Most hill country homes have been built with septic tanks and septic systems as opposed to urban sewage systems. The tanks stores wastewater as well as solid and liquid waste. In the tank, these substances decompose until pumping and removal is required. By pumping the septic tank, the system can continue to work efficiently and prevent leakage into the ground surrounding the tank. It is important to understand the process that your home requires to maintain a healthy septic system.
Removing the solids and liquids that have accumulated in the septic tank is an important process of septic pumping. Over time the waste of the tank decomposes into a sludge and scum that sinks to the bottom of the tank. If this collects and isn’t routinely removed, the sludge and scum can potentially fill the tank and overflow as harmful pollutants to the soil and even your groundwater. This can be a very unwanted soggy and smelly mess.
Regular pumping maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety of your environment. On average, most septic systems are pumped every 3-5 years. But, if your system is undersized for your household and generates more usage, we recommend having your septic system pumped more frequently. Putting off your pumping could result in an unpleasant mess, costly repairs, and may require a full replacement of your septic system.
You should trust this service to be carried out by a licensed and experienced professional such as Fergeson and Sons Septic. We have the education and equipment to safely and skillfully pump your tank. With inspection of your system, we can also help analyze and identify any future problems that you may encounter and provide solutions so your system continues to function properly.
How are pumping services completed? –
Your septic technician will locate the system through the access port to your tank -typically a small lid on ground level or on a riser by your tank. If you do not know where your tank is or you do not have a visible lid we provide locating services for a fee.
Do not try to remove the lid yourself as the fumes can become toxic and leaving the port open for prolonged periods of time can be harmful to your septic system. Ferguson and Sons Septic has the appropriate tools to open the lid safely. A large hose will be inserted into your tank to remove the waste into one of our trucks. We transport your waste for proper disposal at a treatment facility.
Once your tank is successfully pumped, we will inspect your tank for any obvious evidence of damage or wear that may need to be addressed. This includes checking inlet and outlet pipes that can easily become clogged with waste. If any issues are discovered, we can communicate with you our recommendations to ensure your tank is repaired or treated for continued optimal functioning. By providing your septic system with routine maintenance you can prolong the lifespan of your system and prevent avoidable repairs.
The tank will be sprayed down for a quick cleaning. Some tanks require a minimum amount of water to be put back into the tank to avoid any alarms. We will take care of this for you.
A healthy septic system is also important for the surrounding environment. Poorly maintained systems can release harmful pollutants into the soil and groundwater at the disservice to our environment and public health. All of these issues can easily be avoided by calling up Ferguson and Sons so we can help you with your septic tank needs.
Helpful Tips for Septic Tank:
- Do spread your washing loads over the week instead of all in one day
- Do use biodegradable cleaning products including non-toxic, non-chlorine, or non-corrosive- typically these will be low sudsing and low in phosphates
- Do use fabric softener sheets instead of liquid fabric softener
- Do learn the general location of the tank- maybe even keep a sketch of it with your records of your service visits
- Do keep the drain field covered with grass to protect your tank from erosion
- Do redirect drainage of other water sources (roof drains, house footing drains, sump pumps) away from the septic tank
- Do call Ferguson and Sons to help you with your septic tank needs!
- Don’t use strong antibacterial soaps, disinfectants or bleaches on a regular basis
- Don’t put grease, fats, household chemicals, pesticides, automotive fluids or other toxins down the drain to enter your septic system
- Do not flush materials that don’t decompose as well such as hair, cigarettes, matches, or feminine hygiene products
- Don’t use flushable wipes as these don’t break down in septic systems.
- Don’t drive or park over your septic tank or drain field- this includes installing any hard surface such as concrete, asphalt or building anything over your system
- Don’t plant any trees or vegetation with aggressive root systems near your septic system
- Don’t avoid regular maintenance on your septic tank system!