Preparing Your Septic System for Summer Festivities

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
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Summer is full of fun occasions with friends and family, from the first big Memorial Day weekend barbeque to the final Labor Day party. If you like to host these festive parties, you can have many extra people visiting and staying at your home, putting strain on your septic system. To ensure that your summer gatherings are not interrupted by a septic failure, make sure you prepare your septic system and home for the extra sewer waste. Here are a few tips: 

Schedule an inspection. Before you have your next big party, make sure to have your septic system inspected and annual maintenance performed. This is a good way to ensure that everything is in good working order before your guests arrive.

Ask about septic tank pumping. When you have your septic inspected, make sure to talk to your septic professional about pumping. Explain you will have excess use over the summer. Although with regular use it may not need pumping, it may be a good idea if there will be heavier use over the summer.

Plan ahead. Before your big parties, plan to do heavier water use in the days prior to guests arriving. Get laundry caught up and other high water uses done to avoid too much water in one 24-hour period.

Educate your guests. Not everyone understands the limits of a septic system. Make a bathroom sign to educate your guests on what not to flush down the toilet. A little sign can save a lot of money down the road in septic problems.

By preparing your septic system for the heavier waste during your summer gatherings, you can avoid having an embarrassing and expensive septic failure. Call your local septic service company today to start your preventive maintenance.

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

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Are You Following the Code for Backflow Prevention?

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Backflow Prevention
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If you are on a city water line, there is most likely a backflow prevention device in your home. These devices ensure that the water in your home lines does not backflow into the main water supply. In most cases this is not an issue. The pressure from the main water supply is usually much greater than your home water lines, preventing backflow. However, it certain circumstances, this may not be the case so a backflow preventer can stop your water from entering the city water supply. In many cities, there are codes requiring homeowners to install and maintain a backflow preventer in their home, or face a penalty.

Why is a Backflow Preventer Needed?

You may be wondering why backflow prevention is such a big deal. What difference does it make if your water goes back into the main water supply? It is a way to avoid accidental contamination. For example, if the pressure is reduced from a main line break or other situation in the water supply, a suction can occur pulling water from every area of your home, even your irrigation system. This can inadvertently pull contaminants like fertilizers and pesticides into the community water system.

Meeting Local Backflow Prevention Codes

If you are not sure what the codes are in your city regarding backflow prevention, talk to your local sewer service provider. They can educate you on what is needed to meet city codes. This can involve installing a backflow preventer, having backflow testing and annual inspections. Most experienced sewer service providers can provide the needed installation, testing and inspections to ensure that your home is following the backflow prevention codes for your city.

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

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Is it Time to Install a Sump Pump for Your Basement?

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps
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The last few years have brought some crazy and detrimental weather across the nation, including episodes of extreme flooding. While you cannot prevent Mother Nature from striking your home, there are ways to prepare for excess water and flooding. A sump pump is used to remove excess water from around your home’s foundation to keep your basement dry during extreme wet weather patterns. If you have experienced even slight flooding in your basement, it may be time to install a sump pump.

How a Sump Pump Works

A sump pump is installed in a basement to remove water once it reaches a certain level. To achieve this, a sump pit is usually built to drain excessive water from around the basement. The pit is devised with a float device that activates the sump pump once the pit fills to a certain level. The sump pump then removes the excess water, either pumping it into the waste system or to an area outside away from the home.

There are two different types of sump pumps: pedestal and submergible. The submergible can be put under water, while the pedestal cannot. Determining the right sump pump for your home is based on the specific needs and layout of your home. It is best to hire a professional sewer-septic professional experienced in sump pump installation to evaluate your basement and home before making a decision on which type to have them install.

A sump pump can save you thousands of dollars in water damage to your home during the wet seasons of the year. Talk to your local sewer-septic professionals today to learn more about installing a sump pump for your basement.

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

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Avoiding Drain Field Backups

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Drain Field
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One of the most common issues in a septic system is a drain field backup. This generally occurs when a biomat forms on top of the drain field, preventing the right absorption of effluent into the soil. There are many reasons this can happen, most caused by how the dwellers in the home use their septic system. With a few changes within the home, many drain field problems can be easily avoided, saving costly repairs.

