As a homeowner it is important to know as much as you can about the property you have purchased and this includes having knowledge about your septic field! It may not be one of the first things to cross your mind but it is crucial that you know where your field is, how old it is, what type of system you have and how it should be maintained. It is also important to understand how to tell if your septic field needs immediate maintenance as this could prevent you from having to pay a large amount of money for repairs.
Where it is?
Every septic installation is different, just like every home is different and every septic installer too. As septic tanks extremely heavy they do require a crane, this means they have to be in an area that’s easily accessible for a large vehicle. Tanks are most likely placed at the low end of the home as water flows downhill, even if this area is not necessarily accessible for large trucks. If your home is similar to your neighbours around you, ask them! Homes that were built around the same time tend to have the tanks all in the same location, so your neighbour may already know where yours might be. As a rule for older homes, tanks are generally 3 to 10 feet away from the house, in the yard near the main bathroom window.
How old it is?
The life expectancy of a septic system will depend on certain things within the tanks environment. This can include things like damage from vehicle traffic, clogging by roots, flooding by groundwater, soil conditions, tank materials and how the septic tank is used. A well-installed, well-maintained septic tanks could easily last for the life of the home. We rely on the world’s leading Japanese manufacturer of the domestic water waste system Fuji clean(link here). They feature compact systems with reliable high performance, proven design, easy maintenance and low operational cost. All of which can help to extend the life of your septic tank.
What type of system it is?
There are three different types of septic systems available type 1, type 2 and type 3. Type 1 is a single septic tank based system that consists of an underground container or tank for receiving and settling wastewater. Type 2 uses air (oxygen) to help break down and treat the wastewater. Finally there is type 3 which is only used on very difficult sites, type 3 systems are defined as any septic system using a type 3 treatment plant and a means of reducing or eliminating pathogens.
Should it be maintained?
A septic system is for the most part maintenance free, a well constructed and maintained tank could last for the life expectancy of the home. However it is still a good idea to check your tank and make sure that everything is in working order every once in a while. Regular maintenance will include visual checks, odour checks, removal and cleaning of effluent filter, clean or replace air filters, testing of sewage pumps and visual inspection of drain field. It is important these tasks are done regularly as it can help to prevent a hefty repair cost.
Contact us today to speak to one of our Septic Professionals!
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