Over one-third of Hawaii residents rely on individual wastewater treatment systems like septic tanks. If you are one of these homeowners, knowing how to properly maintain your tank and drain field is essential to ensuring the system lasts and does not become a threat to the surrounding groundwater. Regular septic inspections will help provide all necessary maintenance as the guide below will explain. 

Why You Should Schedule Septic Inspections

When wastewater leaves your home, it enters the septic tank to be pre-treated, which involves separating the solid sludge and scum layers from the effluent—the remaining water—before it moves on to the drain field for further treatment. Although naturally occurring bacteria in the tank help to break down this waste, they often can’t work fast enough to keep up with how much is coming in, which results in buildup that must be pumped regularly.

Septic inspections should be performed annually to determine if your tank requires pumping. The septic tank contractor will also examine the parts, including the baffles, drain lines, and riser lids, to ensure they are in working order. 

How to Determine If Septic Tank Pumping Is Needed

In most households, the tank should be pumped every three to five years. The timing can vary based on several factors, including the size of the household, septic tank size, and average wastewater generated. During your septic inspection, the contractor will check if the scum layer is within six inches of the outlet or if the sludge layer is within 12 inches. If either is true, the tank will be pumped. Putting off this maintenance task could result in waste either backing up into your home or overflowing into the drain field. 

Protect your septic system and the surrounding environment by scheduling septic inspections with First Quality Environmental annually. Their licensed team specializes in residential and industrial wastewater treatment systems and has served Oahu and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands since 1991. Call them today at (808) 259-0100 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their wastewater services.