Poss & Son's Pumping

Using a garbage disposal can double the amount of solids added to your septic tank. If you must use one, choose a top of the line model that grinds food into tiny particles that are more easily processed by the system.

As part of your septic tank inspection, the technician will measure the sludge and scum levels in the septic tank to determine whether it needs to be pumped. This is accomplished via specialized tools that are inserted into the inspection port.

Did you know that the roots of some trees grow faster and farther than most trees? If you have a tree like a willow, you may need to keep it more than the standard 100 feet away from your septic system.

It’s recommended that you keep a detailed record concerning your septic system and any and all work that’s been performed on it. This should include all inspections, pumping, repairs, and any other maintenance to the system.

A common myth among septic tanks is that regular maintenance is more expensive then fixing the system once it has failed. In actuality, it is far cheaper to prevent a system failure then it is to correct.

A failed septic tank can be extremely expensive. Not only is there the cost of removing and replacing the damaged tank, but the leach field may need to be relocated. Regularly cleaning is the best preventive maintenance.

Please don't forget that improperly disposing of hazardous chemicals can cause many problems for your septic system. Also, once they reach the drainfield, they can seep into the groundwater for your community.

If you have tried everything to unplug a backed-up toilet and it continues to overflow, then this may mean that it’s time to have your septic tank serviced. When your septic tank is full, this can cause your toilets to back up, as well as discolored water to come up through your drains.

Many over-the-counter products claim to delay the need to have your septic tank serviced. Some may make your system less effective and interfere with desirable natural bacteria, so it’s important to get sound advice and choose the right products.

Trying to decide when to pump out the septic tank can be one of the more frustrating decisions to make. If you pump it out too soon, you are just wasting money; wait too long, and you have a nasty mess on your hands. Pumping should be based primarily on system capacity, frequency of use, and the age of the tank and system.

A flooded soil absorption area is often the first sign of trouble in a septic system. Sludge accumulation allows for wastewater to come to the surface of your yard, which is both foul smelling and toxic. Wastewater can even back up into your home if the tank is not pumped promptly.

An important part of maintaining your septic system involves diverting rainwater away from the drainfield by strategically placing landscaping, roof gutters, and foundation drains. This is very important, as a soggy drainfield will not absorb and thus neutralize liquid waste.

Concrete septic tanks are usually quite reliable and durable. However, shifting soils can cause them to crack, or their covers can come loose. If the cover is loose, call us to repair or replace it immediately before it leads to other problems.