Septic Systems: What You Should Know

How often do you ask a professional plumber in Fort Worth to inspect and maintain your septic system? A septic system is one of the most important components of your home’s plumbing system. In fact, it is your responsibility to regularly get it serviced by a reputed plumber in Fort Worth.

So, how well do you know a septic system? Which type of septic system do you have in your house? A plumber in Fort Worth can easily let you know after a quick inspection. If your residential plumbing system is connected to the municipal water and sewer system, then you probably don’t have a separate system. What does this mean? That you don’t have to worry about getting the system maintained by a plumber in Fort Worth. What if this isn’t the case? Then you should know how your system works so that you can prevent potential septic problems. And if you don’t, you are going to invite huge bills your way.

That being said, let us discuss the different type of septic systems that your house can possibly have. the basic working principle of each of these systems is the same, but they all treat waste in a different manner. A main drainage pipe carries all waste, both liquid and solid away from your home to the septic tank, where they are stored for some time. The solids sink to the bottom of the tank whereas the liquid collects in the form of sludge towards the top. This liquid waste is treated in the drain field, and eventually released. As for the solid waste, you have to get it pumped out of your tank regularly by a plumber in Fort Worth. How often should you do this? Once in a year is enough, but if you do this any less, then your tank may overflow, and lead to several plumbing problems.

What are the different types of septic system?

Septic system can broadly be divided into conventional and alternative types, each of which have their own set of pros and cons. Which of these is the best for you? A plumber in Fort Worth can help you decide; the answer depends on a number of factors such as location, type of soil in the area and absorption rate.

We’ll quickly go through some main types of septic systems here. For further details on each of them, reach out to a plumber in Fort Worth like Benjamin Franklin.

Conventional System

A conventional septic system features a septic tank, drainage field, gravel and a drainage pipe which carries waste from your home. The gravity distribution and pressure distribution septic systems fall under this category.

Generally, systems of these sorts can treat both waste water and solid waste. The latter of these is broken down into the septic tank into a sludge-like form; during the process, oil and grease are separated and float to the top, and form a layer of scum.

Alternative System

An alternative septic system is required if your area doesn’t have soil that can naturally treat waste. A plumber in Fort Worth would also suggest such a septic system if there are already too many traditional septic systems in your area or if your septic system is near a clean water source. Alternative systems are based on advanced treatment processes that are indeed effective, but also require more care and maintenance, compared to traditional systems. These systems may use peat, sand or another suitable substance to treat wastewater, instead of soil, as used in conventional septic systems. Aerator and disinfection devices can also do the job.

Alternative septic systems cannot always treat black water waste, and may only be able to handle graywater waster, but this depends on your chosen type. A professional plumber in Fort Worth can guide you more about it.

Alternative septic systems should be inspected more frequently by a plumber in Fort Worth. Aerobic treatment, drip irrigation and mound septic systems are different kinds of alternative septic systems.

What causes a septic system to fail?

Your septic system fails if it is passed on more wastewater than it can handle. In such a case, the wastewater backs up, incurring health risks. How do you detect this? A foul odor and waste water flowing at the surface are indication signs. Check your basement and see if you spot any puddles of water or muddy soil. Notice your sink and toilet; if they back up when you wash clothes or flush, you probably have a problem. Check the area over your drain field, and look out for bright strips of green grass. But generally, these signs become evident only when the damage has been done. In any case, call a plumber in Fort Worth right away, and get your septic system inspected.

Your septic system can fail if you use too much water, because this means that it has to handle more waste water than its capacity. If you don’t get your system inspected and pumped regularly by a plumber in Fort Worth, then also it can fail. Unsuitable soils, drain fields which are used parking lots and tree roots are other causes of failure.

Household Toxics

Where do you clean paint rollers? If you do this in the utility sink, your septic system will likely fail. Oil-based paints, solvents and other toxic chemicals should not enter your drainage and septic systems. So, before washing all these rollers and brushes in the sink, remove all excess paints.

Household Cleaners

Generally, the bacteria that treats waste in the septic system recovers quickly if cleaning products enter the system in small amounts and their toxicity levels are low. If any of these products are labeled as Poison or Danger, then they are hazardous. The label Warning is used on moderately hazardous products whereas Caution is used for the slightly hazardous substances. Non-toxic products are labeled as Non-Toxic or Septic Safe. Avoid discharging all hazardous and moderately hazardous substances in your septic system.

Reach out to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Fort Worth, and take their advice on preventing potential problems with your septic system.