Cleaning Your Home's Septic Tank
Posted on: 23 February 2023
Your home's septic tank may be central to your plumbing system. However, you might not struggle with managing the septic tank if you believe in some myths about this part of your house.
Myth: A Properly Balance Septic Tank Never Needs Pumping
The bacteria in the septic tank must be in a careful balance to break down the solid waste you put in it. This can cause some homeowners to assume that keeping this bacteria in balance will spare them from the need to pump their tanks. In reality, waste will still accumulate in these tanks, and this means they will have to be pumped regardless. However, ensuring a proper balance of bacteria in your tank can extend the time your system can go between pumpings.
Myth: Septic Safe Products Eliminate The Need For Pumping
Using septic-safe products in your home dramatically reduces the risk of septic issues developing because these products are designed to rapidly breakdown. However, using these products will not eliminate the need to pump the home's septic tank. Over time, septic-safe products will collect inside the tank. Eventually, a severe clog can form that can disrupt the system.
Myth: Cleaning A Septic Tank Is Only Needed When The System Has Problems
Ideally, pumping the septic tank is a preventative measure. This type of cleaning will eliminate debris that could create clogs in the system. However, it will not correct problems that have already developed. Instead, you must arrange for separate repairs to be performed. For example, the technician may insert specially designed tools into the septic tank's drain lines. These tools can provide a video feed of the system's interior and breakup clogs that have formed to restore the flow of water through the system. When this is not an option, excavation may be needed to remove the clogs. Regular septic tank cleaning is the most effective option for eliminating this problem.
Myth: Septic Cleaning Takes An Entire Day Or Longer To Complete
The amount of time cleaning the septic tank requires can be easy to overestimate. Despite this being a major maintenance task, it is relatively short. In fact, septic tank cleaning will require only a few hours for most systems. In cases of severe waste accumulation or particularly large tanks, it may take longer. Before starting the pumping and cleaning process, the contractor will inform you of the estimated time needed, which can help you make plans to be without running water.
For more information on septic tank cleaning, contact a professional near you.
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