Recognize the Signs of Septic Tank Damage

After purchasing a home with a septic tank, it's important to understand how to take care of it. A septic tank needs to be emptied out periodically. It's important to understand how the process works so you can better take care of your home.

The Fats and Grease on the Top Layer

A septic tank is designed to be filled with all sorts of fluids and solids. The top layer of your septic tank consists of fats and greases. If this layer solidifies, this will be a problem for your septic tank because it will eventually compress the water underneath and will make its way to your pipes. 

The Liquid Middle Layer

Underneath the scum layer is a layer that consists of liquid and the septic tank is designed to send the liquid to the leach field. This is referred to as the "effluent." The effluent needs to drain from the tank. If there is a problem with the drainage, you might notice water ponding around the septic tank. This is a sign that you need to contact septic services as soon as you can.

The Solids on the Bottom

The septic tank also consists of all the solids that have accumulated in your septic tank over the years. These need to be pumped out so that your septic tank can drain properly. As the solids build up inside the tank, they prevent it from operating efficiently. The solids also build up on the sides of your tank and cause it to become weaker as time passes. Eventually, the solids make their way into areas of your tank that are only meant to handle liquids.

Factors That Affect How Often Your Septic Tank Should Be Pumped

The septic tank needs to be pumped out every couple of years. This is based on how much waste your family produces and whether you frequently have large parties. You will not only need to account for family members but also guests.

There are various things that you are not supposed to flush down the drain if you have a septic tank. For example, you'll need to use toilet paper that is septic-tank-friendly. Antibiotics can also be bad for your septic tank because your septic tank relies on bacteria to break down waste. It's also very important to avoid flushing down the drain floss, cotton swabs, and disposable wipes. 

Even if you take good care of your septic tank, you'll still need to pump the septic tank every once in a while because this is a part of the normal operation of your tank.

Reach out to a local septic service to learn more.