With fall here and cold weather on the horizon, now is the ideal time to prevent septic tank problems this fall by having your home's system inspected and readied. Be proactive and have a plumbing professional perform septic tank maintenance, and you will ensure that the system runs efficiently throughout the cold months.
Septic Tank Inspection
Fall is the ideal time to avoid septic tank problems by having a plumbing professional inspect the system. During inspection, a plumber will check the following:
- Septic tank cover. The cover of the septic tank, which allows for access, can become buried in the yard. Prior to cold weather, it's important to ensure that the cover is intact and secure. If the cover is at ground level, the plumbing professional will ensure its integrity and that it doesn't move when stepped on. To avoid septic tank problems, the plumber will also make certain that there are no cracks in the cover.
- Electrical and pumps. A plumbing professional will check that the entire system is performing at its optimum, including float switches, alarms and other components.
- Filters. If the system has an effluent filter system, the plumbing professional will clean or replace it, depending on what is warranted. These filters prevent solids from reaching the treatment area of the system. The baffles will also be tested at this time.
- Connections. A plumber will make sure that all of the household plumbing, including toilets, sinks, washing machine and dishwasher, are correctly and securely hooked up to the septic system and that all waste is safely being directed to the septic tank.
Measure Scum and Sludge Layers
Preventing septic tank problems also requires that scum and sludge layers are measured in the fall. A plumbing professional will visually inspect and use special tools to determine the extent of the scum and sludge layers. The results of this inspection will determine if the tank requires pumping. If the tank is one-third full, it should also be pumped.
Pump the System
It is often a good idea to have the system pumped in the fall. How often the septic system requires pumping depends on a variety of factors, including the number of people in the home and various uses of the septic system, such as if there is a garbage disposal in use and if the home has high-water-use appliances, like hot tubs.
To have the septic system flushed by a knowledgeable plumbing professional and for answers about the system, contact The Pink Plumber today.
