Preventing Septic Drainfield Failures

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Drain Field
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The drainfield  is one of the most expensive components of a septic system, both during the initial installation and for repairs. Once a drainfield is in place, it’s in a homeowner’s best interest to ensure  the drainfield isn’t compromised by a poorly functioning or maintained septic tank, filter and aerator.  By keeping your entire septic system maintained, you can avoid expensive drain field failures and keep your entire system working smoothly for years to come.

Maintaining A Healthy Drainfield

To keep your drainfield working properly and to prevent failures, one of the most important factors is keeping your bio-mat in balance. The bio-mat is the biological mat that accumulates in the bottom and sides of your drainfield trench. This “mat” is made up of  microorganisms which live in organic material found in the septic wastewater. If the bio-mat becomes too thick, or out of balance, it can stop absorption into the drainfield soil below, causing a drainfield failure or septic backup.

To keep the bio-mat balanced , your septic tank must be maintained. Septic tank problems can cause excess organic material to be diverted into the drainfield, giving the bio-mat the food it needs to grow. Some of the ways to prevent septic tank problems that can lead to excessive organic materials are:

  • Regular septic tank pumping
  • Prevent harsh chemicals, like bleach and other cleaners, from getting into your septic system
  • Keep grease and fats out of drains
  • Have regular maintenance performed on septic tank, filters and aerators

The best way to protect your drainfield is to watch what materials you allow to go into the septic system and to maintain your septic tank. If it has been more than a year since you have had your septic system inspected or serviced, call your local septic professional now to schedule an appointment.

Posted on behalf of Mike Smith, A-Flo Free Septic

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Slow Drains Can Mean Sewer Line Problems

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Drain Cleaning
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We have all experienced a sink or bathtub that drains slowly. Most of the time, slow draining is a plumbing problem, usually a clog in the pipes under the offending water fixture. However, in some cases, slow drains can be an indication of a larger, more serious sewer line issue. If you have a clogged sewer line, it may be backing up sewer water into your home, causing the slow drain.

When A Slow Drain Indicates Sewer Line Problems

If a sewer line is clogged or not draining wastewater efficiently, one of the signs are slow-moving drains. However, it is unlikely that a sink on the second floor of your house will be where the problem starts. Since sewer lines use gravity, the lowest point in your home will be the first place where you can expect to experience slow draining due to a sewer line problem. This could be a bathroom fixture on the first level of your home, such as a toilet, bathtub or sink, most likely more than one.

If your slow drain is due to a problem in your sewer lines, it could be something as simple as a clog. It could also mean your sewer lines have become flat, no longer having the decline necessary for wastewater to flow efficiently. Another possible scenario is a cracked or broken pipe. Whatever the issue, you will need to get the problem resolved before your sewer lines stop working altogether.

Your local sewer professional can perform an inspection to find out exactly what and where the problem is in your  sewer lines. Most companies now use camera inspections to view what is happening below the surface inside your sewer pipes, making it fast and easy to find and fix the problem.

Posted on behalf of Mike Smith, A-Flo Free Septic

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Spring Cleaning For Your Septic Pipes

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Drain Cleaning
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Your septic system needs regular maintenance to function properly, including cleaning your septic lines outside of your home. Over the years, debris, waste and even outside invaders like tree roots can begin to clog your sewer pipes. It’s only a matter of time before the lines become clogged, backing up sewer waste into your home. This spring, give your sewer lines the cleaning they need with a hydrojetting service.

What Is Hydrojetting?

Many plumbing and septic companies offer a service called hydro jetting, which can safely clean and clear your septic lines. This technique uses high pressured water to remove built-up debris inside of your underground sewer pipes. The pressured water is able to remove all types of materials which can line your pipes without the use of harmful chemicals. Some of the benefits of using this service include:

  • Faster draining pipes. If you have begun to notice slow draining in your home, clearing your septic pipes may alleviate this problem.
  • Prevent tree root damage. Hyrdojetting can remove small tree roots that have grown into your sewer lines. Removing these roots now can prevent them from cracking your pipes which can lead to expensive repair or replacement.
  • Prevent emergency sewer backups. There is never a good time to have a sewer back-up. Prevent future clogs by clearing out accumulated waste now.

Preventative cleaning of your sewer pipes can save you money on expensive sewer problems down the road. It can also reduce the corrosion of older clay or cement pipes, extending the life of your sewer lines. Call your local plumbing or septic company today to schedule your hydrojetting service!

Posted on behalf of Seagraves Plumbing Septic and Sewer

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Is A Water Softener Harmful To Septic Systems?

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Drain Field
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If you live in an area with hard water and also have a septic system, you may have heard conflicting information on whether to using a water softener is harmful to your septic. There are good points on both sides of the argument; however, most of the negative points against using a water softener with a septic system are based on older models of water softeners. The short answer is yes, water softeners can affect your septic system. That being said, there are ways to minimize the effects so that you can enjoy the benefits of softened water and maintain a healthy septic system.

