Troubleshooting Drain Field Problems

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Drain Field
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Keeping a functioning drain field is essential to ensuring your septic system is working correctly. If the drain field is no longer able to filter effluent from the septic tank, the entire system can be compromised. There are two main signs that there may be a problem with your drain field: poor draining of the effluent and sewer backups. If you have these issues, you need to begin to troubleshoot what is causing the problem.

Common Drain Field Issues

There are a few different reasons that a drain field is not draining or is backing up. Before you call a septic professional, try checking a few septic functions to narrow down the problems. Some areas to check include:

  • Damage to drain spouts. If a vehicle or other heavy equipment has drove over the drain field, your pipes may have been crushed. Check for damage to the pipes.
  • Full tank. Has your tank been pumped recently? A full tank can overflow into the drain field.
  • Tree roots. Have trees or shrubs grown larger near the field? Roots can grow into your pipes, causing a clog.
  • Clogged drain pipes. If non-biodegradable materials have been allowed down the drain, these items can clog the small holes in your drain field pipes.

Some ongoing issues that can cause drain field problems include overuse of garbage disposal, too much grease allowed down the drains and under-sized septic tanks. Although you can troubleshoot these issues on your own, you will want to call in a septic professional to fix the problem. They can repair the immediate problem and give you advice on how to overcome ongoing drain field problems.

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

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Spring Clean Your Sewer Lines with Hydrojetting

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Just because you can’t see your sewer pipes doesn’t mean they do not need to be cleaned. Over time, sewer lines can accumulate debris, slowly creating a smaller space for waste to travel through. Eventually, your sewer lines can become clogged and cause a messy and expensive sewer backup into your home. The most efficient way to maintain and clean your sewer pipes is with an annual hydrojetting service as part of your spring cleaning.

How Hydrojetting Works

Hydrojetting is a service that many sewer and septic service companies offer to remove clogs and waste from the interior of your sewer pipes. The process uses high-pressured water to clean the pipes by entering the pipe from an access hole. The water removes waste that has adhered to the inside of pipes and can even clear out tree roots that have grown into the pipes. It is a fast and easy service that can help prevent clogs and further damage to your sewer lines from roots and corrosion.

Many sewer companies that offer hydrojetting also have digital video camera options to view the interior of your sewer pipes. This can give you a before and after view of your pipes, showing how effective the hydrojetting service was at cleaning your pipes. It is also a great way to inspect the condition of your pipes to alert you of any cracks or other problems.

When you begin your spring cleaning this year, don’t forget those sewer pipes that are under your yard. A little cleaning once a year can prevent a sewer emergency and extend the life of your sewer pipes, saving you money in the long run.

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

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Signs of Septic Problems

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
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If you own a septic system, you may go years without needing to do any repairs as long as you have regular maintenance performed. However, it is usually only a matter of time before you will have some type of repair that is needed. Knowing the signs of septic problems can help you identify the issue before it becomes a large septic problem. Here are a few signs that you may need septic repair:

  • Slow drains. If you begin noticing that you have slow drains throughout your home, you may be having a septic problem. It could be a clog in your sewer pipes or your tank may be getting full.
  • Foul odor. Septic systems that are working properly should not be release a foul odor. If you begin noticing a foul odor coming from your drains, yard or drain field, call a septic professional to inspect your system.
  • Wet areas. Wet ground near sewer lines, your septic tank or your drain field can be sign of problems. It may be a leak or a malfunctioning drain field, all which require professional repair.
  • Greener grass. A sign that your leech or drain field is not working correctly is if the grass covering the area becomes very green or is growing faster than other areas. This can caused by effluent that is not draining, feeding the grass.

If you have any of these signs, it is time to call your local septic professional. Many times catching these problems early can reduce the repair costs and prevent a septic system failure. Have your entire system inspected to determine the problem so it can be repaired as quickly as possible.

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

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Saving Money on Sewer Pipe Repair

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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If you have a sewer pipe issues, you may be concerned that the cost to repair or replace the pipe may be more than you can afford. While sewer pipe repairs can be costly, there are ways to reduce the cost of the repair. Not all pipes need to be dug up and replaced physically; there are other repair options that may save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars off your sewer pipe repairs.

