Summer is just around the corner here in Western North Carolina, and with that comes time off, outdoor adventure, and the infamous honey-do list. If you are a homeowner and are not connected to a sewer, that your home is tied to a septic system. 

Septic systems are very efficient ways to remove wastewater from your home, however, they do have a few maintenance items that should be on your radar. Of course, there are the big ones, such as inspections, and septic tank pumping. One of the often overlooked pieces of the septic system is the septic filter. 

What Is Your Septic Filter?

Your septic system is fairly complex and made up of two main parts. The septic tank is the part that separates scum and sludge from wastewater so that the water may move into the leach field. The leach field is where the remaining liquid “leaches” out of the septic system back into the ground, where it either moves into the groundwater or evaporates into the air.

Your septic filter, also known as an effluent filter or an outlet filter, is a component that is installed in the outlet pipe of your septic tank. Its primary function is to prevent solid particles and debris from exiting the tank and entering the drain field.

Drain filters are often found installed in the outlet baffle or a tee of the septic tank. They are positioned in such a way that all effluent leaving the tank must pass through it before entering the drain field. The filter is designed with pores that allow liquid to pass through it while capturing solid particles, such as suspended solids, grease, hair, and other debris.

Your septic filter is designed to ensure that only treated wastewater is flowing out of the tank. This reduces the risk of clogs and contamination into the drain field, protecting your groundwater and the rest of the environment. 

When To Clean Your Septic Filter

Over time, your septic tank filter will need to be cleaned, and in some cases replaced. As solid build up on your filter material it can cause blockages. If the effluent filter gets stopped up to the point of a blockage you will begin to experience the signs of a back up in your home. 

To ensure that your septic filter is working properly, we recommend having your filter cleaned at least annually to prevent backup. If you have a larger household we recommend a more frequent filter cleaning.

How A Septic Filter Is Cleaned

Septic system filter cleaning is one of the more simple septic system services. While some homeowners may go with the DIY method, working with a septic service company will give you the peace of mind that it is done right the first time, and who wants to be digging around in your septic system looking for a filter? 

When a septic service company cleans your filter, they typically begin by removing the lid and finding the filter. Once they locate the filter, they remove it and spray it with a hose. Additionally, they will scrub off any debris while rinsing to ensure that it is as clean as it was when it was first installed.

After it is cleaned, it’s time to inspect it to ensure that there is no damage to the filter. 

Have Your Septic Filter Professionally Cleaned With Viking Septic Services

If you feel like it has been a while since your septic system’s filter has been cleaned or replaced, then it is probably time to reach out to a professional septic service company. At Viking Septic Services, we understand the importance of keeping your system in tip-top shape. 

Our septic system experts will clean and inspect your septic filter and keep your home septic system running efficiently.

Contact Viking Septic Services

In addition to septic filter cleaning, we offer a variety of services to keep your home from experiencing issues with your septic system. These services include:

• Hydro Jet Line Cleaning
• Septic Tank Pumping
• Inspections
• Repairs
• Installation
• Maintenance 
• Septic System Locating
• Sewer Scope Camera Inspection.

Remember, proper maintenance protects your property and makes your environment safer. Don't wait until it is too late; contact Viking Septic Services today for a consultation or to schedule routine maintenance. Let us take care of your septic system so you can be confident that your home’s wastewater treatment is in expert hands.