Water Use

One of the biggest contributors to failing drain fields is too much water use in the home. This is especially common in homes with a smaller septic tank than is needed for the size or occupancy of the home. Took much water causes the tank to fill too quickly, not allowing for the sludge to form. Solution? Reduce the water use in the home by using water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

Chemicals

Chemicals and ingredients in many household cleaners can damage the bacterial composition of the septic system, helping create the clogging boimat in the drain field. Avoid dumping those cleaners down the drain and use cleaners formulated to be safe for septic systems.

Disposal of Waste

Certain food waste like fats, grease and oils should be kept out of the septic system, along with food particles that are slow to degrade like fruit or vegetable peelings. Also, anything non-biodegradable needs to be thrown away, not flushed down a toilet. This includes feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, baby wipes and other bathroom items.

Another way to avoid drain field backups is to ensure your tank is pumped regularly and your system is inspected for any problems. Make sure to schedule regular maintenance with your local septic company to avoid costly drain field emergencies.

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

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What Are the Advantage of Converting Septic to Sewer?

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
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If you own a home with a septic system, you know the ongoing maintenance required to keep your system functioning. As cities expand, often the opportunity arises for homes to convert to city sewer that were not able to in the past. If sewer lines have been added to your neighborhood, you may be wondering if it is worth the investment to convert your existing septic system to a sewer system. Here are some of the advantages of making that investment in your home.

  • Low maintenance. Unlike a septic system, hooking into a sewer system requires very little ongoing maintenance. You will no longer need to have your septic tank pumped, cleaned and inspected. Beyond keeping your sewer lines intact and free of clogs, sewer systems take very little maintenance from homeowners.
  • More yard space. Removing your septic system means you will eventually get the area dedicated to your drain field back. Drain fields must be protected, which means that area of your property is off limits. Once it is no longer needed, you can build, plant or do whatever you want with that part of your yard.
  • Add value to your home. If you plan to sell your home, converting to a sewer system is a wise option. A home with a sewer hookup is more valuable than one with a septic system that must be maintained. Many potential home buyers prefer not to be saddled with ongoing septic maintenance.

If you think septic to sewer conversion may be right for your home, call your local sewer-septic company. They can inspect your current system and give you a quote on how much the conversion will cost. It may be less than you think.

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

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Are Tree Roots Destroying Your Sewer Lines?

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Tree roots are the nemesis of sewer and water lines that run under your yard and lawn. Seeking water, they grow quickly toward the sewer pipes buried under the ground, looking for ways to access the moisture inside. Once they find even the tiniest crack to gain hold, the root can infiltrate the pipe and cause all types of sewer line problems, from bursting the pipe to creating a clog. It is important to be aware of tree root problems to avoid expensive sewer line repairs.

Signs of Root Sewer Line Invasion

There are a few signs that you may already have tree roots growing into your sewer lines. The first is slow drains or a backup of raw sewage into your home. This can be a sign that a tree root is clogging your pipe, causing a backup of sewage. Another sign is a wet area in your yard above the sewer lines, usually accompanied by a foul odor. This could mean the sewer line has been broken and sewage is leaking into the surrounding ground.

If you have any of these signs, call your local sewer professional to inspect your sewer lines. Using digital cameras, they can inspect the inside of the sewer lines and find the problem. If it is just a clog, many tree roots clogs can be removed through hydrojetting. If there is a break, the sewer line will need to be repaired or replaced.

Many of the newer options in sewer piping can prevent tree root invasions using seamless piping material that roots cannot penetrate. If you have tree root issues with your sewer pipes, talk to your sewer professional about relining or replacing your current pipes with seamless piping.

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

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Common Drain Field Problems

May 5th, 2015 Posted in Drain Field
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If your septic system and drain field are working the way they should, you may not even know they are there. There are no foul odors, standing water or sewer backups, just a well-performing system. Unfortunately, when something does go wrong, your drain field will be one of the first places you will begin noticing a problem. If not fixed quickly, you could have an expensive septic failure on your hands.

Causes of Drain Field Problems

You will know there is problem with your drain field if there is standing water, a bad smell or the grass is much too green in that portion of the yard. A backed up sewer line can also be a sign of drain field issues. Unfortunately, it is not as easy to find the cause of the problem and get it fixed as it is to notice that one exists. Some of the common causes include:

  • Poor soil absorption. If the soil has been compromised and is no longer absorbing quickly, your drain field may need repair or replacement. This can be caused by the use of some chemicals that bond with the clay in the soil and limit absorption.
  • Clogged drain field pipes. The pipes that release waste water from the distribution box into the drain field are perforated with small holes. These can get clogged by various items that don’t dissolve, including certain tablets or pills.
  • Thick biomat. A biomat that has become too thick can actually create a barrier that prevents absorption into the soil of your drain field.

