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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ's: FAQ

WHAT CAUSES A SEPTIC SYSTEM TO FAIL?

The main cause of septic system failure is neglecting to pump out the tank every 2 to 4 years. If the tank is full of solid waste, the extra scum and sludge will leak into the drain field and plug the sand, gravel, and soil. This would prevent normal filtering of waste water into the drain field, backing up the whole system.

WHAT TYPE OF MATERIAL CAN CAUSE CLOGS?

  • Cooking grease or oil

  • Flushable wipes

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Condoms

  • Dental floss

  • Dryer lint

  • Cigarette butts

  • Coffee grounds

  • Cat litter

  • Paper towels

  • Pharmaceuticals

  • Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint or paint thinners

SHOULD I USE ADDITIVES IN MY SEPTIC SYSTEM?

All of the organisms you need are right there in human waste. Those bacteria will continue to break down solids if you don’t add harmful products or chemicals. Many people are under the impression that if they add something to their system, they won’t need to have their septic tank pumped out. There is no product that can make sludge disappear. The purpose of the septic tank is to separate the solids from the liquids and for the solids to stay in the tank and be pumped out by a vacuum truck.

The best maintenance is having your septic tank pumped regularly and watching what goes down the toilets and sink drains.

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