If you have a septic tank installed on your property, you have an excellent system in place for waste processing and management. However, this system only works with regular inspection, maintenance, and cleaning. Scheduled inspections each year and septic service every two to three years will give your septic company an opportunity to identify any problems like leaks and backed up pipes, as well as remove accumulated waste from your system.

How Septic Systems Work

Your septic system has two main components: the tank and the drain field. Any wastewater from your home enters the tank first, where a system of baffles divides solid waste, liquid, and fats. The liquid continues through the system to the drain field, where it is released from pipes spread through the area. There, the wastewater is naturally filtered by the soil to re-enter the environment harmlessly. Meanwhile, solids and fat accumulate over time in the septic tank. During a septic service visit, solid waste will be removed from the tank and taken off-site for processing.

Why Inspections & Septic Service Are Needed

If waste continues to accumulate for too long, it can overflow into the drain field, clogging the pipes and soil. It can also back up into the home, which causes plumbing problems and spills. Meanwhile, any clogs, corrosion, or leaks may lead to sewage spills in your home or yard. In particular, drain fields are at risk from plant roots, which can grow into the pipes, breaking and clogging them.

To prevent breakage and overflow, you should have a professional inspect your septic tank regularly. They will look for signs of leakage, such as smells and abnormal plant growth, and also check for drain field compaction, which prevents wastewater from draining correctly. Finally, they will monitor the level of waste in your septic tank and let you know when it’s time to schedule septic service. Ultimately, regular inspections extend the life of the septic system by catching problems early and keeping all your equipment in good shape.

If your septic system is overdue for inspection or cleaning, call American Rooter Sewer & Septic Service in Albany, OR. This licensed, family-owned septic service offers 24/7 emergency repairs in addition to routine maintenance and septic tank installation for your home or business. To schedule a visit, call (541) 926-1185 or visit them online.