Drain field problems can be complicated and should be addressed by a septic professional. As soon as you notice a problem, call in a professional to inspect your drain field and septic system before a small issue ends in a large and expensive repair.

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


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Difference Between a Sump and an Ejector Pump for Your Basement

May 5th, 2015 Posted in Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps
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If you own a home with a basement, there is a good change you have heard of both sump and ejector pumps, but you may not know the difference. While both are used in homes with basements to pump water up out of the lower level of the home, they do have different functions. Here is a breakdown of what each pump is used for to determine if you need either for your home.

Sump Pump Functions

Most people that have a sump pump for their home do so remove excess water from around their home’s foundation. This accumulated water can seep into the home and slowly deteriorate the foundation. The sump pump automatically turns on and removes this excess water once it reaches a certain level, protecting the home from water damage.

Another function of sump pumps is for air conditioning systems that cannot use a gravity drain system to remove condensation away from the building. This removes the moisture and places it safely away from your home.

Ejector Pump Functions

An ejector pump also removes water from the basement area, but it is from inside the basement. If you have a bathroom, laundry room or other water appliances in your basement, an ejector pump is needed to jet the wastewater up to the sewer line level. Anytime plumbing is installed below the sewer line, there is a good chance an ejector pump will be needed to facilitate wastewater removal.

Both sump and ejector pumps should be professionally installed by a plumbing and sewer expert to prevent expensive plumbing and water damage problems down the road.

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

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Are You Considering Converting from Septic to Sewer?

May 5th, 2015 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
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Have you been given the opportunity to connect to a municipal sewer line at your home? While there are some advantages to owning a septic system, most people prefer the convenience of a city sewer service. While septic systems do not require a monthly fee, they do need ongoing maintenance and repairs that can add up to as much, if not more, than the costs of paying for sewer service. If you are considering switching, here are a few things to keep in mind.

No More Equipment Maintenance or Pumping

Owning a home with a septic system means you must perform regular maintenance on the equipment, plus have your tank pumped every few years. Once you convert to sewer, there is very little maintenance that must be done.

Get Your Yard Back

For years parts of your yard have been off-limits due to your drain field. By converting to sewer, you will eventually get the full use of your yard back once the drain field is no longer needed or necessary.

Increase Your Home’s Value

If selling your home is in your future, a conversion to sewer is a wise move. Many people will forego even looking at a home for sale if it is on a septic system.

If you make the decision to move forward with a septic to sewer conversion, you need a trusted sewer-septic company that can help you through this transition. There are permits and legalities that must be followed, so find a local company that has expertise in these conversions. A quality sewer company will handle many of the regulatory issues for you and help you transition smoothly from septic to sewer in your home.

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

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Importance of Septic Maintenance for Restaurants

May 5th, 2015 Posted in Grease Traps
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If you own a restaurant that is on a commercial septic system, maintaining this system should be a top priority. While you may be more concerned with the quality of your food and service, a septic system problem can undo all your efforts to provide a quality food establishment. Not only do most city ordinances require certain levels of septic maintenance, a malfunctioning system can shut down your restaurant, cause you to be fined and drive away customers.

High Usage Requires High Maintenance

Your restaurant’s septic system is put through much more than most commercial businesses. You are more likely to have more customers using the restroom than other types of businesses, creating more stress on your septic system. It is impossible to regulate what customers are flushing down the toilets, plus there is more food waste than can make it down into your septic tank.

All this high use requires more septic maintenance than many other types of businesses. You need to be concerned with regular pumping of your tank, plus maintenance to ensure all your septic equipment is working properly. Getting on a regular maintenance schedule with your local commercial septic service can prevent septic emergencies and potential shutdowns or fines due to a poorly functioning septic system.

Grease Trap Cleaning

Along with your septic maintenance, your restaurant may also require regular grease trap pumping and cleaning. Full grease traps can cause sewer clogs and can fill your restaurant with a nasty odor, which is not conducive to selling food. Talk to your septic company about adding grease trap cleaning to your septic maintenance package.

What goes in, must go out. If you own a restaurant with a septic, make sure you are concerned with both the food going into your customers’ mouths and the waste leaving your building to ensure the success of your business.

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

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