Septic Tank Pumping Basics

January 26th, 2016 Posted in Septic Tank Pumping
Comments Off on Septic Tank Pumping Basics

All septic tanks need to be pumped to remove solid waste that accumulates over time. However, how often this needs to be performed is dependent on many factors. The size of the tank, the amount of people living in the home and the habits of the home dwellers all impacts the frequency of septic tank pumping.

In general, most septic tanks will need to be pumped every 3-5 years if the tank is the right size for the home. Septic tanks usually must meet local regulations for size based on how many bedrooms are in the home. The idea is that a four-bedroom home is more likely to have more people living in the home and will need a larger septic tank to accommodate the family waste needs. But this is not always the case, which is one of the reasons why septic tank pumping times can greatly vary.

For example, there may only be two people living in a four-bedroom home, meaning they are filling a septic tank made to handle four or more people living in that home. It is likely that the tank would only need to be pumped every five years or even more. But a small two-bedroom home with four people living inside may need to have its tank pumped every 1-2 years instead of waiting until the third year.

Also, the amount of debris put down the drains in the home will affect pumping frequency. Solid waste is what is pumped out, so excess food debris, paper and other items put down the drains can increase how often a septic needs to be pumped.

Since there are so many factors that can affect how often a septic tank should be pumped, it is prudent to have the tank inspected once a year by a septic professional to ensure it does not become over full and is functioning correctly. Schedule your inspection today.

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

, ,
Read More

Is it Time for a New Sump Pump?

January 26th, 2016 Posted in Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps
Comments Off on Is it Time for a New Sump Pump?

Many homes are equipped with a sump pump to keep water levels from damaging the home. Most commonly this can be with homes with a basement that may flood when water levels get too high. But other homes may have portions besides the basement that are built below the water level, needing a sump pump as well. Whatever the reason for the sump pump, this equipment can prevent costly water damage so it is important to ensure your pump is working correctly. Here are a few signs that a sump pump may need to be replaced.

–          Cycling off and on too frequently. Have you noticed that your sump pump seems to be working overtime, turning on and off over and over, even when the weather isn’t overly wet? This can be a sign that the motor is failing and the continuous on and off cycle will only wear it out quicker. Have it inspected immediately.

–          The pump isn’t turning on at all. If your pump is not turning on, it can be something as simple as needing a float replacement or adjustment, or the entire pump may need replacement.

–          Too long of running cycles. Is your sump pump turning on and running for several minutes or longer? Taking too long to pump the water is a sign the motor is not doing its job correctly. Either the motor is wearing out or just too small to handle the amount of water needing to be pumped.

If you have any of these signs with your sump pump, call your local sewer company for a sump pump inspection. It may be time to replace your old pump with a newer, more efficient model.

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

, ,
Read More

Importance of a Complete Septic Inspection Before Buying a New Home

January 26th, 2016 Posted in Septic Tank Inspections
Comments Off on Importance of a Complete Septic Inspection Before Buying a New Home

There are many factors to consider when buying a new home, including whether the home is on a septic system. Unlike city sewer systems, it is up to a homeowner to maintain a septic system and this could be a major expense if the previous owner has not kept up on the home’s septic service. Most states or local municipalities will require a septic system inspection before a home can be sold. However, it is in your best interest to ensure a complete inspection is performed covering these basics.

  • Tank is pumped. For a thorough inspection to be performed, the tank should be pumped. Make sure that the tank was emptied so that the tank can be checked for structural damage. If the tank will need to be replaced soon, this could greatly affect your buying decision or the price of the home.
  • Lid inspection. The septic tank lid should be inspected for several issues, including depth, cracks, seal performance and risers. All items should meet the local standards.
  • Drain field performance. The drain field is an integral component of the entire septic system. If it is not performing correctly, the entire system could fail and need to be replaced, costing several thousand dollars or more.
  • Measurements. As part of the pre-sale inspection, the septic tank should have several measurements taken, including the level of solids, water flow from the home into the tank and waste water flow from the tank to the drain field.

All components such as baffles and other equipment should also be checked to ensure every part is in good working order. You want to start ownership of your new home with a clean slate, so make sure the septic system is thoroughly inspected for your peace of mind.

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

, ,
Read More

Identifying Drain Field Problems

January 26th, 2016 Posted in Drain Field
Comments Off on Identifying Drain Field Problems

Is your home or business on a septic system with a drain field? A properly working drain field is essential to avoid septic system failures that can cost several thousand dollars to repair or replace. Your drain field can work perfectly for years with no issues, making it easy to become complacent on regular inspections. However, identifying drain field problems early can prevent system failures and save you money. Here are a few signs to look for to catch drain filed issues before they become big problems.

