Septic Tank is a part of every household nowadays. Maintaining it by cleaning and draining it is very important. One does not remember it all the time or give it equal importance, like maintaining other household things, but it is a significant step, and you should not forget it. Otherwise, the foul smell and clogged drains will cause several problems in everyday life. Whenever you find that your septic tank is full and needs draining, you need to search for the best septic companies near me. They will do the job and make your life easy.
What is a septic tank, and how does it works
A septic tank is an underground tank, probably in the house’s backyard. The sewage and wastewater pipes of the home lead to this tank. There, microorganisms treat and break them down, separating them into three different layers. The bottom layer of the solid is called sludge. The uppermost layer floating of fat, oil, and grease is called scum. The middle layer of liquid in between is called effluent. The effluent is passed on by a T-shaped pipe into the drain field, where it gets treated by filtering through the soil.
Reasons for drain blockage or leakage
When the sludge reaches the T-shaped outlet, that is the best for draining a septic tank. If not, then many things can cause a problem in day-to-day life due to overfilling of the tank. It can potentially slow down or block the drainage pipes of the house or start to overflow in the backyard, leaving a foul odor. Let us talk about some reasons that can block the drains.
• Sludge more than usual
If the sludge is more than one-third of the tank, it will block the pipe. It will cause blockage of the drains. Thus, it is necessary to drain the septic tank from time to time to ensure healthy drains and tanks.
• Gas formation
Sometimes, gas like hydrogen sulfide turns into sulphuric acid and are present inside the tank due to decomposition. This gas can cause the tank to crack and crumble, eventually leading to leakage.
• Rusting
A septic tank is composed of metals like iron or concrete. They can corrode and rust from the different toxic gas inside the tank. It can weaken the tank and leads to cracks and leakage. Also, the concrete can develop cracks due to the pressure inside the tank. It will lead to leakage.
• Big tree roots
The top septic companies near you will always suggest not planting any big trees on the soil bed above the septic tank. The roots of these trees can get into the tank through the lid or any crack and then widen it. It will allow more leakage in the yard, causing a stinky-smelling backyard.
• Flushing non-flushable items
Many people flush and drain many everyday items such as napkins, dental floss, and wipes. These items are non-biodegradable and can thus cause blockage in the drain. Many times, people also use chemical cleaners that are harmful to the microorganism in the tank. These chemicals kill them, causing an imbalance in the tank.
• Age of tank and its maintenance
The age of the septic tank is a vital factor in blockages and leakage. With time, the walls of the tank develop cracks. Old septic tanks do not work efficiently. Also, maintaining them is significant for a long time in a septic tank. Draining them can add years to the age of the septic tank. Failing to drain can cause problems.
These factors can cause blockage and leakage in the septic tank. If you find any major blockage in the drain pipes or overflowing in the yard, call the septic company near you. They can help you with draining, maintaining, and sometimes repairing the tank.
Necessity of draining
The septic companies can help you with regular draining of the septic tank. Draining is a necessary process to maintain the health of sewage pipes and the age of the septic tank. Regular draining will also cut the extra cost of changing tanks more often. Also, there are chances of escaping hydrogen and methane in the house through pipes if there is no proper draining. The foul smell and overflowing in the backyard can be a problem for you and your neighbors. Thus, draining the septic tank once 3 to 5 years is necessary.