Strange Items That Can Hurt Your Septic System

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Strange Items That Can Hurt Your Septic System

You may already know the normal household items to keep out of your drains when you own a septic system. You know that grease, fat, paint and bulky items all need to be thrown away and not allowed to enter your septic tank. However, there are some less common items you may not have considered. Here are a few of those strange items that also need to stay out of your septic.

  • Bath and body oils. A luxurious, scented bath is relaxing, but those bath products may also be hurting your septic system. Bath and body oils are especially taxing on the septic system and should only be used sparingly, if at all.
  • Liquid anti-bacterial hand soap. Anti-bacterial soap does kill bacteria. In fact, it continues to kill bacteria when it enters your septic system, including the good bacteria your system needs. Liquid hand soap is often more aggressive than bar soap, adding too much of these anti-bacterial agents to your septic system.
  • Chemotherapy drugs. The drugs used in chemotherapy can be life-saving. They can also be extremely toxic to your septic system, even after they have passed through the body. To avoid septic backups during a time that’s already difficult, waste from chemotherapy patients should not be flushed. The other option is to have your septic tank pumped more frequently.

Talk to your septic professional about any concerns you have with drugs or other agents that may be entering your septic system. They may have a solution to help you protect your septic system from harm.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

, ,
Read More

Signs of a Frozen Sewer Pipe

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
Comments Off on Signs of a Frozen Sewer Pipe

It’s common to hear about frozen water pipes in basements, crawl spaces and other exposed areas. However, underground pipes are usually less likely to freeze due to the insulation provided by the surrounding soil, even in very cold regions. Even though sewer pipes are not commonly the first pipes to freeze, it does still happen. When they do, it’s important to recognize the problem as soon as possible to minimize the damage.

What Happens When a Sewer Pipe Freezes

A sewer pipe will usually not freeze solid in only a few hours. It may start freezing moisture around the interior of the pipes first, creating a ice layer which reduces the size of the inside of the pipe. If the deep freeze continues, the waste water coming through the pipe can become slush, then eventually freeze solid. Once this happens, there is a danger of the pipe bursting as the ice expands.

Although it is difficult to know what is happening in your sewer pipes under the ground, there may be signs they are in danger of freezing. First, it will need to be below freezing for several days in a row. Secondly, you may notice that your drains are not emptying as quickly as the pipes begin to freeze shut. Once they are completely frozen, you will have a sewer backup in all your affected drains.

If you believe your sewer pipes are freezing, call a sewer professional immediately. The sooner they can address the problem, the better the chance they can help prevent the pipes from bursting. Your sewer professional can use digital cameras and other techniques to determine what the issue is, and how best to fix it.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

, ,
Read More

Septic Tank Access Cover Hazards

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Septic Tank Access Cover Hazards

Most septic tanks have a tank cover which allows access to the system. While this porthole is important for repairs and maintenance of your septic system, this access area can hazardous if not properly designed. Many children and even adults have been seriously, even fatally, injured by falling into a septic tank access hole. It is important to understand septic tank cover safety to ensure that your septic tank does not become a hazard.

Septic Tank Access Cover Safety

Your septic tank’s access cover can be a double-edged sword. It needs to be accessible by you and your septic maintenance professional; however, it also needs to not be accessible to children or pets. It only takes a minute for a child to get a poorly designed cover off and be at risk of falling down into the tank. To prevent this hazard, follow these safety precautions:

  • Proper septic tank cover. Covers should not easy to remove by a child. They should be heavy enough that only an adult can move, or secured in another way. Make sure that if the cover is in an area where it could be driven over, it’s a heavy-duty cover which will not break.
  • Preventive nets. There are nets that are designed to be installed under septic tank lids to prevent falls into the tank. These are an extra preventive step which may be a good idea for families with small children.

In addition to securing your access tank cover, let your children know that this is a dangerous area which needs to be avoided. Talk to your septic professional to ensure that your tank access cover meets all safety regulations.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

, ,
Read More

Plan a Post-Holiday Cleaning for Your Sewer Pipes

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
Comments Off on Plan a Post-Holiday Cleaning for Your Sewer Pipes

The holidays are full of wonderful goodies, rich meals and over-indulgence, all of which we love to enjoy. However, all this food means more dishes, laundry and yes, more trips to the bathroom. All that goes in must go out, and down into your sewer or septic lines. Add to that extra guests, and your sewer lines may need to lose weight along with everybody else come the New Year.

Benefits of Regular Sewer Line Cleaning

Over the year, your sewer lines can become full of sludge which builds up on the interior walls. Also, some sewer lines are also prone to tree root invasion which can create blockages. In the cooler weather, all the fat, grease and extra waste can congeal on the interior walls, creating the beginning of a large clog in your pipes.

