All of the waste and wastewater from your home drains into a large septic tank that is buried underground on your property. The solids fall to the bottom of the tank and become sludge, the liquid moves through to the drain field, and the rest is broken down by naturally-present bacteria. 

Septic systems remove waste from your home, separating the solids from household wastewater and sewage. They treat water that flows out of toilets, showers, sinks, dishwashers and washing machines before it returns to the groundwater supply. The septic system is typically buried underground, with the tank being constructed of concrete or plastic. Contact Septic Service Fresno for professional help.

The septic tank resembles a large, rectangular or cylindrical container with an outlet pipe and vent that sits at the top. During the septic tank process, wastewater enters through the drain opening and undergoes a settling period. Weighty masses of sludge and sediment sink to the bottom of the tank while bacteria eat away at them. Lighter masses, such as grease, oils and lipids rise to the top of the wastewater to form a scum film.

This allows the water in the septic tank to flow more freely to the absorption field, where soil microbes treat it further before returning it to the groundwater supply. The septic tank must be regularly inspected and pumped to prevent overflows, leaks or other problems.

It is important to keep your septic system properly maintained to reduce the need for costly repairs and replacements. A septic tank should be pumped and inspected every two to three years. A professional septic technician can measure the tank layers to determine when it is time for a pump-out, and can inspect the drainfield, as well. It is also important to keep a record of all inspections, pump-outs and maintenance activities.

If you notice brighter grass or a pool of water in one spot on your property, it is a sign that your septic system is having trouble. Pooling water is a sign that the septic tank is overflowing and the soil in the absorption field is being over-fertilized by effluent.

Keeping your septic system and drainfield properly maintained will help to protect it from damage and prolong its lifespan. Do not place heavy items on or above your septic tank and drainfield, such as lawn ornaments, gazebos, cars or trucks. Avoid planting trees or vegetable gardens over the septic system, as they may encroach on and contaminate the drainfield. Instead, plant native grasses that grow tall enough to hide the septic tank lid.

Health

Septic systems dispose, filter, and treat wastewater for homeowners that are not connected to a municipal sewer system. When neglected, these systems can overflow resulting in costly repairs and groundwater contamination. Pumping and cleaning the septic tank helps prevent overflows and prolongs system life. Regular septic service is the best way to prevent health, safety and environmental problems caused by improper waste disposal.

Wastewater flows from the house into the septic system where it is separated into three distinct layers: a scum layer of fats, oil and grease less dense than water; an effluent (clean) water layer; and a sludge layer that is heavier than water. Naturally occurring bacteria in the septic tank digest these solids before they enter the drainfield. After leaving the septic tank, wastewater seeps through a series of perforated pipes into the soil in the drainfield. The soil filters the untreated wastewater through rocks, dirt and sand naturally before it seeps into underground aquifers.

A failing septic system can cause disease-causing bacteria to enter the home posing a serious health risk to the residents. It can also contaminate groundwater and taint drinking water.

Signs of a failing septic system can include slow-draining tubs, toilets and sinks; foul odors; and surface flooding in the yard. If these signs are ignored, sewage can back up into the home and clog the drain field. Septic tank overflow can also flood the drainfield, runoff into nearby water bodies and contaminate groundwater.

The most obvious indicator of septic system problems is when the septic tank fills up with septage. This is a clear indication that it’s time for septic tank pumping. Having your septic tank pumped will prevent sludge and scum from overflowing into the house, clogging the drain field or leaching into groundwater. It will also extend the life of your septic tank, saving you money in costly repairs and replacement. To help your septic system last longer, reduce the amount of waste it must process by installing water-conserving devices in faucets and showerheads; repair leaking faucets and toilets; and limit the use of chemical solvents, household cleaners and waste-disposal products.

Safety

When it comes to septic tanks and their related components, safety is a critical concern. People are injured every year by falling through crumbling septic tank or cesspool covers and being overcome by methane gas that can build up in poorly ventilated tanks. This dangerous gas is produced as waste decomposes in the tank and can even explode. The soil above septic tanks can also become unstable over time, creating the potential for collapse.

Septic systems should be inspected regularly, and anyone who needs to enter or work on them should be aware of the risks. For this reason, it is important to have a buddy system when working near septic tanks and cesspools. This way, if you or your companion notice a strong odor or a leak, it can be quickly reported and you have another person nearby to assist in evacuating everyone from the area.

Another safety precaution you can take involves making sure there is ample space for the septic crew to perform their work. This means clearing out toys and other objects, relocating furnishings, and removing any items that may block the entrance to the tank or its cover. This will not only prevent accidents, but it will allow the septic team to complete their work faster.

In addition, it is helpful to know where your septic system components are located on your property. Having a map or record drawings can help you avoid damaging your system when doing home or yard work. Finally, avoiding driving heavy vehicles or building structures over your drainfield can prevent soil compaction and minimize the risk of clogs and failures.

Lastly, it is important to practice responsible water usage and teach family members the proper ways to use your septic system. This includes not flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper, as well as reducing the amount of water used in the house.

It is also a good idea to walk your property regularly to check for problems like wet spots, surfacing sewage, and odours. By catching these issues early, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your family healthy.

Property Value

The presence of an onsite septic system can significantly affect the value of property in the real estate market. However, the impact depends on various factors, including location, quality of installation, regulatory compliance, and maintenance. Nevertheless, septic systems remain an integral part of residential properties in rural areas where municipal sewer services are not available. In such cases, a well-functioning septic system can help mitigate the risk of wastewater contamination, which can be both costly and dangerous.

In addition, septic systems are often less expensive than municipal sewer costs. However, the system must be regularly serviced and inspected to ensure proper functionality. Having an unmaintained septic system can lead to extensive and costly repairs, which could significantly lower property value. A good septic tank servicing company can help homeowners maintain the value of their septic systems and ensure that they are ready for sale when the time comes.

Septic inspections are vital for facilitating successful real estate transactions. They are not only essential for ensuring that the septic system is in working condition, but also provide valuable information to potential buyers. This information can include legal agreements, cost-sharing arrangements, and maintenance records. This transparency can reassure buyers and facilitate a smooth sales process.

For example, a detailed septic system inspection report can provide prospective buyers with a clear assessment of the septic system’s condition and highlight any issues that may be of concern. It can also serve as an excellent tool for negotiating the price of the property.

Moreover, a thorough septic tank service can identify any problems before they become serious. This can save the homeowner money in the long run and prevent the need for costly replacements or repairs. It is a good idea to hire a professional to conduct a thorough septic inspection before selling a property.

Overall, the benefits of septic tank services far outweigh the negative impacts. With regular septic pumping, cleaning, and inspections, a home owner can enjoy increased property value and peace of mind. By highlighting the advantages of a functioning septic system, such as cost-savings and environmental benefits, homeowners can make a positive impression on potential buyers and increase their chances of successfully selling a property.