Your septic system requires more maintenance than many people realize. Septic tank pumping is a dirty job, but one that one in every five households has to contend with. Pumping your septic tank does not only get rid of the sewage waste in your home, but it also ensures that you don’t have any septic problems. To keep things running smoothly and avoid costly repairs later, it’s important to give your septic system an occasional check-up and pump out when necessary. Here are 5 signs that you may need a septic tank pumping:
1. THERE’S A FUNNY SMELL IN YOUR YARD
You want to go outside for some fresh air, but instead, you catch wind of something that doesn’t smell quite right. We all know that putrid sewage smell; it’s hard to miss it, especially if it’s coming from your backyard.
A foul smell in your yard likely means that your septic tank is full and can’t hold any more waste. Luckily, taking care of the stink is simple; just make a call to your local septic service for a septic pumping.
2. STANDING WATER
If you notice water pools in various places around your yard, it’s almost a sure sign that you need to pump your septic tank. These water pools are mostly found around the septic tank or near the drain field, which indicates that your septic tank is full to the brim and needs immediate pumping.
Don’t hesitate to take action, as sewage can back up into your household if the problem is not cleared up promptly. Sewage backup poses a serious health hazard to the house’s occupants since it contains several pathogens that could lead to potentially life-threatening conditions, so the best course of action is to take care of the problem as soon as you can.
3. SLOW FLOWING DRAINS
Slow drainage often means that your septic system is stressed and requires immediate pumping. If your toilets are taking longer than normal to flush, or your sinks take longer to drain with no apparent obstruction, it’s a sign that your septic system is overwhelmed.
Along with pumping your septic tank, we advise that you also arrange for a septic tank inspection and regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape. Doing this will prevent the problem from escalating into something much worse.
4. SEWAGE BACKUP
Nothing says it’s time to pump your septic tank more than raw sewage backing up into your home. This happens when your drains get clogged, and sewage is no longer able to drain freely. Sewage backing up into your home not only stinks, but can also lead to various water-borne diseases; it should be dealt with right away.
If you notice even the slightest hint of sewage backup in your home, contact septic tank pumping services as soon as you can. It’s best to avoid using the entire system until the pros get to the root of the problem.
5. PATCHES OF DARK GREEN GRASS/VEGETATION
If you notice that your yard is starting to look patchy, with spots of grass that are darker than the rest, it could mean that your septic system has a spill. Because sewage acts as a fertilizer, thick, dark patches of grass often indicate a leak in your sewage system.
Even if you don’t notice actual pools of sewage in your yard, remember to be wary of these darker patches, as they can be much easier to overlook. To prevent the problem from worsening, arrange for a septic pumping as soon as you can.
SEPTIC TANK MAINTENANCE TIPS
Septic systems require more care and attention than many people realize, which is why we’re here to help you stay informed. Apart from regularly pumping your septic tank, here are a few other septic system maintenance tips to keep in mind:
Use the Right Cleaning Chemicals
Try using plant-based and organic cleaning products for your sinks and toilets instead of bleach, which can harm the helpful bacteria in your sewer system. Steer clear from toilet bowl cleaners and products that contain quaternary ammonia, such as antibacterial soaps and the like.
Keep an Eye on Your Drain Field
Keeping an eye on what goes on in your septic system starts with protecting your drain field. Avoid parking your car over the drain field, and keep an eye on your gutters and sump pump, which drains water away from the drain field.
Watch What You Flush Down the Toilet
As tempting as it is to simply “flush your worries away,” you probably already know that, unfortunately, your toilet isn’t a trash can. Not just anything can go down the drain, otherwise you might end up clogging or even damaging your septic system. Fecal matter and toilet paper are the only things meant to be flushed away. Diapers, tampons, tissue, and other such articles belong in the trash.
Spread Your Dishwashing and Laundry Days
Many of us have a designated day of the week for doing all our laundry and dishes, which seems logical, but can actually put excessive stress on our septic systems. Your septic tank needs adequate time to treat the wastewater before it can be ready for another run. While it may not be as convenient, spreading out your washing over the week will help to take the strain off of your septic system and reduce your overall water usage.
ARRANGE FOR A SEPTIC TANK PUMPING TODAY
If after reading this article, you find yourself in need of a professional and expedient septic pumping, and are in Centralia or the Greater Olympia area, look no further.
Whether you need septic services, grease trap services, or a porta potty rental, we’re the ones for the job. With our, “When you need us, we won’t let you down,” approach, accompanied by our forty years of experience, we have the expertise and knowledge necessary to ensure a job well done. The solution to all your septic and portable sanitation needs lies with us; don’t hesitate to contact us today.
