Five Things to Avoid if You Own a Septic System

February 24th, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Five Things to Avoid if You Own a Septic System

Septic systems are notoriously expensive to replace, making maintenance the most important aspect of owning a septic. While annual inspections and regular tank pumping are a big part of maintenance of your septic system, the most important parts of system protection are remembering the things you shouldn’t do. Here are five things to avoid to help preserve the integrity of your septic system and prolong its life.

  • Fat and grease. Fat, grease and oil are poison to a septic system, creating more waste which needs to be pumped and causing issues in the system. Avoid allowing fats and oils to be dumped down drains. Scrape out cooking pans and wipe them clean of fats and grease before washing them in the sink or dishwater.
  • Tree roots. It’s important to know where your sewer lines and septic components are when planting new trees in your yard. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture in your septic system, and root intrusion can cause serious trouble.
  • Drain field compression. Under no circumstance should vehicles be allowed to drive over your drain field. This can damage the drain field and even result in septic system failure.
  • Excess water use. Conserving water use can add years onto the life of your septic system. Practice water conservation by avoiding running water down drains unnecessarily and fixing water leaks immediately.
  • Chemicals. Household chemicals, like bleach and other harsh agents, can destroy the bacteria in your septic tank and make it less efficient. Antibacterial cleaners are specifically harmful to this delicate balance, so be careful not to overuse these products. 

Keeping your septic system healthy is easier to do if you can avoid these common issues. When paired with regular maintenance, many septic systems can last for decades.

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

, ,
Read More

Three Signs of Septic System Problems

February 24th, 2015 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
Comments Off on Three Signs of Septic System Problems

Most septic systems can function without issues for years on end with no major issues, especially if they’re inspected regularly by a septic professional. Annual inspections can uncover any potential problems before they happen, providing you with the opportunity to fix these issues before you encounter a septic emergency. Some problems can still occur, however, leading to sewer backups and even a complete system failure. To resolve these problems quickly, here are three signs that your septic system is not working correctly:

  1. Foul Odors — One of the first and most noticeable signs of a brewing septic problem is a foul odor. This could be in your home, your yard or near your drain field. If your septic system is working correctly, you shouldn’t be experiencing bad odor at all, as the waste should be contained within the system.
  2. Pooling Water — If you see pooling water in your yard, around your septic tank or in your drain field, something may be amiss in your system. Wet areas in your yard could mean a broken or leaking sewer pipe, while pooling water near your septic tank could mean a leak in your tank. Drain fields with wet areas are a sign the water isn’t draining correctly into the ground, and can result in septic failure.
  3. Sewer Backups — If you’re noticing that drains in your home are slow or wastewater backing up in sinks or bathtubs, you need to call your septic professional. It’s possible that you’re dealing with an interior plumbing problem, but it can also be a sign of a major problem within your septic system.

Any of these signs is a good reason to call in a professional to get your system inspected. Early detection of septic problems is the best way to reduce the cost of repair, and to avoid needing a full system replacement.

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

, ,
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

What Is A Septic D-Box?

December 5th, 2014 Posted in Septic System
Comments Off on What Is A Septic D-Box?

One of the many components found in traditional septic systems is a distribution box, or d-box. This is a small collection box located between the septic tank and the drain field, usually only a few feet wide and long with a few different outlet which disperse affluent to different areas in the drain field that comes from the septic tank.

D-Box Basics

Many d-boxes are made from concrete, but they can also be made from fiberglass or plastic. The box will have several outlets, as well as an inlet from the septic tank. The d-box must be sealed, with a removable lid. Specifications for installation may vary in different states, counties and cities, but most boxes are put in the ground, no more than 12 inches from the surface.

The importance of the d-box is in the distribution of affluent. This spreads the affluent to several different drain pipes, which allow the affluent to be properly filtered through the soil. Never remove a d-box without replacing it with a new box. Your local septic service company can install a new box or repair it.

A leaking or flooding d-box is the most common problem with this component. Most flooding issues are a problem with the drain field, not the box. Leaks can happen as the box corrodes though, creating a need for replacement. If you notice pooling or flooding around your d-box, you should call your septic professional immediately. Problems with the d-box can lead to destruction of your drain field and end in expensive septic system failures. Your septic service technician can offer solutions for replacement or repair.

