A septic system is an alternative to municipal sewer service and removes wastewater from your home, including waste from the laundry, kitchen, baths and toilets. This wastewater contains germs and other pollutants that must be treated to protect the environment, and your health. Without proper care and maintenance, septic systems can fail, leading to costly repairs and unpleasant odors. Regular inspections and pumping can help prevent these problems.

A septic service tank is a watertight container that receives wastewater from the house, then separates the solids from the liquids. The solids settle to the bottom of the tank and are partially decomposed by bacteria. The liquids, called effluent, flow out of the septic tank into the drain field. This system of pipes and chambers is buried underground in the soil, where microbes further treat the effluent before it reaches groundwater.

Common Septic Tank Problems and How to Avoid Them

The septic tank must be inspected and pumped every two to three years, or as recommended by your septic professional. During an inspection, the professional will measure the tank layers and check for any cracks or leaks. The professional will also look for signs of sludge buildup and check the drainfield for any problems.

Signs that the septic tank is overflowing or leaking include slow drains, bad odors in the bathroom and around the drainfield area, and standing water in the yard. To avoid overflowing or leaking, never plant trees within 30 feet of the septic system and limit the number of heavy loads of laundry that you wash per day. Doing these things will allow your septic tank to have enough time to process the load and not overwhelm it with excess wastewater, which can clog your drain lines and leach field.

Busy Bee Septic and Excavating LLC
114 Houston St, Maybrook, NY 12543, United States
(845)294-5771