We can forget that our septic tank needs to be maintained. In this article, we are discussing septic tanks and just how often you need to have them pumped.
Does Your Septic Tank Need to Be Inspected?
Many people don’t think about their septic tanks until there is an issue. However, by the time your septic system shows signs of needing attention, you could be staring at an expensive repair.
How can you avoid being surprised by septic issues? Have your septic tank inspected at least every three to five years or any time you suspect there is a problem. Don’t wait till there are clear issues; reach out to licensed, professional septic inspectors before you start seeing the signs of a failing septic system.
Signs Your Septic System May Have Issues
There are several signs your septic system needs attention, including:
- Slow Drainage: Many times, slow drainage can be attributed to a problem within your home’s plumbing; however, if several drains are struggling to expel water, it could be an issue with your septic system.
- Sludge: You might notice sludge backing up into your home even if your drains seem to be working properly. That sludge is not good. It’s a sure sign your septic tank needs attention.
- Ponding Water: If there is water ponding on your property’s drain field, it is likely indicative of a sewage issue.
- Odors: Your septic system may not alert you to issues visually but will expel a sickening odor instead. Sometimes, you may identify more than one sign.
If your system is showing any of these signs, it needs to be inspected, repaired, and pumped immediately.
What Can Cause Your Septic Tank to Malfunction?
Potential causes of septic tank issues include:
Clogged Drain Line: A sewer line can become clogged with excess debris or due to non-flushable items being flushed. Flushing anything other than toilet tissue can cause your sewer lines to become clogged.
Damaged Sewer Line: Even though your septic tank is tucked safely under the ground, it can be damaged by tree roots, digging, construction, and weather.
Poor Drainage: If your drainage field isn’t draining properly, it could lead to excessive moisture and cause damage to your septic tank.
Excessive Wastewater: Changes to your lifestyle or adding new members to your home could change how often your septic system should be pumped.
When You Know Your Septic Tank May Need to Be Inspected, Pumped, and/or Repaired
If you are seeing even a single sign your septic tank is malfunctioning, it is vital to have it inspected. Otherwise, we recommend having your system inspected and repaired every three to five years. When you are considering selling or purchasing a home, it is a good idea to have your system inspected by a professional septic tank inspector.
Septic tank pumping is one of the most essential preventive maintenance processes you can provide to maintain the health of your septic system. Septic tank pumping removes harmful solids from your system that could potentially reduce the efficiency, or worse, damage your drain field.
Our pumping service includes inspection and cleaning of the outlet filter (if applicable), removal and offsite disposal of septage contents.
Additional fees may apply for the following:
- +$50 per foot of depth to uncover each tank lid
- +$120 - Locating fee for unknown tank location
When issues with your septic system are uncovered, it is vital to take care of them right away. Septic tank problems will not correct themselves. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that even minor issues will become catastrophic.
If you’re in the Asheville area, Viking Environmental and Septic Services is here to help. We provide septic inspection, pumping, and repair services throughout Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood, Madison, and Transylvania counties, and beyond. Contact us today for more information about how to keep your septic system functioning properly.