If your home’s septic system is not maintained properly, the tank’s contents can escape into the soil or freshwater sources nearby. In either case, contaminants from the septic system can enter communities’ drinking water for miles. When your system becomes clogged with sludge, it slows down and blocks water flow; that’s when you need septic cleaning Lake villa, IL. When the sludge accumulates so that it cannot be moved any further, the septic system may need to be replaced.
Inspecting a septic system once a year
Inspecting a septic system is crucial to keep it operating at peak efficiency. Sewage enters the soil through perforated pipes and filters itself through the ground. If your septic system passes an inspection and fails to fix any problems, you need to fix them and schedule another inspection. Typically, a home inspector will conduct a visual septic inspection of your system, including a toilet flush and the drain field, to ensure proper distribution and water pressure.
A septic inspection should be scheduled in conjunction with a general property inspection. By scheduling them close together, you minimize the chances of problems delaying the deal’s closing. If you’re buying a house that includes an integrated septic system, you should find out when the last septic inspection was performed and any previous standing water problems. When scheduling your inspection, be sure to have the system inspected yearly.
Pumping a septic tank regularly.
There are many reasons to pump your septic tank. First, pumping your septic system helps remove waste and liquids from the wastewater in your house. The pumping frequency depends on the size of your tank and the number of people who use it. In general, systems with less than five people require pumping every 5.2 years. Pumping frequency is also affected by the age of your system, which may require pumping more often than those with older systems.
When you pump a septic tank, you must measure how much scum is in the tank. Dark sludge will cling to a velcro strip on the measuring stick. If it is more than a foot thick, it’s time for a septic tank pump. You can also make your measuring stick by cutting a 7-foot stick or a two-by-four in half and velcroing the ends.
Environmental problems caused by sludge buildup in a septic tank
A septic tank’s top layer is made of sludge and floating scum. Each takes up a particular percentage of the tank’s total volume. The liquids in this layer, called effective volume, are separated by a process called anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria break down organic matter in the sludge, producing various gases and soluble compounds in the liquid effluent. This separation process eventually leads to a clarified wastewater called effluent, which is then discharged into a drain field.
Sludge can reduce the efficiency of bacteria in the wastewater treatment process. As bacteria need oxygen to digest sludge, the sludge layer can reduce their efficiency by as much as 90%. This inefficiency results in foul odors and harmful gases. When sludge accumulates in the bottom of a septic tank, the sludge layer causes the wastewater to smell and produce methane.
Proper maintenance of a septic system
When it comes to your home’s sewage system, proper maintenance is crucial. Not only will it ensure a safe and healthy environment, but it will also increase the property value. Not only will a faulty septic system be more costly to repair, but it may even pose legal issues. A septic system can release harmful bacteria and viruses into the groundwater if not properly maintained. These pollutants can harm aquatic life nearby.
The best way to maintain your septic system is to monitor water usage and the contents of your drain field. Be sure not to drive or park on it because this could potentially cause it to saturate. The same goes for sump pumps and gutters. They should empty far from the drain field. Finally, don’t plant trees or shrubbery near your septic system. Their roots could damage the pipes and cause a clogged septic tank.
