When Should You Have Your Septic System Serviced?

question-markIf you’re one of many homeowners utilizing a septic system for your wastewater needs, then you may wonder if it’s important to have that system professionally maintained and serviced. The answer is yes! So, how often should this happen? We recommend that the average family have their services every 3 to 4 years. Professional septic tank flushing and maintenance ensure that the tank doesn’t undergo too much stress.

Our professional septic system services also help balance the bacteria levels so that the septic tank can do its job effectively. Otherwise, you could find yourself with a frustrating and unhygienic problem on your hands. Read on as we talk more about maintaining bacteria levels and the importance of professional septic system services.

The Importance of Bacteria

Typically, when you hear the word “bacteria” you tend to think of harmful bacteria. Bacteria is what makes us ill, right? You’re not totally wrong, but you may not be aware that there is also good bacteria. And it’s good bacteria that your septic tank actually needs to break down all the waste and anything else that goes into the system. This includes:

  • Laundry Detergents
  • Cleaning Disinfectants
  • Toilet Cleaning Solutions
  • Bleach
  • Acids
  • Cleaning Compounds like Polishes and Sink and Tub Cleaners
  • Caustic Liquid Drain Cleaners

The Harm of Liquid Drain Cleaners

Allow us to digress for a moment—you’ll see that we mentioned caustic liquid drain cleaners above. The keyword here is caustic. Drain cleaners, also called drain openers, that you can buy at the store are actually pretty harmful. We’re referring to them as caustic because they’re comprised of highly corrosive chemicals. These chemicals aren’t just harmful to your septic system, they’re harmful to your entire drainage system.

What happens is that after these drain cleaners cut through whatever is stopping up the pipe, they start eating at the lining of the pipe itself, until you find yourself facing leaks and potentially even burst pipes. Professional drain cleaning is needed to truly keep your plumbing in good shape.

Pumping Your Septic Tank

Alright, back to your septic tank—pumping this system is a vital part of professional sump pump maintenance. Waste material and sludge accumulate in the bottom of the tank as a natural part of the sump pump process. However, it needs to be pumped out on occasion.

How often this should be done depends on a variety of factors, from the size of the tank and how much use it gets, to the overall condition of your septic system. There is no additive, unfortunately, that you can put down the tank that will manage this sludge. It has to be pumped out, otherwise, it will begin overflowing into the soil absorption area which can clog your septic system and cause further damage.

What if I Already Have Septic System Damage?

Not to worry—give us a call! We provide a locating service that utilizes an electronic device that can be flushed or snakes through an inside fixture to accurately pinpoint your septic system and what the issue with it might be. From there we can quickly and accurately fix your septic system problems.

HB Energy Solutions delivers peace of mind, through waste-water treatment in Southern Vermont and more! Contact us today.

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