Affordable Sewer Pipe Repair Options

The largest cost in traditional sewer pipe repair and replacement is not the materials; it is the amount of time and labor that is used to dig up old pipes. While this method is still used, there are other options that can save you money. Here are a few options to discuss with your sewer repair company that may reduce your costs:

  • Video inspection. The first way to determine what options are available is insisting on a video inspection of your pipes. This can pinpoint exactly where the problem is and what needs to be repaired. It may be an isolated area that can be fixed versus a full line replacement.
  • Relining options. Often a portion of a pipe or the entire pipe can be relined instead of replaced. There is no need to dig up the pipe and the lining is inserted where it is needed.
  • Trenchless replacement. If your entire pipe must be replaced, consider trenchless replacement with pipe bursting. This can reduce the labor costs while still fixing the issue with less disruption to your landscaping and usually at a reduced price.

There are many options available for sewer repair besides costly digging up the pipes. Talk to your local sewer repair company to find out what options are available.

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

 

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Save Money Off Sewer Pipe Replacement with Relining

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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One of the larger expenditures in home ownership is needing to replace your sewer pipes. Although sewer pipes can last for decades, eventually they can crack or become corroded from years of use. Replacing all your pipes can be costly; however, in some cases you may be able to forego the expensive replacement and have a relining service performed instead.

Sewer Pipe Relining

Sewer pipe relining is an affordable alternative to replacing entire sewer lines. This process uses a lining that is fed into one end of a sewer line and pushed through the sewer pipe. Usually using hot air, the lining is inflated to push it against the interior of the pipe. The liner adheres to the inside of the pipe, creating a seemless, new interior to the pipe.

For sewer pipes that are cracked or even have become offset at the joints, relining can create a new path for sewer waste. The benefits of relining go beyond just a monetary savings; the new lining is durable and resistant to cracking and tree root evasion. It is a reliable option for many homeowners who do not want to pay for complete sewer line replacement.

There are some circumstances where relining is not an option, usually when there is an issue with the grade or slant of the sewer lines. If you are considering having your sewer pipes replaced, talk to your local sewer service company about the possibility of pipe relining. It can offer a substantial savings while still giving your home viable sewer lines for the removal of waste from your home that can last for many years.

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

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New Septic System Installation Basics

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
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Adding a new septic system to your property is a large endeavor in preparation, installation and cost. Whether you are building a new home with a septic or converting an existing home to using a septic, the first step will be preparing for the installation process.

Preparing for a Septic Installation

Although laws and regulations vary depending on where you live, every septic will need certain permits and must meet the local guidelines. If you are working with a local septic contractor, they may be able to assist in getting the correct permits and will know the specifications for your area. However, it is important to know everything you will need to do before installation. Some of the preparation should include:

  • Determine the size of tank needed based on the size of home and household
  • Consider the placement of pipes, tank and drain field for gravity system
  • Schedule the soil to be perc’d for the drain field by a certified specialist
  • Have plans drawn up for pipe, tank and drain field placement
  • Contact local utility companies regarding underground pipes and lines that will need to be avoided
  • Get all the correct permits to begin installation

Being prepared for your new septic system installation can ensure that the project goes as smoothly as possible. Once you have the plans in place and all the permits, you and your septic contractor will be able to begin your installation project. Make sure to only work with a licensed contractor that gives you a written estimate on exactly what the entire project will cost. This can eliminate any unexpected cost changes and ensure that the project stays within your budget.

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

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Items to Keep Out of Your Septic Tank

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Septic Tanks
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There are two types of items that need to be kept out of your septic tank: cloggers and bacteria killers. Items that clog can backup your septic systems, clog your sewer pipes and cause major problems throughout your entire system. The other group, bacteria killers, can ruin the chemical balance in the tank, which slows the breakdown process. It is important to educate your entire household on what these items are and the potential harm they can do to your septic.

Cloggers

Anything that does not breakdown naturally from bacteria should not be allowed to be put down the drain or flushed. These can be larger items or even granules, all which can be destructive to your septic system, causing clogs. These items include:

  • Cotton products: swabs, cotton balls, feminine hygiene products and bandages.
  • Coffee grounds
  • Cat litter, even those that claim to be flushable
  • High-fiber vegetable or fruit peels

Bacteria Killers

Your septic tank must maintain a delicate balance to properly breakdown the waste before it is able to be distributed into your drain field. This bacteria balance can be harmed by certain items that are poured down your drains. Some items include:

  • Bleach
  • Chemical cleaners
  • Antifreeze
  • Oil
  • Paint

All these items should be disposed of into the garbage and always kept out of toilets, sinks, washers and any other drains. Educate everyone in your home on how to protect and care for your septic system by keeping cloggers and bacteria killers out of the system. Don’t forget to inform overnight guests and visitors to be careful of what they put down the drains while in your home to prevent accidental problems and septic emergencies.