Water Softeners Effects On Septic Systems

The biggest concern with water softeners on septic systems is the large amount of water discharged when the softener regenerates. This can be up to 150 gallons of water, depending on the type and size of the water softener. This surge in water use can cause a backlash on the septic system, pushing partially treated water out into the drainfield before it is ready. This can add to the growth of biomat and eventually lead to septic backups or drain field failures.

However, there are some solutions to this issue. First, most newer models of water softeners only regenerate based on water used, unlike older models which regenerated based on a timed system. This can reduce the number of regenerations and negative effects on the septic. Another solution is to drain the discharged water from the regeneration process outside of the septic if it is allowed under your local municipality or county codes.

If you have a water softener or are considering adding one, talk to your local septic professional on what is the best way to protect your septic system. They can offer advice on what is the safest way to add a water softener without jeopardizing your investment in your septic system.

Posted on behalf of Tony McAdams, A-1 National Sewer and Drain

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Considering Converting From Septic To Sewer?

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
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If you own a home with a septic system, it was most likely installed before a municipal sewer system was available in your neighborhood. Most people would prefer to use a sewer system, shifting the responsibility and potentially high costs to their local municipality, but it’s not always an option. However, as towns grow, so does the reach of the sewer system, giving many people with septic systems the option to convert their septic to the local sewer.

Septic To Sewer Conversion Process

Switching your home’s septic to sewer has many benefits, from long term savings to less maintenance. The biggest hurdle that most homeowners face with septic to sewer conversions is the initial cost to convert. There will be an investment to tie your home into the sewer line, so many people will wait until their septic system is older or in need of repair before they make the switch. Once you decide to convert, you will need to find a reliable sewer service professional who can install your new sewer lines, as this it not a do-it-yourself project. Questions to ask contractors before you hire them include:

  • How long the process will take?
  • What permits will be needed to begin the process?
  • Will you need a pump tank for your sewer line?
  • What is the total cost to install the new line and remove the old septic tank?

You want a contractor who is familiar with all the local municipality rules and regulations regarding sewer conversions. Your new sewer line will need to be inspected and approved before you can be hooked into the municipal system, on top of obtaining the proper permits to begin digging. An experienced sewer line installer should know exactly what needs to be done to get your new sewer line approved and connected as quickly as possible.

Posted on behalf of Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.

 

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New Irrigation System? You May Need A Backflow Prevention Device

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Backflow Prevention
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This is the time of year when many homeowners are dreaming of a lush, green lawn for the summer months ahead. If you are considering the installation of a new irrigation system to facilitate the growth of a beautiful lawn or have already done so, you may need to also install a backflow prevention device into your water lines. These devices are used to protect the water supply from potential contamination that can occur when water from your lawn irrigation backs up into the pipes. Preventing backflow from your irrigation is not just a responsibility; in many towns it is also the law.

Who Needs A BackFlow Prevention Device

Backflow from an irrigation system is dangerous, due to the possibility of chemicals and other dangerous contaminants from your lawn entering the water supply. In many municipalities, a backflow prevention device may be required at your home. Backflow can occur due to the home having higher water pressure than the municipal water system. This can be caused by high water usage, such as when a home has an irrigation system or when there is a broken pipe affecting the water pressure. A backflow prevention device prevents the water from flowing back into the pipes, protecting the water supply in these situations.

Many sewer and plumbing professionals offer backflow prevention device installation and testing. If you have an irrigation system or are planning to have one installed, you should contact an experienced contractor to discuss getting a backflow prevention device installed before you begin using your irrigation system this summer. It can protect your family, and even other families in your community, from exposure to harmful chemicals in the water supply.

Posted on behalf of Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.

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Aerobic Versus Anaerobic Septic Systems

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
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If you are replacing an old septic system or installing a new one, you may be wondering what the difference is between aerobic and anaerobic systems. While most residential homes use an aerobic septic system, most municipal sewage water treatment operations use anaerobic systems. The biggest difference is the use of oxygen in the bacteria breakdown process, which aerobic uses and anaerobic does not. This crucial difference changes the speed, efficiency and price between the two systems dramatically. 

Anaerobic Septic Systems

The most common septic system used for residential homes is the anaerobic system, due to its affordability and ease of use. This system relies on a two step process for water treatment, first treating the wastewater in the septic tank, then diverting the effluent to the drain or leach field for further filtering. This is a slow process, which can lead to backups in the system when there is heavy use.

