Septic tanks receive all the waste from a household. They separate solid and floatable substances, such as oil and grease, from wastewater. The solids and floatables remain in the tank and are broken down into sludge by bacteria in warm climates, while the wastewater leaves the tank through perforated pipes into an adjoining drain field. Also known as effluent, this water filters naturally through soil and sand to remove bacteria and avoid contaminating groundwater. If you are new to this type of plumbing system, below are answers to a few frequently asked questions about septic tank maintenance.

Common Concerns About Septic Maintenance

What Does It Involve?

Septic tank maintenance entails pumping the tank out every one to two years here in Interior Alaska based on factors such as the number of household members, and how much water you use every day. Pumping prevents solids from building up and potentially causing tank cracks and leaks. It also avoids toilet and drain backups and drain field contamination issues. Maintenance may also include sewer line cleaning to remove grease guild up and debris stuck in the sewer line preventing good flow.

How Can I Maintain My System?

Stay conscious of how much water you use daily to prevent tank overflow issues and help lower your carbon footprint. Ensure everyone in the household does not flush or pour anything into the toilets and drains that can clog the tank or interfere with the natural bacteria balance. Items to avoid include paper towels, cleaning chemicals, feminine products, cotton balls and swabs, and other such foreign objects.

What Are the Signs That Maintenance Is Necessary?

Schedule the service whenever you notice foul odors emanating from the tank area or the drains and toilets in your home due to excessive sludge levels. Other signs include soggy, overloaded drain fields, overly-lush grass in drain fields and around the tanks due to increased bacteria levels, and toilet and drain backups. If the unit is too full, wastewater and solids come back up through the plumbing system.

Should I Use Tank Additives?

Tank additives claiming to break down solid waste at a faster rate have little to no effect and often disrupt the natural bacteria balance. Rely on a professional septic tank maintenance team to devise a pumping schedule that prevents costly and potentially dangerous problems from contamination.

Bigfoot Pumping & Thawing has been providing residents throughout Interior Alaska, with outstanding septic tank maintenance services for over 25 years. The family-owned company will assist with everything from drain cleaning, pipe thawing and toilet repair to water jetting and septic services to keep your plumbing system in good condition. 24/7 emergency services are also available for your convenience and peace of mind. Call (907) 488-9855 today for an estimate or visit the team online for more information on the topic. Like the company on Facebook for more helpful tips.