Essential Maintenance for Your Septic System
Choo Choo Rooter, a trusted local Chattanooga plumbing company, provides safe and reliable septic system maintenance services to ensure long-term functionality. Even a well-designed and properly installed septic system can fail without proper care, leading to expensive replacements and potential health hazards due to property contamination. Understanding how a septic tank and system work is essential for maintaining optimal performance. We provide septic tank cleaning services to keep your system running smoothly for years to come.
The Role of Bacteria
When wastewater enters the septic tank, bacteria actively break down the waste, leaving behind water that percolates into the ground. The system relies on these bacteria to perform effectively, and they reside in the septic tank and the drain field.
Sludge Formation
The waste that flows into the septic tank is called effluent, forming a sludge layer at the tank's bottom as bacteria break down organic materials. This sludge comprises the bacteria's byproducts and inorganic solids, while a layer of scum, consisting of grease, fats, and oils, floats to the top, essentially creating a settling pond within the tank.
Tank Filters
A filter in every septic tank prevents most solids from reaching the outlet pipe leading to the drain field, a large surface area where bacteria feed on the effluent and treated water seeps into the ground. Perforated pipes distribute the treated water for drainage, while gravel around the pipes facilitates oxygen flow to the bacteria. The waste decomposes with the bacteria's assistance, and the cleansed water re-enters the groundwater system.
Signs of Problems and Failures
Impact of Household Chemicals
Bacteria play a vital role in the septic system, facilitating the breakdown of waste. Excessive use of harsh household chemicals can disrupt this balance by killing off these essential organisms and hindering waste decomposition. Items like coffee grounds, diapers, and cigarette butts can also harm the system by impeding the breakdown process.
Managing Wastewater Volume
Overuse of garbage disposals and the presence of synthetic lint fibers in washing machines can further exacerbate issues. Large volumes of wastewater sent over a short period can overwhelm the tank, causing it to flush out too quickly. Excessive sludge accumulation can interfere with bacterial activity and clog the drain field.
Precautionary Measures
Root intrusion from landscape trees and bushes is another common problem, potentially causing sewer clogs and system damage. Regular septic tank pumping, typically recommended annually, helps remove accumulated scum and sludge. Our specialists offer inspections and pumping services to ensure optimal system function. Effluent filters can also be installed to prevent drain pipe clogs, though caution with waste disposal remains crucial to system health.
Beyond Pumping
Our technicians understand septic systems beyond mere pumping. They conduct thorough inspections to assess system health, water usage, bacterial balance, and tank adequacy.
Water-Saving Upgrades
Ask about our hydro-jetting services for clogged drain pipes to remove obstructions and potentially avoid costly drain field installations. We also offer washing machine drain filter installations to prevent lint interference with tank bacteria and water-saving upgrades like low-flow shower heads and toilet replacements.
Priority Assistance
Specializing in tree root intrusion removal, septic tank pumping, and repairs, we prioritize competitive pricing and offer priority scheduling for prompt assistance. If you're experiencing system issues, our experts can diagnose and address them efficiently to minimize property damage.
24/7 Septic Tank Services
If you've noticed septic tank issues, contact us to avoid potential sewer disasters. With 24/7 availability and no overtime charges, our routine inspections and pumping services ensure long-term system efficiency and reliability. Reach out today to learn more about our septic tank solutions.