexpensive and quite effective, they are also a bit dirty.

The septic system should not be polluted with grease or oil.

Using a grease can, collect the waste and dispose of it properly. Regarding bleach, it destroys the microorganisms that your septic system requires to decompose the waste it receives. Look into septic-safe cleaning products if you haven’t already;

  • Unless you are skilled in septic tank unclogging or there is significant damage to the pipes, you should hire a septic specialist to conduct the necessary repairs for you to guarantee that everything is in compliance with the law. When working on your septic tank, always use protective eyewear and disposable gloves to prevent contamination.

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Things You’ll Need

  • Hose
  • Paper towel
  • Mechanical auger
  • Safety glasses
  • Work gloves

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A blocked septic system can be caused by a clogged septic tank effluent filter, a clogged drain line leading to your septic tank, or a damaged outlet baffle, among other things. The first step in diagnosing a septic system backlog is to determine where the clog is located. Every year, millions of Americans rely on septic tanks to help them rid their houses of toxic biohazard products and wastewater that could otherwise be released into the environment. While a septic system is normally trouble-free as long as it receives periodic maintenance services, it is possible that a blockage will develop at some point.

  • The majority of clogged septic systems may be cleared up with a routine pumping tank clean out.
  • In addition to clearing any masses that are creating a septic tank obstruction, high-pressure jetting may be used to clean pipe walls and remove anything that may create future blockages in the system.
  • Septic Medic’s key goals are quality and customer service.
  • Septic Medic may be contacted online or by phone at 570-828-7444 for septic tank maintenance, pumping, and repair services for your septic system.

Steps to Troubleshoot Sewage BackupClogged Drains

However, while the issue is most frequently caused by garbage or material that has collected over time, having the ability to check out the system as a whole, your interior plumbing, and the external environment for more severe concerns is a smart idea.

  1. You’ll want to look into the history of blockages in a specific spot in your house, such as a sink or a toilet, to see whether or not the pipe is connected to a bigger septic drain line so you can figure out where the backlog or smell is coming from. Make a flushable inventory of the following items: The fact that you cannot treat your septic system the same way you would treat a public sewer system is something that many people do not know or remember. Common home products such as “flushable wipes” and other non-septic tank compatible materials, such as paper towels, are difficult to break down and can clog pipes or cause blockages in septic tanks. Over time, they can accumulate to the point where there is a big mass that cannot be broken down, and you will need to have your septic system pumped out. Certain cleaning chemicals, such as those used to clean your toilet, sink, or shower, might be hazardous to your health. Some chemicals can deplete the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, resulting in more difficult problems down the road. A septic system inspection by Septic Medic’s professionally trained personnel will identify any home items or chemicals that you are using and inform you whether these products or chemicals are generating blockages or impairing the functioning of your septic system. Use a sewage line camera to inspect the line: When a professional septic tank technician inspects the tank and system using a camera, he or she may look for damage or obstructions in the drain lines. Examine the septic tank filters: Water entering your tank might get clogged by floating solid waste or a buildup of sludge in the tank’s intake and outflow drains. Pumping your septic tank on a regular basis might help to avoid sludge levels from increasing and clogging the filters. Outlet baffles are used to move wastewater out from the septic tank and towards the leach field
  2. If they get clogged, this can cause pipe obstructions and premature system failure. Inspect the plumbing and fittings in the home: If it is found that all of the pipes going to the septic tank outside are unobstructed, the next step is to inspect the plumbing within the structure or residence itself for obstructions. This entails inspecting different plumbing fittings throughout the house, including those on the main floor and any above floors. Take a look outside: An additional step that can be taken to establish the source of the problem is to look outside the residence. Trees with thick roots that may be pushing or exerting pressure on subterranean pipelines should be avoided at all costs. Also examine the leach field to determine if there is any standing water that is preventing it from draining properly.

Septic Emergency? Contact us immediately at570-828-7444

Additional Septic Services include the following:

  • Repair of septic tanks, septic system maintenance, and septic system repair Replace a septic tank
  • Conduct soil and percolation tests
  • Provide a septic emergency response service.

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