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5 Common Septic Tank Mistakes Homeowners Make

Posted on November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by relentless

(And How to Avoid Them)

Maintaining a septic tank may seem straightforward, but many homeowners unknowingly make costly mistakes. Here are five common errors and some practical tips for avoiding them, so you can keep your septic system healthy and functional.

Mistake #1: Overloading the System with Water

Why It’s a Problem
Too much water in your septic system can prevent waste from properly separating in the tank. When wastewater flows in faster than the system can handle, solids might escape into the drain field, leading to clogs and possible system failure.

How to Avoid It
Spread out water usage throughout the day, and avoid using multiple water-heavy appliances (e.g., washing machine, dishwasher, shower) simultaneously. Installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and water-efficient appliances can also help reduce strain on your system.

Mistake #2: Flushing Harmful Items

Why It’s a Problem
Flushing non-biodegradable items or chemicals can clog pipes, disrupt the bacterial balance in your septic tank, and prevent waste from breaking down properly. Items like ‘flushable’ wipes, feminine products, and harsh chemicals are particularly harmful.

How to Avoid It
Stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper. For everything else, use a waste bin. Avoid using bleach or antibacterial products regularly in your drains, as these can kill the necessary bacteria in your septic tank.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Regular Pumping and Inspections

Why It’s a Problem
Neglecting routine maintenance, like pumping and inspections, allows solids to accumulate in your tank, which can lead to clogs, backups, and even system failure. Regular maintenance prevents these issues and extends the life of your septic system.

How to Avoid It
Schedule a professional inspection and pumping every three to five years, depending on your household size and usage. Regular maintenance is an investment that will save you from costly repairs down the line.

Mistake #4: Using the Drain Field Improperly

Why It’s a Problem
The drain field is an essential part of your septic system, as it treats and filters wastewater. Parking heavy vehicles, planting trees, or building structures over the drain field can damage pipes and compact soil, hindering its ability to absorb water.

How to Avoid It
Keep the drain field clear of heavy objects and avoid planting trees or large shrubs nearby. Opt for shallow-rooted plants that won’t interfere with the pipes, and don’t allow vehicles or heavy machinery to pass over this area.

Mistake #5: Relying on Septic Tank Additives

Why It’s a Problem
While some products claim to boost septic system performance, additives can actually disrupt the natural bacterial process and may harm your septic system. They are often unnecessary and could cause more harm than good.

How to Avoid It
Instead of using additives, rely on regular pumping and maintenance to keep your septic system functioning well. A balanced and healthy septic system should not require chemical assistance.

Final Tips for Septic System Health

Educate Your Household: Make sure everyone knows what can and cannot go down the drain.
Conserve Water: Reducing water usage lessens the load on your system.
Use Septic-Safe Products: Choose cleaning and personal care products that are labeled safe for septic systems.

By avoiding these common mistakes and practicing regular maintenance, you can ensure that your septic system remains reliable, preventing unexpected repairs and costly damage. A little care goes a long way in preserving the health of your septic system and protecting your home.

For more septic information and service, call Action Septic Tank Service at 770-922-1434 and visit our website, Action Septic Tank Service.

Action Septic Tank Service is located in Alpharetta-Milton, GA, in North Fulton County. We provide residential, commercial and industrial septic and sewer service for North Atlanta, Metro Atlanta and surrounding areas. We are open daily from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM and also provide emergency service.

Septic and Sewer Services: septic pumping, septic cleaning, maintenance, inspections, installations, line repair and replacement, drainfield repair and replacement, hydro jetting, sewer line cleaning, sewer line repair and replacement, dry wells, alternative systems, backhoe work, backflow prevention, excavating, septic treatments, grease trap cleaning and care

North Atlanta – Metro Atlanta Service Areas: Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Buford, Canton, Crabapple, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Gainesville, Gwinnett, Holly Springs, Johns Creek, Lanier, Marietta, Metro Atlanta, Milton, Norcross, North Atlanta, North Fulton, Peachtree Corners, Roswell, Sandy Plains, Sandy Springs, South Forsyth, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Waleska, West Cobb, Woodstock

North GA Counties: Barrow County, Cherokee County, Cobb County, Dawson County, DeKalb County, East Cobb County, Fayette County, Forsyth County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, North Fulton County, South Forsyth County, West Cobb County

The Do’s and Don’ts

Posted on November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by relentless

Flushing: Keeping Your Septic System in Top Shape

A well-functioning septic system is essential to maintaining a healthy home and environment, yet many homeowners unknowingly harm their systems by flushing the wrong items. Understanding what is safe to flush and what isn’t can prevent costly repairs, reduce environmental impact, and prolong the life of your septic system.