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

, ,
Read More

4 Things Never To Put Down The Drain With A Septic System

October 24th, 2014 Posted in Septic Tank Pumping
Comments Off on 4 Things Never To Put Down The Drain With A Septic System

It cannot be over-emphasized – what you put down your drains has a huge impact on your septic system. For people who have always lived in homes with city sewer connections, getting used to the limitations of a septic system can be difficult. However, if you aren’t diligent about keeping certain items out of your septic tank, you may be in for a very expensive repair or septic replacement in the future. Here are the top four items you should never allow down your drain and into your septic system:

  1. Fats or grease. Any kind of fat, oils or grease from food needs to be put in the garbage, not down your drain. This is true for almost any home, since these items cause clogs in plumbing, but even more important in homes with a septic system.
  2. Chemicals. Any chemicals like solvents, harsh cleaners, paint, pesticides or fuel need to be kept out of your septic tank. They can destroy the friendly bacteria which break down solid waste, disturbing the delicate balance that makes your septic system work properly.
  3. Hard foods. Any hard food items should be considered poor candidates for disposal down the drain, even with a garbage disposal. This includes items like coffee grounds, egg shells or nutshells. Also, avoid fibrous and hard to break down produce peelings or trimmings.
  4. Paper and plastic products. Keeping paper out of your septic system can prevent major problems. The most common paper culprits are excess toilet paper, paper towels and feminine hygiene products. In addition, any plastic items like wrappers, birth control devices and even cigarette filters need to be kept out of the toilet.

It’s important to educate your entire family about what cannot be flushed or dumped down the drain in your home. At a minimum, you can reduce the frequency of septic tank pumping and you may avoid waking up one day to a backed-up septic system, which will require an emergency call to your local septic service contractor.

Posted on behalf of Metro Septic and Plumbing

, ,
Read More

Types Of Septic Systems

January 28th, 2014 Posted in Drain Field
Comments Off on Types Of Septic Systems

Although most people think of a conventional system when they think of a septic system, there are actually several different types of systems. These are generally broken into two categories, conventional and alternative, with different types in each. With new technology and a greater concern for the environment, the types of septic systems available is constantly growing and changing.

Conventional Septic Systems

There are two types of conventional sewer systems: gravity and pressure. Both consist of a septic tank and drain field, but the way the waste water or effluent is distributed to the drainfield is different. Basic or standard systems use a gravity flow system. However, most newer conventional sewer systems use pressure, which uses a pump to more evenly disperse waste water throughout the drainfield.

Alternative Septic Systems

Alternative septic systems are generally used in areas where a conventional drainfield is not possible or prudent. These include:

  • Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU). An ATU uses oxygen to further breakdown solids within the septic tank to release cleaner waste water into the drainfield. This is often used when the drainfield is not able to properly treat the waste water, or in environmentally sensitive areas.
  • Sand filter systems. A sand filtration system is usually made with a concrete box which contains sand and gravel to filter waste water before it is pumped to a drainfield. This is typically used in areas without sufficient soil for the treatment of waste water.
  • Mound system. In areas which do not have the soil capacity for proper treatment of waste water before it enters the ground water, a mound system may be used. This essentially raises the drainfield above the ground and is man-made.

If you are replacing an old septic or creating a new system, talk to your septic professional about what would work best for your property. There are also other proprietary systems which may be a good fit for your needs.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

Google

, ,
Read More

Warning Signs A Septic System Is Failing

January 28th, 2014 Posted in Drain Field
Comments Off on Warning Signs A Septic System Is Failing

Having your septic system fail can be expensive, messy and time consuming. While many septic systems may last for decades, all septic systems eventually will need to be replaced. However, knowing the signs which indicate your septic system is having problems or may be failing can alert you in time to either get it fixed or at least have it replaced before it does more damage to your home and property.

First Signs Of Septic Failure

When there is a problem with your septic system, there are several signs that the system is failing. Whether it is a problem with your drainfield, pump or an overall system failure, there are tell-tale signs that it is time to call a septic professional.

  • Odor. One of the most obvious signs there is a problem with your septic system is a bad odor. This could be near your drainfield, septic tank or in your plumbing within the home.
  • Slow draining. If your drains in the home are slow, it may be a sign that the septic system is not working correctly.
  • Wet spots or standing liquid over drainfield. If there are noticeable wet areas or standing liquid on your drainfield, especially in dry weather, your drainfield may be failing and in need of drain field repairs or replacement.
  • Backups. If you have sewage or contaminated water (usually black with a very unpleasant odor) backing up in your plumbing or septic system, you need to have your septic system looked at immediately.
  • Gurgling. If you hear gurgling sounds in your plumbing system, it may be a symptom of septic failure.

