Frequently Asked Questions About Septic Services
At Bio-Bob's Septic Service of Kitchener, Ontario, we are always here to answer your questions about septic tank pumping, cleaning, and more. Let's answer some frequently asked questions right now.
Ongoing maintenance of your septic system will keep it at its optimal level. It will prevent problems such as slow draining sinks and toilets and septic backup into your home. Regular maintenance will also prevent serious problems that could potentially result in the costly repair or replacement of the weeping field. By pumping out your septic tank every two years, the level of sludge is kept low. If allowed to build up, the sludge will enter the weeping field, plug the pipes, and prevent liquid from being absorbed. This can be a costly, time-consuming, and invasive problem. Pumping your septic tank regularly is good preventative maintenance and can save you money in the long run.
Usually, once every two or three years, but depending on your tank size and water usage in your home, it may be more or less frequent.
Make sure the sludge is pumped out of your tank every two or three years. Harsh chemicals like paint solvents, thinners, and nail polish removers should never be poured down the drain. Bleach, sink and toilet cleaners, and drain openers are also harmful to the organisms in your tank that help breakdown bacteria. Diapers, feminine products, cigarette butts, condoms, and cotton swabs can cause blockages and should not be allowed into your system.
Generally, a septic tank is a minimum of 5 to 15 feet from home, directly lined out from your sewage outlet pipe in the basement exiting the building. Tanks vary from 12 inches to 60 inches below the ground in most circumstances. About 95 percent of septic tanks have two cleanout access ports at either end, approximately 6 feet to 8 feet apart. Empty the primary and secondary chambers at each pumping to enable thorough cleaning and inspection of your system.
We strongly recommend that the septic system be pumped out and inspected. Septic problems can cost several thousands of dollars to repair. Be informed before you buy.
There are several signs of a failing septic system. These include:
Sluggish or gurgling drains and pipes
Plumbing backups
Sewage odour
Mushy ground or greener grass near the septic system