Catch Basin Cleaning And Maintenance

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Commercial Pumping
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Do you have a catch basin at your home or business? If you do not know the answer to that question, it may be time you found out. A catch basin is used to maintain the flow of surface or storm water on your property, draining off excess standing water while catching debris before it goes into the sewer system. These basins protect buildings, driveways and parking lots from damage due to excess surface water, and need to be regularly cleaned and maintained.

Performing Catch Basin Maintenance

Catch basins must regularly be emptied  to keep them performing. This is not generally something that a property owner will do themselves. Many sewer and septic service companies offer catch basin cleaning and maintenance services. To clean the catch basins, the basins either need to manually emptied or  professional vacuum pumps can be used to pull out debris. Some basic recommendations on catch basin cleaning and maintenance include:

  • Empty catch basins when they are half full. Basins that become overloaded can release debris into sewer pipes, causing clogs and damage.
  • Schedule yearly maintenance. Most catch basins should be emptied once a year, sometimes more often.
  • Spring and late fall are good times to empty your basin. After the last leaves fall is a good time to have your catch basin cleaned. Another option is in the spring, to remove debris from the winter storms which may have accumulated.

When catch basins are emptied, they can also be inspected for performance. A catch basin which is not working properly can cause extensive damage to physical property, sewer lines and the surrounding soil, so it is important to keep these devices empty and in good repair.

 Posted on behalf of Metro Septic and Sewer

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What Is A Side Sewer Contractor?

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
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If you are looking for a sewer repair or replacement company, you may notice that some advertise themselves as side sewer contractors. This distinction can be important, depending on what work you are having done, and where you live. In most municipalities with a city water and sewer system, the side sewer is piping between a private home or business that connects it to the municipal sewer system. This pipe is also called a sewer lateral.  Depending on where you live, you may need a side sewer contractor when replacing old sewer pipes and connecting new pipes to the city sewer system.

Side Sewer Legalities

The issue with side sewers is they are private pipes which connect to a public system. While in most regions, property owners have the right to fix their own pipes on their property or hire someone to do so, they are not necessarily allowed to work in the right-of-way area where the private and public pipes meet. In most circumstances, the city in question requires a licensed side sewer contractor to perform that type of work.

When To Hire A Side Sewer Contractor

If your sewer system is connected to a municipal sewer system by a side sewer, it is important to hire a side sewer contractor for any sewer replacement you have performed. In some cities, contractors may even need to be registered as side sewer contractors before they are allowed to get the proper permits to perform certain services within city limits. If you are not sure whether you need a side sewer contractor  for your sewer service, call your local municipality’s water and sewer department to confirm what is required in your area.

Posted on behalf of Metro Septic and Sewer

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Types Of Sewer Pipe Replacements

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Although sewer pipes can last for forty to fifty years or more, eventually there comes a time when they will need to be replaced. The difficulty with replacing these pipelines is that they are buried underground, often below a homeowner’s lawn. Traditionally, these pipes need to be dug up by creating an open trench and physically replaced, which can destroy expensive landscaping and also be labor intensive. However, which new technology, there are alternatives for sewer pipe replacement.

Trenchless Versus Open Trench Sewer Replacement

When it comes to sewer pipe replacement, there are now two options: trenchless or open trench. For homeowners who are looking for a fast, economical way to replace old sewer pipes, trenchless methods can be a viable option. Here are the differences:

–        Trenchless. Using newer technology, sewer contractors are able to leave the existing pipes underground, rather than digging a trench to remove old sewer pipes. Instead, two holes are dug, one at each end of the sewer line. A bursting tool is pulled through the old pipe, shattering it into pieces as it pulls a new pipe into place behind it.

–        Open Trench. The traditional method digs an open trench, removing the old pipe, then replacing it with new pipe, usually PVC, ABS or cast iron. While this can make a mess of the lawn and take more time than trenchless replacement, sometimes it is the only option. If there is not sufficient space between sewer lines and other utilities, it may not be possible to burst the old pipe into the surrounding earth without causing larger problems.

Anyone who is considering replacing their sewer pipes should research all their options. Trenchless sewer line replacement can be less expensive, plus it is quicker and causes less damage to the property. To learn more, hire an experienced sewer line replacement contractor to have your sewer system inspected and find out what options are available to you.

Posted on behalf of Metro Septic and Sewer

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Questions To Ask Before Buying A Septic Maintenance Package

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
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The easiest and most efficient way to keep your septic system maintained is to hire a professional septic service. Most septic companies offer maintenance packages which include several services to keep your system working properly, saving you time and money on repairs. Of course, all septic service packages are not created equally. Before hiring a septic company to perform scheduled maintenance, here are some questions you should ask.

