It is possible to reduce the cost of costly repairs by keeping your septic tank clean. The bacteria in the tank is constantly working to eliminate solid waste. It is a good idea that it be cleaned at the least once every three year to ensure it is in good condition. It is best to get it checked by a professional contractor at least once a year.
There are many things that you can do to help keep your septic tank clean. One of the first things you should do is use less water than you typically would. The more water that is in the tank, it is more difficult for waste to be dissolved. Water-efficient toilets and showerheads can help reduce water consumption. You can also save water by not running the faucet while brushing your teeth or washing your dishes.
The septic tank separates wastewater from your home into three layers: solid waste, liquid waste (scum), 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. The tank will need to be pumped when the sludge has reached the bottom.
Depending on how big your home is, you will need a septic system that can handle the amount you use. Most American adults use between 80 and 100 gallons of water a day. This equates to roughly 90 gallons of solid trash per year. Generally speaking, the standard performance of a septic tank is 50 percent reduction of solids.
The function of your septic tank won’t be improved by adding chemicals. In fact, they can cause more harm that good. For example, sodium hydroxide can increase the alkalinity of the system, which can accelerate clogging and lead to sludge buildup.
Septic tanks are very easy to maintain. 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. However, it is best that you get it checked as soon as possible if there is a problem.
Septic companies will not only pump your septic tank but also inspect it. These inspections can identify potential problems. An inspection of the septic tank can be performed on a single occasion or when you purchase a new property. These inspections can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, and are often included in the repair cost.
The size of your tank, as well the number of people who live in your home, will impact how often you need pump your septic tank. The EPA recommends that you pump your tank every three to five year. However, your specific situation may require a more frequent pumping than this. For example, a single person with a 1,000-gallon tank may need it every nine to 12 years, while a family with five people may require pumping every two to 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 able drive over the tank site while building the house. This could delay the construction process. If the septic system is located near where supplies are delivered, they will be unable to drive 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 for you to estimate the cost of a cleaning your septic tank. Three local companies are the best way to estimate the cost. The companies should be able to give you a detailed cost breakdown in writing. This way, you won’t have to make a decision based on guesswork. Although they are necessary, they are also very expensive.