Faq

Yes. Maintenance logs help track tank levels, pumping dates, and any repairs that were made. Having a clear record helps technicians understand your system’s history and makes it easier to catch early warning signs of trouble.  

Cold weather can freeze pipes or slow bacterial activity if the system isn’t insulated by snow or soil. Avoid compacting snow over the drain field, and keep vehicles off the area so frost doesn’t reach the pipes. In regions with severe winters, insulation blankets or mulch can help protect the system.

Clear away any items or debris covering the access lids, and make sure there’s enough room for the service truck to park near the tank. Keep pets inside and let the technician know if you’ve noticed any unusual odors or drainage issues. Pumping usually takes less than an hour.

A septic system treats wastewater on your own property using natural filtration. A public sewer sends it to a centralized treatment plant managed by the city. With a septic setup, you’re responsible for maintenance, but you also avoid monthly sewer bills.  

That’s not recommended. Covering the area can prevent necessary air circulation and make maintenance impossible. Keep those areas clear so service crews can access lids and perform inspections when needed.  

Yes, when they’re working correctly. They filter and treat wastewater naturally, returning clean water to the soil. Problems arise only when the tank overflows or chemicals upset the bacteria that handle treatment.

The more water you use, the less time solids have to settle in the tank. Installing low-flow fixtures and spacing out showers can help the system work better. Excessive water use is one of the most common causes of premature failure.

Pooling water, bright green patches of grass, and odors above the drain field are classic signs. A failing field can’t absorb wastewater properly, which can push sewage to the surface. Addressing it early may prevent full replacement.

Stop using water and call a septic professional. Backups can signal a full tank or a blockage. Don’t try to open the tank yourself because septic gases are dangerous, and the interior can collapse. A technician can locate and correct the issue safely.  

Yes, but use it sparingly. Ground-up food increases the solid load inside the tank. If you rely on a disposal, you may need to pump more frequently. Composting kitchen scraps or tossing them in the trash is usually a better option.

Most aren’t needed, and some can cause harm. Your tank already contains the bacteria required to digest waste. Certain additives can disturb that balance or stir up solids that clog the drain field. Regular pumping and natural bacterial activity are all the system needs.

Fix leaky faucets or toilets right away, as they add unnecessary water to the tank. Spread out laundry loads through the week instead of doing them all in one day. Use water efficiently and be careful what goes down your drains to reduce strain on the system.

After solids settle in the tank, liquid wastewater flows into the drain field through perforated pipes. The soil beneath naturally filters and purifies it before the water returns to the groundwater table. When working properly, this process keeps bacteria and contaminants out of the environment.

An inspection checks the levels of sludge and scum inside the tank, tests how well the system handles water flow, and looks for leaks or cracks. The technician will also examine the baffles, filters, and outlet pipes. You’ll receive a written report showing any concerns or maintenance needs.

No. Even a single vehicle can compact the soil or crack buried pipes. Compacted soil reduces the drain field’s ability to absorb water. Always keep cars, heavy equipment, and building materials off the system.

A septic system manages all the wastewater that leaves your home. It separates solids from liquids, breaks down organic waste through bacterial activity, and filters the water back into the soil. This underground process keeps your property clean and sanitary without relying on a municipal sewer line.

For most homes, every three to five years is the right range. Larger families or smaller tanks may need pumping more frequently. The goal is to keep solids from building up so they never reach the drain field and cause permanent damage.

Slow drains throughout the house, bubbling or gurgling sounds in the pipes, and wet or smelly spots in the yard are common warnings. Toilets that take longer to flush or water backing up in the shower can also mean the tank is getting full.

Yes. When the ground is saturated, the drain field can’t absorb wastewater as efficiently. During wet seasons, keep an eye out for pooling water or soggy soil around the field and try to redirect downspouts or runoff away from that area.

Light use of standard cleaners won’t harm the system, but avoid pouring large amounts of bleach or harsh chemicals down the drain. These products can disrupt the natural bacteria that break down waste inside the tank. Look for septic-safe or biodegradable options when possible.

Avoid flushing paper towels, wipes, diapers, feminine products, and cat litter. Grease, oil, coffee grounds, and paint should also be kept out of sinks. Even “flushable” wipes don’t break down properly and can clog the pipes or add strain to the tank.

Absolutely. Regular inspections and timely pumping prevent expensive repairs later. A small problem, like a clogged filter or cracked baffle, can become a much bigger issue if left alone. Preventive care keeps the system efficient and saves you money in the long run.

The tank’s location is usually shown on your property’s site plan or inspection report. If you can’t find records, a technician can locate them with a metal probe or an electronic locator. Keep the area marked so future maintenance is easier.

Yes, tree and shrub roots naturally grow toward moisture and can invade pipes or even the tank itself. Keep large plants at least twenty feet away from the system. Shallow-rooted grass or native groundcover is a safer choice for covering the drain field.

When properly installed and cared for, a system can last between 25 and 40 years. The lifespan depends on the materials used, soil conditions, and how consistently maintenance is performed. Tanks that are pumped on time tend to last decades longer than neglected ones.

Bad smells can come from full tanks, dry plumbing traps, or blocked vent pipes. Outdoor odors usually mean gases aren’t venting properly or wastewater isn’t draining as it should. If the smell persists after a rain or heavy water use, have it checked right away.