  • How many site visits per year will they perform? Simple systems may only need service once or twice a year, while more advanced systems can require service up to four times a year. Research what your system’s manufacturer recommends.
  • What is included in service visits? Find out exactly what will be included and performed during regular service visits. What will they inspect, clean and replace when they visit? Some of the common bits of equipment inspected are the tank, effluent filter, treatment system, mechanical parts and drain field. Parts that may need cleaning include the filter and the treatment media.
  • Are water treatment chemicals included? If they are inspecting your water treatment system, are they also providing the chemicals needed to keep it maintained?
  • What type of septic systems do they currently maintain? If you have an advanced system, you want to ensure that the company you use is experienced in maintaining that system. While most septic companies are familiar with conventional systems, not all have experience with other system types.
  • What are their credentials? Like any contractor you hire, you should research their business standing. Do they have the proper licensing and insurance required by your state and county? Are they accredited through the Better Business Bureau or other associations?

Having a septic company who you can trust to perform your maintenance can save you the worry and time of doing it yourself. Just do a little research before you hire your contractor to make sure they are the right company for the job.

Posted on behalf of Septic Service Pro

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Preventive Tips For Sewer Maintenance

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Sewer repairs and replacement can be expensive, which is a good reason to take care of the system you own in order to prevent them. There are several ways you can maintain and protect your sewer system by consciously avoiding certain factors which can contribute to future problems. Some of the most common causes of clogs, cracked sewer pipes and other sewer problems are due to actions performed by homeowners. Here are a few preventive tips to keep your sewer maintained and free of problems.

Garbage Disposals And Drains

One of the biggest issues in both sewers and septic systems is what is put down the drains or into garbage disposals. Grease and fats can cause clogs in the sewer pipes, leading to expensive service calls. Avoid putting heavy items such as feminine hygiene products down toilets to prevent clogs. For garbage disposals, try to avoid putting items that are fibrous down the drain. This can include vegetable peels and certain vegetables that are tough to break down, such as artichokes and celery.

Planting

When planting bushes or trees in your yard, be aware of where your sewer lines run before putting these plants in the ground. Even though a seedling might start small, many trees and large bushes have extensive root systems which can grow deep into the earth. These roots are attracted to the moisture contained within sewer pipes, which can lead to roots invading your pipelines. This can create sewer backups and even crack your sewer pipes, requiring replacement.

Regular Cleaning

Another way to maintain your sewer is to have regular cleanings performed on your pipes to prevent future clogs and backups. Your local sewer service company may offer pipes cleaning services, such as hydrojetting, which use high pressure water to clean out old debris, slug and even small tree roots from your sewer pipes.

 Posted on behalf of Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.

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Is Your Sewer Pipe Blocked Or Broken?

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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There are always some tell-tale signs when your sewer pipes are malfunctioning. First of all, there is usually an unmistakable odor. If your waste material is not completing the trip from your home to the city sewer line, it will cause an odor to back up into your home. The lowest level of drains will be the most distinct areas of odor; usually the basement drains, if you have one. Secondly, you may begin to have sewer back up into your plumbing fixtures, causing more odor and problems. The question is now, is it a broken pipe or just a clogged or blocked sewer line?

Determining Breaks Versus Blockages

Unfortunately, there is no simple way to find out whether you are dealing with a broken or clogged sewer pipe. Most sewer line issues happen below ground, making it hard to diagnose them on your own. However, if you have a broken pipe which is leaking sewer water into the ground, you may notice wet areas in your lawn, collapsing soil or even an odor outside. Be aware, however, that just because there are not any visible signs or odors does not mean it is only a clog.

At the first sign of a sewer line malfunction, the best course of action is to call your local sewer repair company. They will be able to diagnosis the problem, usually by either attempting to remove any clogs or by first performing a camera inspection using a video camera to inspect your sewer lines. Whatever the problem is, you will need it resolved immediately before further damage occurs, so it is best to get a professional involved as soon as possible.

 Posted on behalf of Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.

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Can Your Septic Handle Your Big Summer Party?

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Septic Tank Pumping
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It is common during the summer months for many homeowners to have large gatherings at their homes. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, there are many beautiful weekends and holidays which present perfect opportunities to bring friends and family together. However, if you own a home with a septic system, you need to plan for more than how many hot dogs to buy for your barbecue. You should also be preparing for the extra stress these parties can have on your septic system.

Preparing For Extra Guests

Your septic system is designed to handle the daily load for your household, but not necessarily a dozen or more extra guests at one time. To offset this extra load, you should plan for the big day ahead of time. Here are a few ways to reduce stress on your septic system during a large party:

  • Water usage. Showers, laundry and other large water usages should be handled prior to the day of the party. Do food prepping and other tasks that require water in the days before the event.
  • Use disposable plates and cups. Cut down on the amount of dishes you will need to wash by only using disposal items which can be thrown away.
  • Post bathroom rules. Politely let guests know what cannot be flushed down the toilet by posting a reminder in your bathroom. If it is a very large party, you may want to consider renting a portable bathroom that can be used outside.
  • Pump your tank. If you have not had your septic tank pumped in awhile, having it pumped prior to a large party can ensure that there is room in the tank to handle the extra waste. Plan ahead to arrange septic tank pumping before the date arrives.