If you have any of these signs, call your septic professional right away to get a diagnosis of the problem. Many issues can be resolved if identified before they get worse; however if the septic system or drainfield needs to be replaced, it is better to know sooner than later.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

Google

, ,
Read More

How Landscaping Decisions Can Affect Your Septic System

December 18th, 2013 Posted in Drain Field
Comments Off on How Landscaping Decisions Can Affect Your Septic System

One of the most appealing aspects of a property can be a well-designed and maintained landscape. Graceful, mature trees can have a positive impact on your home’s curb appeal and resale value. They can also have a negative impact on your septic system, depending on their location.

There’s a lot going on beneath the surface of the soil on your property. Your septic system is managing the waste flow from your home, pipes carry water inside and the roots of all those gorgeous trees and shrubs are expanding. If those roots happen to make their way into your septic system through cracks and joints in the pipes, you may find yourself facing a septic system problem or two.

Slow drainage is often one of the first signs the root system of a tree has found a way into your septic system. If root growth continues unchecked, the chances of pipe breakage and sewage leaks increases. It’s not unheard of for tree roots to contribute heavily to the complete failure of a septic system, which can be very costly and inconvenient.

One surefire way to prevent tree root interference with your septic system is to make a point of learning where your drainfield, tank and pipes are located. The only thing you should plant over the drainfield is a short-rooted grass variety; trees and even shrubbery can put down roots which may later interfere with the septic system.

In the case of existing trees, it’s important to call a licensed septic maintenance professional if you suspect possible root interference. A septic system professional can determine the scope of the problem, and safely remove any offending trees without causing further damage to your system.

Posted on behalf of Keith Lee, Metro Septic and Plumbing

Google

, ,
Read More

Duluth GA Drain Field Repair and Installation

October 23rd, 2013 Posted in Septic System
Comments Off on Duluth GA Drain Field Repair and Installation

If you are a homeowner with a septic system it is very important to pay close attention to the warning signals your septic tank is giving to you.

  • Bad odors. This is one of the biggest red flags that your septic system isn’t performing the way it should. You should watch out for smells like rotten eggs or sewage. This is the smell of methane gas seeping through your septic system. You need to contact your local septic system professional. ASAP!
  • Wet or soggy areas around your drain fields. This can mean the drain field is clogged from roots or biomaterial that has built up over time, which causes a backup of sludge and other waste. This can cause a very serious environmental and health hazard in the soil.
  • Very slow drains and toilets. This could mean that your septic tank is filled to the brim or there may be damage in the pipes. If you hear a gurgling sound from the drains, this is a good indication that the waste and water are not flowing as freely as they should be.
  • No harm no foul. Problems in your septic could be happening right under your nose without giving you any warnings.  If you have not had your septic system pumped and inspected in over two years you could have leaks, back-ups and problems within the tank.  It is very important to the health of your septic system, property and your family to have your tank pumped and inspected every one to two years.

Remember, take responsibility of your septic system and always consult your septic system professionals when you discover signs of a problem.

Posted on behalf of Mike Smith, A-Flo Free Septic

Google

, ,
Read More

Are All Septic Systems Built the Same?

October 23rd, 2013 Posted in Septic System
Comments Off on Are All Septic Systems Built the Same?

There are many different types of septic systems.  Some include pressure distribution, sand filter, mound, gravity and aerobic. It is important to consult with your septic system installer about which system is the best fit for your situation.

Pressure Distribution

Pressure distribution systems are used when there is not enough soil depth to accommodate gravity-based systems.  This system has a pump that distributes wastewater evenly throughout the drainage field.  The pump tank holds wastewater until a certain point before it releases it into the drainage field.

Sand Filter

Sand filter systems are one of the more common types of septic systems.  This system uses sand between the pump tank and the drainage field.  The sand is used to treat the wastewater before it enters the field. If you live in an area with shallow soil, this is the system you would need.

Mound

The mound design is also used when the soil isn’t deep enough for a traditional system.  These types of septic systems have a sand-filled mound raised over the natural soil above a drainage field.  The wastewater is treated as it travels through the sand and into the natural soil.

Gravity

This is one of the first types of septic systems.  Gravity is used to drain wastewater from the tank into a series of trenches. Because this system uses gravity, the drainfield must be below the level of the septic tank.  The bottom of the trenches must be three or four feet above the water table.  This soil above the water table is used to treat the wastewater before it returns to the environment.

Aerobic

This system is equipped with a watertight tank that has an aeration chamber. Waste is broken-down by bacteria in the aeration chamber.  This system is capable of producing cleaner wastewater.

Posted on behalf of Chuck Seagraves, Seagraves Plumbing

Google

, ,
Read More
Older Entries
Newer Entries

Find Local Company | Find Local Sewer Septic Services