FindLocal-SewerSeptic

This is good advice to remember for many types of systems, including our digestion, but it is especially important when it pertains to your septic system. Of course, this is not something that most people wish to talk about, much less dwell on; however, if you are a homeowner with a septic system, you will most assuredly want to monitor what goes into that system.

Unfortunately, people who are used to the convenience of city maintained sewer systems are generally unconcerned about what begins a journey in their home drainage piping. The old adage  “out of sight, out of mind,” is definitely applicable here. In most homes with a city sewer system, almost everything seems to be considered “flushable.” Although this should not be the case, it is true that what could safely be disposed of down a sewer system could, eventually, lead to costly repairs and maintenance to your septic system.

The reason for this is, in part, because your septic system, in essence, “sorts” solid waste from liquid waste. The solid waste settles down to the bottom of your septic tank, while the liquid waste is pumped out of the tank into a drainage field. Over time, most of the solid material gets broken down by bacteria; after which, it is also removed to the drainage field. Eventually, though, the remainder of the solid material on the bottom of the tank will build up, requiring a visit by your local septic professional to pump out the septic tank. Therefore, you do not want to flush or pour anything potentially hazardous (like chemicals) or items that are not biodegradable, such as dental floss, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cigarette butts, cat litter, Kleenex, cotton swabs or coffee grounds, condoms and household cleaners, among other things.

A properly designed, installed and maintained septic system provides a safe and effective means of treating and disposing of household wastewater.  A well designed septic system will usually provide dependable service for years if it is inspected every year or two and pumped as needed which is usually every three to five years.

However, homeowners should not become complacent and attempt to handle the septic tank inspection or septic tank pumping themselves.  Septic tank pumping and septic tank inspections are strictly for trained, qualified septic system professionals.  Trying to do it yourself can lead to a serious injury, illness or even death.

First, an inspection or pumping involves accessing the septic tank which contains the poisonous gas hydrogen sulfide.  This gas is created by the bacterial action in fecal matter and smells like rotten eggs.   Hydrogen sulfide attacks the central nervous system. Inhaling this gas can kill you or make you very ill so you never attempt to open the septic tank or even an access port unless you have been trained in how to do it safely.

Next, the septic tank can contain methane gas which although non-poisonous, is highly flammable.  A spark, open flame, or cigarette can set off a methane gas explosion.

Finally, it goes without saying that a septic tank contains raw sewage that may contain viruses, harmful bacteria, and other pathogens.  Exposure to raw sewage can cause infections, diarrhea, and intestinal distress.

The bottom line is that any maintenance that involves opening the septic tank including septic tank inspection and septic tank pumping should only be accomplished by a professional with the training, equipment and experience to handle the job safely.