With a little planning, you can have a successful summer party without ending up with a septic emergency when you have a house full of guests.

Posted on behalf of Seagraves Plumbing Septic and Sewer

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Are You A New Homeowner With A Septic System?

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Septic Tank Inspections
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If you have just bought a home with a septic system, you will need to educate yourself on how these complex systems work in order to maintain it properly. While city sewer systems are maintained by the local municipality, with a septic system this responsibility falls on shoulders of the homeowner. Septic systems can be costly to repair or replace; it’s in your financial interest to learn everything you need to know about your septic system before you start using it.

Septic System Basics

As a septic system owner, there are certain things you need to know so you can properly maintain your system. If the previous owner did not provide you with this information, here are a few things you will need to investigate.

  • What type of septic systems do you have? Most conventional systems have a septic tank and a drainfield, with different variations on these types. There are also other types of systems, such as aerobic treatment systems and low pressure pipe systems.
  • How old is the system? Septic systems can last for decades if they are properly maintained. However, you should know when it was installed and when the last pumping was completed.
  • Where is your drain or leach field? The waste water must be expelled into a drain or leach field, which must be protected. You need to know where this is so you can avoid disturbing or potentially damaging the system.
  • When was the last time the system was serviced? If you were not given service records on the septic system, you will want to hire a local septic service company to inspect septic system. A septic tank inspection is often done as part of the home selling process, if it was not, you should have it done now.

Once you are aware of what system you own, you can talk to your local septic company about what maintenance is needed. Since new septic systems can cost thousands of dollars, it is worth taking the time to learn what you need to know to maintain the one you have.

Posted on behalf of  Septic Service Pro

 

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4 Tips For Keeping Your Septic Maintained

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Septic Tank Pumping
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Owning a home with a septic system requires certain maintenance to be performed to keep it running smoothly. If you are new to owning a home with a septic system, you may not be aware of the full scope of problems which can be directly attributed to improper septic maintenance. There are certain things you need to do, and some things that you should avoid, to ensure your septic system continues functioning optimally. Here are four basic septic maintenance tips to get you started.

  1. Avoid harsh chemicals. Septic systems require a delicate chemical balance, which is easily disturbed when certain substances are put down the drain. Avoid putting chemicals such as bleach or heavy household cleaners down the drain. Use biodegradable cleaning products whenever possible.
  2. Food waste. Even if you have a garbage disposal, you should be extremely careful of the food waste you put down the drain. Try to limit grease or fats going down the drains by straining extra grease out of pans into the garbage before washing. Also, scrape excess food off plates into the garbage before washing dishes.
  3. Water usage. Your septic system must process all water used in your home. Preserve the life of your septic by using water efficient fixtures and appliances. Teach your family to practice water conserving techniques, such as not leaving the water running and spreading out laundry schedules.
  4. Septic maintenance. Your septic tank should have regular maintenance performed, such as regular septic tank pumping and maintaining the treatment system. Most homes with septic systems will need some annual maintenance, plus the tank will need to be pumped every few years.

Hiring a septic company to perform regular maintenance is one way to avoid septic malfunctions and backups. They can also give you other hints and tips on how to keep your septic system well-maintained and running smoothly.

Posted on behalf of Metro Septic and Plumbing

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When Is Relining Your Sewer Lines An Option?

June 16th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Not all sewer line damage requires a full replacement. In some cases, homeowners can choose the more economical option of relining their sewer pipes versus replacing them. Relining sewer pipes involves inserting a flexible lining into the broken or cracked sewer lines, usually soaked in resin which adheres to the interior of the pipe through pressure and heat. This creates a new pipeline inside in the old pipes, lasting up to 50 years in some applications. It is a fast process, making it much less labor intensive and costing much less than replacement. However, first it must be determined that relining is an option well suited to your needs.

What Broken Sewer Pipes Can Be Relined

Relining is an option for many sewer lines, including those with 90 degree angles and long lengths. Sewer repair companies that offer this service will first need to perform an inspection of the malfunctioning pipes to determine whether relining is an appropriate sewer line repair. Typically, relining is used in pipes that have the following issues:

  • Cracks in the pipe surface
  • Joint displacement
  • Tree root damage

In cases when relining can be used, the pipes are usually first cleaned and obstructions removed, then the lining can be put in place. In some circumstances, it may be not be recommended that relining be used. Pipes which are sagging, have improper grade alignment or have sections missing will most likely need to be replaced.

The first step to finding out whether your sewer pipes can be relined is to call your local sewer repair company and schedule an inspection of your pipes. They can discuss what options are available to you, including relining, based on the current issues within your sewer line system.

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

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