  • Outdoor odors. If your drain field is working right, you shouldn’t have a bad odor around your home. If you catch a hint of sewage smell in the air, it is time to take a closer look at your drain field to determine if that is the source of the odor.
  • Pooling water. Although your drain field is constantly receiving waste water, if it is doing its job, the water should be immediately draining into the soil. Pooling water is one of the first signs that there is a problem within the drain field and you should call your septic professional.
  • Greener grass. Greener grass is not always a good thing. When the grass above your drain field is a deeper green than the rest of the lawn, you may be having a drain field issue. Too much waste material could be fertilizing the grass on your drain field, creating the greener grass but eventually it could lead to septic failure.

At the first sign of a drain field issue, call your local septic repair company. They can do a full inspection and get the source of the problem before it becomes worse.

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

, ,
Read More

Is it Worth Converting Your Home to Sewer?

January 26th, 2016 Posted in Sewer-Septic Service and Installation
Comments Off on Is it Worth Converting Your Home to Sewer?

Over the years you have learned to manage your septic system. You have a scheduled septic maintenance plan to keep it serviced and know what to avoid putting down your drains to keep it working great. But what if you could forego the ongoing maintenance needed for septic systems and switch to city sewer? If sewer conversion is an option where you live, you probably have given it some consideration. But is it worth the financial investment to convert? Here are some points to consider.

–          Yearly maintenance. Inspecting, maintaining and pumping your septic system costs money. It also takes time. If you are busy and would prefer to not to need to worry about your septic system, converting to sewer may be a worthwhile move.

–          Home value. If you are planning on selling your home, converting to sewer can help improve your home’s value and make it a more desirable property. Many potential home buyers are unwilling to purchase a home on a septic due to the ongoing maintenance.

–          Conversion costs. Some septic to sewer conversions are simple, making them more affordable. However, others are more costly due to the distance between the home and the sewer system or other hindrances on the property. Before you make any decisions on whether to convert or not, have an on-site inspection and quote performed by your local septic-sewer company that performs conversions. This will give you an accurate cost and expectation of what converting your home to sewer will entail.

For most homeowners, converting to sewer can have many benefits. Talk to your local sewer contractor to investigate your options.

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

, ,
Read More

Clear Your Sewer Lines with Hydrojetting

January 26th, 2016 Posted in Drain Cleaning
Comments Off on Clear Your Sewer Lines with Hydrojetting

Are you experiencing slow drains, or worse, sewer back-ups? You may have a clogged sewer pipe. Sewer lines, like any plumbing, can become clogged with fat, grease, hair and other debris that goes down your drains. But it is not just what you put down the drain that can cause a blockage. Sometimes the trees growing in your yard can be the culprit, with roots growing into your pipes. Whatever the reason for the clog, the easiest way to remove a sewer line blockage is with hydrojetting.

What Is Hydrojetting?

Professional sewer service companies use high pressure water to clean out sewer lines through a process called hydrojetting. Similar to pressure washing, this professional service can safely remove even severe clogs in your underground sewer lines without needing to dig up the pipes. Using specialized equipment, the high pressured water cleans the debris stuck inside the pipes and can even remove tree roots that have grown into the lines, causing blockages.

To prepare for hydrojetting, most sewer service companies will first inspect the pipes using a video camera. Using these small digital cameras, sewer professionals can find the clogs and inspect the interior of the pipes to ensure that there is not any other repairs needed. Then after the hydrojetting is completed, the pipes can be inspected again to make sure all clogs, roots and debris is removed.

Hydrojetting is a great way to remove clogs; it can also be used as part of your maintenance plan to prevent clogs. Talk to your local sewer service company about scheduling a hydrojetting service for your sewer pipes as a solution to slow drains or as a prevention measure.

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

, ,
Read More

Broken Sewer Pipe? Pipe Relining May be a Solution

January 6th, 2016 Posted in Sewer Lines
Comments Off on Broken Sewer Pipe? Pipe Relining May be a Solution

Maybe your drains began backing up in your home or you found a smelly, wet spot on your lawn – whatever the first signs, you now know you have a broken sewer pipe. It must be fixed but having your yard destroyed to dig up the pipe will ruin your expensive landscaping. There is another option that may save your landscaping and cost you less money for the repair – pipe relining.

Pipe relining is an economical solution to a broken pipe and often can be completed in just a few hours. It also has the added benefit of not needing to dig a trench to remove the old pipe, leaving your landscaping unscathed from the process. While not all sewer line breaks can be repaired with pipe relining, many can and offer a viable option for many homeowners.

Pipe relining is completed by inserting a balloon-like lining into the broken pipe at one end. It usually only requires a small hole to be dug to access the pipe end. Then the lining is expanded with hot air to adhere the resin coating to the inside of the pipe. Once the lining sets, the inside of the broken pipe now has a seamless interior that will last for many years and is even resistant to tree roots and corrosion.

