It is possible to reduce the cost of costly repairs by keeping your septic tank clean. The tank’s bacteria is constantly working to remove solid waste. It is a good idea to have it cleaned at least every three years to make sure it is functioning properly. It is best for it to be checked by a professional contractor once a year.
There are many things you can do to keep your septic tank clean. One of the first things you should do is use less water than you typically would. The more water in the tank the more difficult it will be for waste to be broken down. You can reduce water use by using water-efficient toilets, showerheads, and washing machines. You can also reduce water consumption by not running the tap while you brush your teeth and wash dishes.
When wastewater from your house is pumped into a septic tank it splits into three layers: solid (sludge), fluid (scum), as well as oil and grease. The solids settle to the bottom of the tank, while the oils and grease rise to the top. Bacteria in the septic tank break down some of the waste and distribute it to the leach field. A pump is required to remove the sludge from the tank’s bottom.
Depending on the size and needs of your home, you need a tank that can handle the amount water you use. The average American adult uses between 80-100 gallons of water per day. This translates to approximately 90 gallons of solid waste every year. The standard performance of a toilet is 50 percent of solids.
The function of your septic tank won’t be improved by adding chemicals. In fact, they can cause more harm that good. Sodium hydroxide, for example, can add more alkalinity to the system, which can cause accelerated clogging and cause a sludge buildup.
Septic tanks need very little maintenance. However, they must be pumped regularly to remove the solid waste that cannot flow into the leach field. Most septic tanks do not require pumping unless there are significant amounts of sludge. If you do notice a problem, it’s best to have it checked right away.
Septic companies will not only pump your septic tank but also inspect it. These inspections can help you identify any potential problems. A septic tank inspection is possible on a one-time or a permanent basis. These inspections are typically included in the repair costs and cost between $100 and $300.
The size of your tank as well as the number of people in your home will determine how often you need to pump your septic tank. The EPA recommends pumping your tank once every three to five years. Your situation may require you to pump your tank more frequently than this. A person with a 1,000-gallon tank might need it every nine to 12, whereas a family of five might need it every two or three years.
If you’re building a new house, you should consider building a septic tank on the site before laying the foundation of the house. Contractors won’t be allowed to drive over the tank while they’re building the house. This could cause delays in the construction process. If the septic tanks are located in an area where supplies are delivered it will prevent them driving over it. So, you may have to wait until the building process is almost complete before you can get it installed.
It can be difficult to calculate the cost of septic tank cleaning. Three local companies are the best way to estimate the cost. Three companies should be able give you a written breakdown of the cost. This way you won’t have make guesswork about the cost of your project. Septic tanks are necessary but expensive.