Septic Tank

In remote areas such as cottage country, where connection to a main municipal sewage line is not possible, septic tanks are the solution. Often, cottages or vacation homes are forced to install their own sewage systems in the form of a septic tank, which functions as a small scale sewage treatment system. All pipes in the home – from sinks, to showers and toilets, lead to one singular pipe with removes the waste-water from the home and onto the septic tank.

The tank holds onto the waste-water so the solids can sink to the bottom (sludge), grease and oils to the top (scum). This leaves relatively clean water, called effluent, in the centre, which is moved onto the next step of treatment.

A septic tank is usually divided into two sections, each with their own unique role. The first responsible for removing oil, grease, and solids to keep the system from clogging up, and keep the ground water safe. The second, a fail-safe, catches anything the first part lets through. This keeps the rest of the sanitation system running smoothly. The two sections of your septic tank work together to eliminate most solids from the waste water, before it makes its way to the drain field, where bacteria break down the harmful agents before the waste-water is re-introduced into the groundwater.

When installing a septic tank, working with a professional is well advised, since it’s a big job and does involve the obtaining of permits. Working with one of our plumbing professionals will allow you file the necessary paperwork quickly and effectively, so that work on your septic tank installation can be started immediately.

The installation process can be a rather big ordeal, but it doesn’t have to take very much time. A hole will have to be dug to accommodate the tank, and must be placed at the right level by a professional after careful consideration and calculation. The tank is stabilized, and the septic tank is ready to be incorporated into your larger sewage maintenance system. The installation of a septic tank is typically followed by the construction of drain fields, which are a very delicate matter, having to do with incorporating bacteria cultures and using the right type of soil. This should be dealt with by one of our friendly and knowledgeable staff, who will work with you to get the job done properly.

There are several additives on the market that claim to help break down the sludge and scum in the septic tank, but opinion on effectiveness of these products is varied. There is also some research that shows introducing these products into your system may indeed harm the surrounding ecosystem. Regular maintenance and pumping by trained technicians is your best method for keeping your septic tank clean.

Maintenance and inspection are a very integral part to keeping your septic tank running smoothly. An annual septic tank check by a trained professional is advised. A trained plumbing technician from Drain Rescue will come to your home, and check the septic tank and system for condition and proper function. Problems that may be occurring with your septic tank which can be uncovered by a professional include unacceptable scum and sludge levels, a clog in the system, or leaks.

A common problem with septic tanks is an issue with collapsed, cracked, or otherwise damaged outlet pipes. Excavation is also necessary in this case, and the assistance of a plumbing contractor is advised. Outlet pipes can be damaged by shifting earth, or plant roots which have either impacted or otherwise damaged the pipe.

The process of identifying the problem with your septic tank can be aided by video guided inspection, which will let a professional remotely determine what, and where, the problem is, and how it can be best addressed and fixed so that your system can return to normal, regular function.

Due to standard wear-down the result of regular use, or irreversible damage, your septic tank may eventually need replacing. Replacement may also be necessary if you desire a bigger tank, or if technology has advanced to a point that you would like an upgrade. A skilled and licensed plumbing technician can help you decide if replacement or repair is the correct choice, and also recommend some great new models for your needs.

Your Septic Tank Is Too Full

Checking whether precipitation from rain has made your septic tank too full, check whether the ground is leaking or during wet weather you only notice this. Reviewing the way water drains into the tank during dry times is important, use a pail of water to see if your drains are diverting water. Look at the ground and drains nearby to see whether water is leaking into the system, if so take steps to stop this from happening.

Failed contracted areas that are causing your Septic Tank to constantly overfill will need correction. The most common problem is percolation, this often the case if a Septic Tank is overflowing and not draining water. Either the tank is too small, or is poorly treated so there is constant water which allows solid materials to block the flow into the Septic Tank.

Septic Tank Solution

Replace parts like the tees and or the size of the Septic tank, as well as the percolation area. The construction of the percolation area is the most important aspect of good Septic Tank maintenance and working correctly. Use best practices and hire an expert that will construct the percolation area properly for maximum efficiency.