(Septic tank with lift pump diagram and entire system)
(Click to enlarge images)
(Click to enlarge images)
FASQ:
(Frequently Asked Septic Questions)
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
This depends on the amount of use the system receives. Typically a tank should be pumped every 2-3 years for a family of four, non seasonal.
The septic alarm is on; what does this mean?
The alarm signals that the tank is too full, most likely because the pump isn’t doing its job. This is a serious condition, as effluent will back up into the home. Stop adding water in to the system until the problem is fixed. Common causes are the float switch is not functioning or the pump is no longer working. Deep winter frost can also freeze a drain field or the line from the tank to the field. First check circuit breakers and the electrical connections on the septic tank power post.
Should water usage be spread out during the day?
Yes. Do this. Systems are designed to absorb only so much effluent at a time. Spacing out you laundry, showers, dishwasher, etc. will increase the life of a septic system.
This depends on the amount of use the system receives. Typically a tank should be pumped every 2-3 years for a family of four, non seasonal.
The septic alarm is on; what does this mean?
The alarm signals that the tank is too full, most likely because the pump isn’t doing its job. This is a serious condition, as effluent will back up into the home. Stop adding water in to the system until the problem is fixed. Common causes are the float switch is not functioning or the pump is no longer working. Deep winter frost can also freeze a drain field or the line from the tank to the field. First check circuit breakers and the electrical connections on the septic tank power post.
Should water usage be spread out during the day?
Yes. Do this. Systems are designed to absorb only so much effluent at a time. Spacing out you laundry, showers, dishwasher, etc. will increase the life of a septic system.
Are septic system additives good?
No. The products commonly advertised on TV are actually harmful to the system. These products break down the solids in the system into fine particles that will cause damage to the field.
Is it OK to drive over the septic tank or drain field?
Don’t. To avoid damage, we recommend you don’t drive over the tank, pump line, or drain field with anything heavier than a lawn mower.
The tank looks full; is it?
It may look full but is likely at its normal operating level. The purpose of the tank is to settle out solids while allowing effluent to flow through a baffle to the drain field or lift pump.
What type of laundry detergent should be used?
Liquid detergents are recommended because powder soap builds up faster in the tank. Liquid detergent makes cleaning the tank easier.
No. The products commonly advertised on TV are actually harmful to the system. These products break down the solids in the system into fine particles that will cause damage to the field.
Is it OK to drive over the septic tank or drain field?
Don’t. To avoid damage, we recommend you don’t drive over the tank, pump line, or drain field with anything heavier than a lawn mower.
The tank looks full; is it?
It may look full but is likely at its normal operating level. The purpose of the tank is to settle out solids while allowing effluent to flow through a baffle to the drain field or lift pump.
What type of laundry detergent should be used?
Liquid detergents are recommended because powder soap builds up faster in the tank. Liquid detergent makes cleaning the tank easier.