Approximately 30% of residents in Connecticut rely on septic tanks to treat their household wastewater. However, not all owners understand the maintenance required to keep their septic tanks healthy. Homeowners who understand how a septic system works can benefit from safe, clean water for their household; they can also diagnose issues in time to have septic repairs performed before the system experiences more serious problems.

Understanding Septic Systems

How Your Septic Tank Works

Septic tanks are buried underground and connected to your home’s plumbing. Organic waste is deposited inside the structure, where bacteria living inside the container aids in the waste’s natural decomposition. Solids that fall to the bottom create layers of sludge and scum. Filtered wastewater is then directed into a nearby drain field, which consists of piping, a layer of gravel, and soil. Water is filtered through the soil and fertilizes the grass in the area, encouraging a healthy lawn.

Common Reasons for Septic Repairs

Most septic repairs are contributed to improper installation of septic tanks, poor maintenance, and the disposal of forbidden items down household drains. Tanks should be sized to accommodate the households they serve. If the tanks are too small, they can’t keep up with the amount of water used for laundry, bathing, and consumption. The septic tank will fill up before it can process waste, and the waste will flow back into the home. Routine pumping of septic tanks is recommended every three to four years to prevent tanks from becoming too full. Septic repairs may also be needed after items such as sanitary napkins, cigarettes, coffee grounds, and cleaning products are flushed into toilets or dumped into drains. These items unbalance the healthy bacteria inside the tank necessary for processing waste. 

Whether you want to install a septic system or need septic repairs, the specialists at Abrahamson Septic in Preston, CT, can help. Their team has more than 50 years of experience in installing, maintaining, and repairing septic systems. Family owned and operated, the company is fully licensed and insured, and their team can dispose of waste in authorized treatment facilities. Call (860) 889-7939 or visit them online to request an estimate today.