Aerobic Septic Systems

The reason that most municipalities in the United States use aerobic water treatment for sewer waste is efficiency. Although these systems are more expensive, they are faster than anaerobic systems and result in cleaner wastewater. Effluent leaving an aerobic system is about 98% clean, versus usually less than 65% with an anaerobic system. Although mostly used commercially, these systems are also available for residential use.

For many homeowners buying a new septic system, budget is a major concern. The traditional anaerobic system will do the job sufficiently, plus they are usually much less expensive and easier to maintain. However, for large households, it may be worth the investment in an aerobic system that can process waste faster and more efficiently, reducing the frequency of potential backups and septic service problems.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

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Sump Pumps Versus Ejector Pumps Problems

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps
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Most homes with a basement will have at least a sump pump, with many also having an ejector pump. Although these pumps are similar, they have very different purposes. As a homeowner, it is important to understand the difference so that when something goes wrong with either pump, you have an easier time troubleshooting and finding a solution to the problem.

Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are used in many homes to keep ground water that surrounds the home’s foundation out of the basement. Typically a sump pump is in a cylindrical-shaped enclosure in the floor, called the sump basin, which is connected to the drain tile system. Ground water collects in the sump basin until the level of water triggers the sump pump’s float device. Once the float is triggered, the sump pump is activated and pumps the excess water up into the discharge pipe. This will direct the water into the sewer, septic or drain field away from the house’s foundation.

Ejector Pumps

Like sump sumps, ejector pumps push excess water out of the basement. However, instead of ground water, ejector pumps will collect and pump gray water from basement drains and water appliances or fixtures. These are typically found in homes with partially or fully finished basements which have a washer, utility sink or floor drain.

Since the water in sump pumps is usually clear ground water, it is rarely the source of the distinct smell of sewer or wastewater. While a flooding basement is often the first sign of a sump pump gone bad, a sewer odor in your basement may be an ejector pump problem. Either way, your local sewer or septic professional is the first call you should make to get the issue resolved.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

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Take A Peek Into Your Sewer Pipes

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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New technology makes it easier than ever to see what’s going on in your underground sewer pipes. Digital camera inspections are the best way to have your sewer pipes inspected, giving you a close up view of exactly what is happening in your sewer lines. This newer technology is used by many professional sewer and plumbing companies to offer you a true view of what is going on beneath the surface of your property.

Benefits Of A Sewer Camera Inspection

There are several reasons to schedule a camera inspection of your sewer pipes, even when everything seems to be functioning correctly in your plumbing and sewer system. Camera inspections can be part of your regular maintenance, to identify issues before they become significant sewer problems. Consider these uses of video obtained through a camera inspection:

  • Tree roots. A video inspection can show any tree roots which have begun to grow into your sewer pipes before they cause a clog.
  • Deterioration. Older sewer pipes can become cracked or corroded over time. Annual inspections can give you a look underground to see how your pipes are holding up.
  • Diagnose problems. The most common use for camera inspections in your sewer lines is to find clogs or leaks in your sewer system. It can also show sludge build up which may be causing slow drainage, requiring cleaning of your sewer pipes.

Most sewer and plumbing companies who use camera inspections will share these with you, so you can see exactly what is happening in your pipes. Consider scheduling a video inspection once a year, especially for older sewer pipe systems that may need to be replaced in the next few years. It can reduce the possibility of emergency sewer repairs and backups down the road.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

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What To Do In A Sewer Backup Emergency

May 8th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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No one wants to have a sewer backup into their home; it’s disgusting, dangerous and an expensive problem to fix. It’s also one of the reasons why maintaining your sewer lines or septic system is so important.  However, these situations can happen despite your efforts to prevent them, and when they do, you will need to know what to do to get the problem resolved and to keep your family safe from potential harm.

  • Call an emergency sewer professional! The first step is to get the problem fixed and stop any more sewer water from backing up into your home. Many sewer companies offer 24-hour emergency sewer line repairs to handle these types of emergencies.
  • Keep your family and pets away from contaminated areas. Any sewer water that backs up onto floors is potentially dangerous. If possible, remove your family from the home until the surfaces can be properly cleaned and disinfected. At minimum, keep everyone away from the contaminated areas.
  • Be aware of electrical shock. Sewer backups can also present electrical dangers. Do use any electrical equipment when standing on wet floors. Turn off electrical breakers if safe to do so.
  • Clean up. Depending on how severe the back up was, you may need to hire a professional water removal company to help with the clean up. Not only is there hazardous material, the moisture can quickly cause mold and other water damage to your home. In some cases, your homeowners insurance may cover these services; check with your policyholder to determine the best course of action.

A sewer backup is never a fun experience. Anyone who has gone through this nightmare is sure to contemplate how they can prevent it from ever happening again. Most sewer backups can be prevented through regular maintenance and watching for warning signs. Talk to your local sewer professional to discuss what you can do today to prevent these emergencies in the future.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

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