Clearing out this sludge is the best way to prevent potentially expensive and disruptive sewer backups. Many sewer service companies offer an easy solution, using a process called hydrojetting to clean out debris from your sewer lines. This high-powered water cleansing can remove the sludge buildup and even clear out tree roots, leaving your pipes ready to face another year.

While you are considering your New Year’s resolutions for 2015, why not schedule a cleaning for your sewer pipes to start the year off fresh? Your local sewer service company can inspect your pipes and clear out any blocking issues to ensure your sewer lines will be ready to perform for the rest of the year. It’s a great way to invest in a hassle-free year, with no sewer blockages in your future.

Posted on behalf of:
A-Flo Free Septic
Lawrenceville, GA
(770) 927-7926

, ,
Read More

How Does a Septic Mound System Work

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Septic System
Comments Off on How Does a Septic Mound System Work

There are some areas and even entire states where new septic systems must use a mound system for their effluent purification. Unlike traditional trench systems that use the soil in the ground to purify waste water that comes from the septic tank, mound systems are built above the ground. These systems tend to be slightly more expensive to build and maintain, yet are required by law in many areas.

Function of a Mound System

Both mound and trench systems do the same job; they remove pollutants from the waste water or effluent that comes from the septic tank before the water is allowed to be absorbed back into the earth. The biggest difference is that a mound system must be built, usually using sand and gravel to create a filter for the effluent.

In a mound system, the effluent is pumped from the septic tank to the top area of the mound a few times a day through small pipes. The water saturates the sand layer which is above the gravel layer. Oxygen from the air feeds aerobic bacteria which help remove pollutants from the effluent, along with the filtering effects as the water passes through the sand and gravel layers. The purified water then enters the ground at the bottom of the mound, clean and safe to enter back into the groundwater.

Mound systems are usually required due to concerns for the surrounding environment or soil concentrations. If you are considering building a home that will need a septic system or replacing an old system, you will need to know whether you will need to build a mound system or whether a trench or drain field system can be used. Your local septic professional will be able to discuss what the requirements are and give you options for your new septic system.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

, ,
Read More

Homeowner’s Guide to Sewer Maintenance

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
Comments Off on Homeowner’s Guide to Sewer Maintenance

Owning a home involves a plethora of items to maintain, from the roof to the underground sewer lines. Truth be told, many homeowners do nothing to maintain their sewer lines. They may not even think about their sewer system at all until there’s a problem. Unfortunately, ignoring your system until there’s a problem often means these issues will be more complicated ones, often at a very high cost and inconvenience. A better plan is to provide preventative maintenance on your sewer system to ensure that it can continue functioning for years to come.

Sewer Maintenance Tips

The good news is there’s not much you need to do to maintain your sewer. Often, it’s more about what not to do than actual maintenance. A sewer system that was installed correctly can work without problems for decades, with a little help from its owners. Here are a few tips for maintaining your sewer lines:

  • Flushing. The biggest sewer line problems often come from the bathroom, where larger items enter the sewer lines. To prevent clogs, don’t flush anything but water, waste and toilet paper, avoiding even items which claim to be flushable.
  • Drains. Keep fat, grease, chemicals, paint, coffee grounds and fibrous vegetables out of your drains. Get in the habit of throwing these items away, not allowing them to go down into your sewer pipes even if you have a garbage disposal installed.
  • Cleanings and inspections. Once a year, hire a local sewer professional to inspect and clean your sewer pipes. Many emergency sewer problems can easily be prevented by keeping your sewer lines clear.

Your local sewer line service company can offer additional advice about how to keep your sewer system maintained. Ask them for maintenance advice at your next inspection and sewer line cleaning.

Posted on behalf of:
Hunter’s Septic Service
Nesbit, MS
(662) 429-1686

, ,
Read More

Homeowner Versus City Responsibilities for Sewer Problems

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
Comments Off on Homeowner Versus City Responsibilities for Sewer Problems

Many homeowners who are connected to a city or municipal sewer system may not know what sewer issues are their responsibility, and which belong to the municipality. It’s a common misunderstanding that, since they pay for their sewer service, any problems which may occur will be taken care of through the utility company. However, in most areas there are distinct rules regarding what homeowners are responsible for when it comes to repairing and maintaining their sewer lines.

City Sewer Limitations

In most cities and areas which offer sewer service, there is an expectation that homeowners will share in the responsibility of maintaining the sewer system. Generally, this means that the sewer line from where it connects to the municipal line back into the home is to be cared for by the homeowner. This means any pipes which need to be repaired or replaced on the property will be paid for by the homeowner.

