Should I Repair or Replace My Drain Field?

Are you having problems with your drain field? Without your drain field, your septic system is useless and will contaminate the ground around your home and backup sewage. Signs of problems with your drain field include:

  • Foul odors near drain field
  • Heavy, green growth over drain field
  • The formation of a bio-mat
  • Pooling above drain field
  • Sewage backups

If any of these issues are occurring, you have most likely a problem with your drain field. The question is, should you repair or replace your drain field?

Possible Repairs

Drain fields are simple, without much equipment. There is a distribution box and pipes that distribute the waste water throughout the drain field. If there is a problem in either of these places, it may be possible that you just need a repair. A clogged or broken pipe in your drain field can be a quick repair, or a clogged distribution box can be fixed. But if the issue is in the ground, you may be looking at larger repairs or replacement.

When a Drain Field Needs Replacement

A functional drain field is one that “percs”, meaning that the waste water efficiently filters down through the soil. If this is no longer the case, it often means the drain field needs replacement. Most drain fields last about twenty years before they are no longer viable and a new one needs to be built.

To determine whether you need a repair or replacement for your drain field problem, call in a local septic professional. They can find the problem and give you options for repair or replacement to restore your drain field’s functionality.

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

3 Things You Need Before Installing a New Septic System

A new septic system is a large undertaking; months of planning often occur before the system can finally be installed. The land must be perc’d, inspected and permits must be obtained to begin the final process. Septic systems require the right distance from the home, soil that will allow for filtration and the pipes in place for waste transportation. There are many steps that must accomplished before the system can be completed. Here are three of the things you will need before your septic system can be installed.

  1. Layout. A layout plan is needed to prepare for your septic system installation. This is like a blueprint for a home, outlining the different components of the septic. The layout will show where the pipes, tank, drain field and distribution box will be located. Keep in mind the trees and landscaping that are in place that could interfere with your plumbing.
  2. Permits. You will need permits from your county or city for your septic system. Your septic system installation company can often help with this process. An inspection is usually required before permits will be issued.
  3. Tank size. Before you can install your system, you need to decide what size tank will be needed for your home. You want a tank that will be large enough for your current and future needs. Your septic professional can help you decide what size you need.

Of course, these three steps are just a few of the many factors that should be considered before installation. Having a professional septic company to help you navigate the preparation process will make sure that your installation goes smoothly and your system will last for many years to come.

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

What Is A Percolation Test For Septic Systems?

If you are looking to buy or own rural property to build on, you may have heard that you will need a percolation test done on the property. Before a traditional septic system can be added to a piece of property, the law requires that the soil be tested for absorption. This is referred to a percolation or perc test, which evaluates how quickly water is absorbed into the earth. A failed perc test means that a leach or drain field cannot be used on the property, requiring alternative options for installing a septic system.

How A Perc Test Is Performed

Anyone can perform a perc test; however, to have a septic system installed, most states or local authorities will require that a perc test is done by a certified professional. The test records how quickly the soil absorbs water, usually by creating a hole filled with water, then timing how long it takes for the water level to lower. To past this test, soil should drain at a moderate rate, not too quickly or too slowly. This is to ensure that waste water released from the septic system into the drain or leach field will be absorbed into the soil, being cleansed before it enters the groundwater below.

What Happens If A Perc Test Fails?

If you have a perc test performed on the property and the test fails, there are still other options for installing a septic system. Although these other options may be more complicated and possibly more expensive, they may be worth exploring if the property is a desirable spot to build a home or business. Talk to your local septic professional to discuss what septic options are available in your area in the case of a failed perc test.

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