Why septic systems fail

Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables. These conditions can cause hydraulic failures and contamination of nearby water sources.

Failure to perform routine maintenance, such as pumping the septic tank generally at least every three to five years, can cause solids in the tank to migrate into the drain field and clog the system.

Whom to contact if you have problems with your septic system

Contact a local septic system service provider, your local health department, or onsite wastewater treatment regulatory agency.

What to do if your home floods

If sewage from your plumbing fixtures or onsite system backs up into your home, avoid contact with the sewage as it may contain harmful pathogens. Contact your local health department or regulatory agency for guidance.

After cleanup is complete, thoroughly wash all equipment, tools, and clothing used during cleaning as well as the flooded area. Disinfect all items or areas exposed with a mixture of 90 percent water and 10 percent household bleach. The area should be dried out thoroughly and not used until it has been completely dry for at least 24 hours.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: EPA.gov

Pipes that are tattered with leakage or clogging will mostly lead to inadequate drainage and preventable damage to the septic system’s area. In other words, faulty pipes can worsen the possibility of damage in the winter season.

Leaks during the cold weather will also increase the chances of freezing, which will further weaken the device. Clogs will end up causing the wastewater to accumulate in the pipes. Frozen drainage can end up causing damage to the septic tank, which can also contaminate drinking water.

How to deal with it?

These problems can be solved by replacing or fixing leaky pipes before the winter arrives. Also, both clogs and leaks should be taken care of as soon as they are spotted in order to avoid escalating these problems into severity.

All in all, dealing with septic system issues during the winter season can be a lot of work and also brings trouble for most of us. It may also interfere with our fun times during this period. The best way to avoid these is by taking precautions and preparations before the cold season comes. Homeowners need to ensure that their septics systems are fault-free and not prone to freezing. By following the recommendations, your septic system will operate efficiently. You won’t have to worry about the inconvenience or dealing with frozen or damaged systems in the winter.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: build-review.com

Did you know that the process of digesting organic waste by anaerobic bacteria tends to maintain the septic tank warm? That is why irregular use of water in a household during cold seasons can affect the septic system.

Using warm water on a daily basis will also help keep pipes from freezing. When septic tanks are not used frequently, they are more prone to freeze. In houses and other unoccupied properties for a long time, the system is unable to sustain a constant temperature due to the low level of water and sewage that flow through the system. This causes damage to the septic system.

How to deal with it?

If you or your family are planning to be away during the winter period, it is suggested that you empty your septic tank. You should schedule a pumping first before traveling to help keep the septic tank parts from freezing and bursting.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.