If you find yourself with a broken sewer pipe, talk to your local sewer service company about repairing your pipe using pipe relining. It can also be used to reinforce all your old sewer pipes instead of replacement. It is usually much less expensive than intrusive pipe replacement and will leave your beautiful lawn intact.

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

, ,
Read More

Is Your Sump Pump Ready for a Power Outage?

January 6th, 2016 Posted in Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps
Comments Off on Is Your Sump Pump Ready for a Power Outage?

It is a catch-22. You have a sump pump to protect your home from flooding or water damage during heavy storms, but during storms the power often goes out. If your sump pump relies on electricity alone to do its job, this can leave you in a pickle. However, there are options available to ensure that even when the lights go out, your basement is staying dry while your sump pump removes the excess water from around your home. Here are a few alternatives to electricity for your sump pump.

Water-Powered Sump

There are sump pumps that use water to propel them versus electricity. Most people who use these pumps are on a city water system. However, they do use quite a bit of water and the water system must still be working. These would be best used with a backup sump pump for when the electricity goes out.

Battery-Backup

Another option to ensure your sump pump continues working during a storm is the use of a battery backup system. These systems generally use a car or marine battery to supply your sump pump energy in the case of a power outage.

Generator

Having your sump pump hooked up to a gas or diesel generator is a viable solution to ensure that your home stays dry during loss of electricity. However, sump pumps do require quite a bit of energy, drawing up to 1,800 watts when starting. It may be necessary to have a very large generator or at least one generator dedicated to your sump pump if you want to also power your home.

To explore your backup options for your sump pump, call your local sewer-septic service company to learn more about installing one of these power alternatives.

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

 

, ,
Read More

Tips to Protect Your Septic System from Winter Damage

January 6th, 2016 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Tips to Protect Your Septic System from Winter Damage

Septic systems in cold climates should be designed to withstand the extreme temperatures of winter. But what if you live in a region that rarely gets cold weather? If the last few years have taught Americans anything, it is that when it comes to weather, learn to expect the unexpected. An unexpected cold snap could put your pipes, septic tank and drain field in jeopardy of damage. However, there are a few ways to protect your system from winter damage. Consider these tips:

–          Insulate your drain field. A cold snap, especially without snow, can put your drain field at risk of freezing if it doesn’t have ample insulation. Grass and even snow can help protect your drain field pipes, but if you have neither, use mulch. Mulch can provide enough insulation to get you through those cold snaps during the winter months without damaging your drain field.

–          Inspect your septic tank cover. If your tank cover is visible, check it for any cracks or chips before the cold weather hits. If it is loose or has any damage, call your local septic service company to have it replaced.

–          Schedule an inspection. The best way to ensure your septic system is ready for the upcoming winter is to schedule your annual inspection. Ask your local experts about any preparation you need to ensure your septic system will not be compromised during a winter storm.

What could make a winter storm worse? Having your septic system freeze up when it is happening. Plan ahead to make sure your septic system and the rest of your plumbing is ready for anything Father Winter throws your way.

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

 

, ,
Read More

Is Your Septic Ready to Handle the Upcoming Holidays?

January 6th, 2016 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Is Your Septic Ready to Handle the Upcoming Holidays?

Thanksgiving and the rest of the end-of-year holidays mean plenty of festivities at your home, often including out-of-town guests taking over guest bedrooms and pull-out couches. Large meals, holiday beverages and extra people in your home means your septic system will be working overtime. The extra stress can cause an overload, turning your happy holidays into a messy septic backup. Prevent septic emergencies with these pre-holiday septic maintenance tips.

  • Schedule routine maintenance. Now is the perfect time to schedule your annual inspection. Let your local septic experts inspect your system to identify any issues before you have a house full of people during the holidays.
  • Check your pumping schedule. Are you coming due for a septic tank pump? If you had planned to have your tank pumped in the next six months, it may be better to do it before the holidays, just in case.
  • Plan for extra water use. On weeks where extra guests will be arriving, plan to do heavy water use before they arrive. Catch up on all laundry, pet baths and other cleaning/cooking chores a day or more before they arrive to cut down on water use when guests are in your home.
  • House rules. Not all your guests may understand the limitations of a septic system. Hang a sign in your guest bathroom to remind guests not to flush anything beyond waste and toilet paper down the toilet.

No one wants to have a septic emergency in the middle of a holiday weekend. By preparing ahead of time, most common septic issues can be avoided so you can enjoy your time with friends and family over the holidays.

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

 

, ,
Read More
Older Entries

Find Local Company | Find Local Sewer Septic Services