Septic systems are very reliable and very efficient at processing residential waste in a very economical and ecological friendly method. Other than monitoring what goes into the system the only maintenance you will be required to perform is the routine pumping, or cleaning, of the septic tank itself. While the tank processes the majority of the waste products, there will always be residual sludge remaining which will gather in the bottom of the tank.
Accessing The Septic Tank
In order to inspect or pump out the septic tank you will need to have access to the tank. If an access port or hatch was not installed when the tank was installed, you will need to dig down to the tank and locate the access hatch atop the tank. If this is the case, it is highly recommended that while you have the tank exposed you install an access of inspection port above ground for future needs.
You will need a long pole, a flashlight, and a tape measure to check the sludge build-up in your tank. Open the access/inspection hatch on the tank and insert the pole. Allow it to descend slowly, keeping your hands firmly on the pole. You should be able to feel when the pole enters the sludge. Take note of this, then continue to push the pole downwards until you strike the bottom of the tank.
Calculating the Sludge Build-up
Take the distance between when the pole first contacted the sludge and when you reached the bottom of the tank. For this example we will say this distance was 31 inches. Determine the overall interior height of your tank by once again using the pole. Whatever that number is, divide it by the first number. Example: If the interior of your tank is 68 inches, and there is 31 inches of sludge buildup in the tank, the sludge occupies 45.5% of the tank’s capacity.
If the tank’s capacity is filled with 30% or more the tank needs to be pumped out. Allowing the sludge to build beyond this level can allow solid waste to enter the field lines. This can cause clogged field lines and result in very costly repairs. Allowing the tank to overfill with sludge can also cause clogs at the inlet and outlet baffles of the septic tank. This can result in sewage back-up into your home.
Estimated Cost of Cleaning
The cost for having your tank pumped out will depend on where you are located. In most areas you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 to have the tank pumped. It is important to allow a licensed contractor perform this work. They will have the proper equipment and expertise to perform the task without damaging your system, home or yard. Just as critical, they will have the proper permits to dispose of the waste materials removed from your tank. If there is no above ground access to your tank the cost for opening and then pumping the tank will be considerably higher.
The average septic tank needs to be pumped out every 3 to 5 years. You can reduce the frequency of pumpings by limiting the amount of water entering your system, not using a garbage disposal and by preventing chemicals such as gasoline, paint, paint thinner and drain opener from entering the septic tank.
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