What You Should Never Flush

‘Flushable’ Wipes
Despite their name, ‘flushable’ wipes don’t break down in the septic system as easily as toilet paper. These wipes can accumulate, causing blockages and even leading to major backups. Stick to toilet paper only—it’s designed to break down quickly in water.
Paper Towels and Tissues
Unlike toilet paper, paper towels and tissues are not made to dissolve in water. These materials can clog pipes and create backups. Keep a trash bin near your toilet to discard these items safely.
Feminine Hygiene Products
Items such as tampons and sanitary pads absorb moisture and expand, which can lead to severe blockages in the septic tank and pipes. Instead, dispose of these products in a trash can.
Cotton Swabs, Dental Floss, and Hair
Although small, items like cotton swabs, dental floss, and hair do not break down in the septic system. They can clump together, causing blockages over time. These materials are better disposed of in the trash.
Medications
Flushing medications can introduce harmful chemicals into your septic system, which can disrupt the bacterial balance needed for waste breakdown. Instead, dispose of expired or unused medications through a local pharmacy or community take-back program.
Harsh Chemicals and Cleaning Agents
Household cleaners, bleach, and other strong chemicals can kill the bacteria in your septic tank responsible for breaking down waste. Opt for septic-safe or biodegradable cleaning products that won’t harm your system.

What Is Safe to Flush

The only things that should go down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Toilet paper is designed to dissolve quickly and won’t harm your septic system. For all other waste, including personal hygiene products, chemicals, and cleaning wipes, use a trash bin.

Tips for Maintaining Your Septic System

Educate Household Members
Inform everyone in your home about what can and cannot be flushed. Often, children or guests may not be aware of the impact that flushing certain items can have on your septic system.
Install Septic-Friendly Fixtures
Some plumbing fixtures and toilets are specifically designed to be more compatible with septic systems, such as low-flow toilets that reduce the strain on the system by conserving water.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Preventative maintenance goes a long way in avoiding septic issues. Regular inspections by a professional can catch small problems before they escalate into costly repairs.

By sticking to these flushing guidelines, you’ll not only keep your septic system in top shape but also extend its life, protect your home, and contribute to a healthier environment.

For more septic information and service, call Action Septic Tank Service at 770-922-1434 and visit our website, Action Septic Tank Service.

For Some of You It’s Time:

Posted on November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by relentless

Time of Year Again for Septic Tank Maintenance!

Introduction:

Acknowledge the seasonal change and the importance of preparing home systems, including septic tanks, for the colder months.
Briefly explain why fall is an ideal time for septic maintenance due to lower groundwater levels and milder weather.

The Importance of Fall Septic Maintenance:

Preventing Winter Freezing: Emphasize the need to pump tanks and ensure pipes are in good condition to avoid freezing, which can cause blockages or pipe bursts.
Avoiding Backup and Overflow Risks: Explain how a well-maintained system is less likely to experience backups or overflows, which can be even more problematic in winter.

Essential Fall Maintenance Steps:

Inspection: Describe a full-system inspection, including looking for cracks, leaks, and root intrusions. Include specific signs to watch for, like wet patches or foul odors around the tank area.
Pumping the Tank: Guide readers on how often a tank should be pumped (usually every 3-5 years, depending on household size and usage) and why fall is an ideal time for this.
Checking and Cleaning Filters: Mention the importance of checking filters and baffles, which prevent solids from entering the drain field.
Pipe Insulation: In colder climates, consider insulating pipes to prevent freezing, and explain how insulation can keep systems functioning smoothly.

action septic tank service alpharetta-2Alpharetta, Atlanta, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Buford, Canton, Crabapple, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Gwinnett, Johns Creek, Marietta, Metro Atlanta, Milton, Norcross, North Atlanta, North Fulton, Peachtree Corners, Roswell, Sandy Plains, Sandy Springs, South Forsyth, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, West Cobb, Woodstock

Signs You May Need Immediate Attention:

Slow Drains: Point out how slow-draining sinks and toilets could signal a nearly full tank.
Gurgling Noises in Pipes: Describe how unusual sounds might indicate an issue in the system’s drainage process.
Bad Odors: Explain that lingering odors near the tank or drain field could be signs of a problem needing immediate attention.

Why Regular Maintenance Saves You Time and Money:

Avoiding Costly Repairs: Break down the costs associated with septic repairs versus regular maintenance.
Environmental Benefits: Highlight how a well-maintained septic system reduces the risk of soil and groundwater contamination.
Peace of Mind During the Winter: Mention how winter conditions make septic repairs challenging, making fall the last line of defense.

Conclusion:

Summarize the importance of taking preventive action now and offer a final reminder to contact a professional septic service for any doubts or questions.

For more septic information and service, call Action Septic Tank Service at 770-922-1434 and visit our website, Action Septic Tank Service.