Plumbing issues are unpleasant, create overflows, and damage property. To prevent problems, it’s important to perform septic tank cleaning on an annual schedule. This will stop the sludge in the pipes from building up to unmanageable levels and will allow you to catch hidden troubles like cracked septic tanks and encroaching tree roots. Here are five steps involved in the process so you know what to expect when your septic tank cleaning company arrives. 

How Professionals Clean Septic Tanks

1. Access the Tank

First, the contractors will need to reach the tank. Knowing exactly where your tank is located on your property will save time. Plus, knowing your tank’s location will help you avoid parking cars or heavy machinery on top of it, which could damage the tank. In some cases, your contractor may need to dig up the tank to examine it or make repairs. 

2. Make Necessary Repairs or Replacements

If the contractors find signs of damage to your tank, they’ll need to make the appropriate repairs. Neglecting cracks or warping could result in unpleasant or even dangerous issues, such as sewage seeping into your groundwater. Your contractor may not need to dig up your tank to tell there’s a problem. Unusually verdant grass near your septic tank, for instance, may be a sign of a leak. They’ll also check that your tank isn’t missing any components, such as a plug on a fiberglass tank. 

3. Calculate Sludge Depth

Before pumping, your contractor will measure the thickness of the accumulated sludge to assess the scope of the cleaning. Based on the layer’s thickness, they'll be able to tell if you need to increase the frequency of your pumping services. 

4. Clean the Tank’s Filter

Septic tanks function by letting liquids flow through a system while trapping solid particles until they dissolve. The tank’s filter catches any particles that slip through the rest of the system. Over time, the filter may become clogged. Routine cleaning is important to ensure the filter functions efficiently. 

5. Pump Out the Tank

The final step is to pump out the sludge that’s settled in your tank. Your septic tank cleaning experts may use a muck rake to break up scum before it’s vacuumed out. They’ll then cart the sludge away to a wastewater treatment facility or certified disposal field for final processing. 

If you’re a home or business owner seeking assistance with septic tank cleaning around Kerrville, TX, contact the experts at A1 Septic Cleaning Service. These licensed, bonded, and insured professionals offer quality, affordability, and efficiency on every job. This locally owned and operated outfit will help create a custom schedule and septic treatment plan for your property. Learn more today by visiting them online or calling (830) 928-5846.