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

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Is Mother Nature Damaging Your Sewer Pipes?

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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One of the most common causes of sewer pipe damage is Mother Nature or environmental damage. Whether it is a tree root invading your piping or an earthquake shaking the ground, when a sewer line is compromised, it is often due to something in the environment. Knowing what hazards can potentially harm you pipes can help you identify sewer line problems quickly and get them repaired before there is more damaged to your home and property.

4 Environmental Factors on Sewer Pipe Failure

Since sewer lines are underground, anything that affects the ground on your property can also potentially harm your sewer pipes. If you know what elements can harm you pipes, you can be aware of any signs of damage. Here are the four main causes of environmental damage to sewer pipes:

  • Freezing temperatures. Extreme cold weather can freeze the liquid in your underground pipes and cause dramatic expansion inside the pipes. This can cause cracks, leaks and even a burst sewer line.
  • Earth movement. Earthquakes and other forms of shifts in the earth can offset pipes or cause damage.
  • Tree root invasion. One of the most common causes of damage to underground pipes is tree root invasion. Roots are attracted to the moisture in pipes and can infiltrate through joints.
  • Flooding. Flooding can eroded the surrounding soil and cause pipes to move and break.

If any of these factors occurs on your property, keep watch for any signs of sewer pipe damage. Be aware of any wet areas above pipe lines, slow drains in the home or foul odors. At the first sign of damage, call your local sewer repair company to have your pipes inspected for problems to reduce further damage to your property.

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

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Give Your Septic a Spring Inspection

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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After a long winter, it is finally spring and time for home maintenance. Although you may be more concerned with planting beautiful flowers or improving your outdoor space, it is important to also do necessary maintenance. Spring is a great time to do a thorough inspection on your septic system to look for any problems that may have been caused by the cold weather or regular wear and tear.

Septic System Inspection Checklist

There are many different components to your septic system that should be inspected at least once per year. This includes looking for issues within the sewer pipes between the home and tank, issues within the tank and inspecting the leech or drain field. As part of your inspection, here is a checklist of areas that should be covered: 

  • Leaks. Check the ground between the home and around the tank for wet areas. These can be signs of leaking sewer pipes or a leak in the tank.
  • Excess effluent. Inspect the drain field for backed up effluent on the surface. Excess effluent can mean that the drain field is no longer viable or that you may have a septic failure.
  • Tank levels. When you inspect the tank, you will be looking at the level of effluent, sludge and scum. If the sludge is high, you may need to schedule a pumping.
  • Tank inspection. If pumping is done, a full inspection can be performed on your tank and system. This should be completed by a septic professional.

Doing an annual inspection can help identify maintenance problems with your septic. If you find any abnormalities, call in your septic service company to do a complete evaluation of your septic.

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

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Are Sewer Line Repairs Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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If you have just found out you will need to have some or all of your sewer lines repaired or replaced, you may be wondering if homeowner insurance will cover these costs. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question without knowing how the sewer lines were damaged and what type of coverage you have on your policy. The good news is that some sewer line repairs can be covered under insurance, making it worth the effort to investigate.

Determining the Cause of Damage

One of the biggest factors in determining whether sewer pipe damage will be covered under an insurance policy is the cause of the damage. Generally, normal wear and tear or issues caused by poor maintenance are not covered by insurance. Usually it must be a circumstance that was out of your control, such as an earthquake, flood or poorly installed pipes.

If your insurance policy covers the weather or earth-moving event that caused the damage, there is a good chance that the repairs will be covered. However, keep in mind that the insurance inspectors will be looking at the condition of the pipes. In some cases, it may be determined that the pipes were not properly maintained, making them susceptible to damage.

To find out if your sewer line repairs will be covered under your home insurance, call your insurance company and ask about coverage. This is a good opportunity to find out exactly what is covered under your policy and make adjustments as needed for possible future problems. If the repairs are covered, talk to your insurance about scheduling your needed repairs with your local sewer repair company.

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

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