Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Common Septic Tank Problems and Solutions

What Is a Septic System?

A septic system is developed to consist of human biological waste up until it is either naturally broken down by bacterial action or is regularly drawn out from the tank by pumping. It works is by breaking down this waste material into three parts: Gases, Water, and Solids. The gases and water are gotten rid of into the environment of the tank, with the solid waste sinking to the bottom of the tank. This solid waste then needs to be drained routinely and efficiently to prevent common septic system issues.

A primary indication of problem connected to the septic tank is the emanation of foul smell. While there might be a number of triggers for this bad smell, the common measure for all factors is permitting the sewage-disposal tank to manage wastes that it is not truly designed to deal with. This can include kitchen area wastes, extreme amounts of water, laundry and dishwashing outputs as well as plastic and other non-biodegradable items. If you’re in need of sewage cleanup services, contact the professionals at Utah Flood Cleanup today.

Common Septic Tank Issues


Too Much Water in the Tank

Overuse or abuse of water can make the tank hold more water than its capability. This leads to the solid wastes not breaking down and settling prior to the water level in the tank increases. With the increase in water level, solid matter passes through the circulation channels that are constructed only to deal with liquids. This concern can likewise aggravate and contribute to the troubles of septic tank problems when it rains.

This issue can be handled by being more mindful about water use. For example, people can practice taking shorter showers or utilizing low flow showerheads to manage water usage. Also, it is recommended to spread out laundry over a couple of days rather than doing too many loads on the exact same day.

Flushing Non-Biodegradable Products

Plastic and comparable products not only use up area in the tank, but do not break down naturally. This build-up also raises the water level in the tank along with pushing solid matter into the circulation system.

The apparent solution for appropriate septic system treatment is to avoid letting non-biodegradable products from getting in the septic system. Avoid putting cooking fats down the drain while also keeping items like diapers, feminine hygiene products and paper towels out of the system.

Using Too Much Detergent

Overuse of laundry and other powdered cleaning agents presents the possibility of residue accumulation in the pipelines and tank. Plus, the phosphate content in these items promotes algae growth which can obstruct spaces in the distribution pipelines.

Avoid utilizing powdered cleaning agents while also monitoring the quantity of detergent used. Rather, it is advised to use gel or liquid soaps for laundering, as these do not have phosphates discovered in their powdered counterparts.

Usage of Harsh Chemicals

Sewage-disposal tanks typically have to handle chemical items such as pesticides, solvents, brake fluid, paint thinners and motor oil among others. When put in the septic system equation, these products are dispersed into the surrounding soil not only contaminating it, but likewise making it inappropriate for plant life. These products also have the prospective to target bacteria in the tank that is otherwise needed for breaking down the waste matter.

The solution for correct septic tank upkeep once again demands a change in routine by making sure to not put any harmful products like paint thinners and solvents into the septic tank. Since these items will not be removed, they will only be distributed into the soil triggering contamination and environmental hazards.

Septic Filter Clogging

This is a typical issue that takes place when the septic filter is not effectively cleaned up on a regular basis. Tell-tale signs of a blocked filter consist of slow drainage in the structure, high effluent levels in the tank, and the surrounding drain field being abnormally dry.

It is crucial to have the septic tank on your property pumped out on a regular basis to make sure that it works to its optimal potential. Systems that come with a filter require professionals to take a look at it every number of years and tidy it with grade quality biological cleaner instead of using severe chemicals.

Utah Flood Cleanup


For any of sewage-disposal tank issues, contact Utah Flood Cleanup for quick and timely service and upkeep of your septic tank system. Our 24/7 emergency line (801-876-5225) makes sure that we can assist you with problems no matter the time of day.