Most sewer backups will be caused by clogs in the pipes close to the house. However, it is possible for there to be a large backup in the main municipal sewer line. If this is the case, the utility company is usually responsible for repairing any issues. However, in most situations, the homeowner will need to call in a sewer service company to inspect the problem before they will know whether the clog is their sewer line or coming from the utility line.

Since the lateral sewer line between the home and city sewer line is the responsibility of the homeowner, it should be maintained to prevent expensive problems. Homeowners should consult their local sewer professionals about how to care for their sewer line to avoid sewer backups and other problems.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

, ,
Read More

Going Green is Great for Your Septic System

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Going Green is Great for Your Septic System

It’s not just the planet that can benefit when you make green choices. If you own a home with a septic system, going green is a great way to extend the life of your septic and decrease the chance of septic failure. There are several ways that green habits and products can help your septic system, including these green septic tips:

  • Green cleaning products. Harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia and other chemicals can be harmful to the delicate bacterial balance in your septic tank. Choosing green cleaners which do not contain such chemicals can be healthier for both your septic system and the environment. Another option is making your own cleaners from natural substances, like vinegar and baking soda.
  • Save on water, save your septic. Conserving water is part of the green movement, but it’s also a great way to reduce wear and tear on your septic system. Be conscious of every bit of water you use, saving an important resource while putting less stress on your septic system.
  • Use energy and water efficient appliances. Choose appliances and fixtures that are energy and water efficient. This can reduce your energy bills while decreasing the water that goes through your septic system every month.

Living green has many benefits to your bank account, the earth and even your septic system. Your septic service company may have more tips on how to preserve your septic system and make it last for many years to come. Call to schedule an annual inspection and maintenance service for your septic, and learn more about how to use green methods to take care of your septic system.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

, ,
Read More

Causes of Frozen Septic Pipes

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Causes of Frozen Septic Pipes

Most sewer and septic pipes are protected from freezing in cold winter weather by the soil and vegetation that insulates them in the ground. Even in cold climate regions, septic pipes don’t normally freeze. However, there are some circumstances which can make it possible for these underground pipes to freeze and cause problems for the homeowner. Here are a few common causes of freezing septic pipes:

  • No ground cover. Newly installed septic pipes which have no vegetation above them have less insulation, leaving pipes susceptible to freezing.
  • Cold weather with no snow.  A deep frost with no snow for insulation can freeze the ground and septic pipes, in some cases.
  • Irregular use. Septic systems that are not used regularly, such as a vacation cabin, are more likely to have pipes freeze. This can also occur in homes which are used less frequently than the system is designed to handle.
  • Dripping plumbing or furnace. If plumbing is dripping small amounts of water, or there is condensation from a furnace or dehumidifier, this trickle of slow water can freeze inside the pipes.
  • Cold air. If an inspection cap is left open or is cracked, it can allow cold air into the system that can freeze septic pipes.
  • Poor drainage. Septic pipes that are not inclined or have settled may not drain correctly, causing water to pool and freeze.

A frozen sewer or septic pipe will usually cause a backup into the home’s plumbing, requiring the help of a septic professional. If the problem is not fixed, the septic pipes will continue to freeze and can cause more damage to the system in the future.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

, ,
Read More

Five Things Kids Should Know About Your Septic System

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Septic System
Comments Off on Five Things Kids Should Know About Your Septic System

It may not occur you to educate your kids about your septic system, at least until you need to call your septic professional due to a problem caused by your children. It’s never too early to start teaching your kids about how to safeguard your septic with good habits. Here are five things to teach your kids about the care of your septic system.

  1. What not to flush. Just because it can go down the toilet does not mean it should. Many septic emergencies are caused by items which are flushed down the toilet only to clog up the system. Let your kids know that only the only “item” beyond their normal functions that should ever be flushed is toilet paper.
  2. What can be poured down the drain. Let your kids know that the sink drain is not for paint, chemicals, grease or other liquids that can hurt your septic system. Even too much of a carbonated soda product can be harmful.
  3. Limiting water use. Teach your kids good water efficiency habits from an early age. Never leave water running down the drain; this includes allowing a shower to run for several minutes before they get in, or rinsing dishes.
  4. No food in the sink. Kids should be shown how to scrape their plates thoroughly before they are put in the sink or dishwasher. Even small amounts of food left on the plate can add up and cause clogged drains.
  5. No playing on the drain field. Show your kids where your drain field is located, and let them know that it’s a restricted area. The delicate system right below the surface should not be disturbed.

If you let your kids and family know the rules regarding caring for your septic, they can help you prevent expensive septic problems. However, if you do have a septic emergency, your local septic professional is only a call away.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

, ,
Read More

Find Local Company | Find Local Sewer Septic Services