The average homeowner sees their septic systems as a mystery. All they know is that it is the place where household waste goes. The myths surrounding the septic system can cloud someone’s judgement when it comes to taking care of one. This is why we wanted to clear the air and separate the Septic Tank Facts and Myths.
Maintenance Facts vs. Myths
Myth: Septic tanks don’t need routine maintenance.
Fact: This is probably one of the biggest misinformed excuses we get from clients with major septic system problems. The truth is, you need to have your septic tank pumped every 2-3 years depending on the size of the home and amount of occupants. Keeping the septic tank regularly maintained keeps your system running smoothly for a longer lifespan. Plus, you won’t need to dish out thousands of dollars in a failed system.
Myth: Only septic tanks should get inspections.
Fact: The majority of the waste clearing process happens in the drainfield. If your tank is fine, but the drainfield isn’t working properly, you could still be paying out thousands of dollars in a new drainfield sooner rather than later. It is equally important to get your drainfield inspected.
Myth: “I’ll start worrying about my septic tank when I start seeing a problem.”
Fact: This is probably one of the worst decisions you could make as a homeowner. You need to be scheduling regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs and replacements for a failed septic system. “Out of sight, out of mind” could literally cost you thousands. When it comes to septic tanks, prevention through routine maintenance is key.
Bacteria Facts vs. Myths
Myth: You don’t need bacteria additives.
Fact: Bacteria in the septic tank are necessary to naturally break down waste. However, with so many antibacterial cleaners entering the system, it is beneficial to replenish a healthy volume of bacteria with a bacteria additive. At Lapin Services, we want our clients to use the best products when it comes to their septic tanks which is why we recommend BioOne Septic Treatment. It is an all-natural, potent bacteria additive that can clear clogs and keep your septic tank in a healthy state.
Myth: The septic tank doesn’t need pumping if bacteria additives are used.
Fact: Bacteria additives help support the process of a functioning septic tank. However, they do not replace the need to pump the septic tank regularly. There are other materials in your septic tank in the form of scum that re not broken down and can only be removed by a pump-out.
Flushing Facts vs. Myths
Myth: Anything can be flushed without harming the septic tank.
Fact: Not everything you flush is safe for the waste-eating process going on in your septic tank. Also, hazardous waste and chemicals can threaten the environment as well as disrupt the natural process that’s taking place in your septic tank. Plus, certain things you flush may cause clogs, backups, and even erode drain pipes causing leaks. Take a look at our Septic Do’s and Don’ts to see what should be staying out of your septic system.
Myth: Household chemicals are safe for your septic tank.
Fact: Chemicals can kill the necessary bacteria that your septic tank uses to break down waste. By killing the bacteria, you destroy the process. Try refraining from flushing excessive amounts of chemicals at once. Also, we recommend using a bacterial septic treatment product to help replenish healthy bacteria.
Septic Pumping, Repair & Replacement Facts vs. Myths
Myth: Septic tank pumping gets rid of all septic system problems.
Fact: While we would hope that this was true, it isn’t. The purpose of a pump-out is to help prevent future problems as well as to help identify any issues such as clogged or broken pipes. The downside is that a pump-out will not fix all problems such as a drainfield failure.
Myth: Garbage disposals don’t harm septic tanks.
Fact: Garbage disposals can actually cause serious problems for your septic tank by increasing the amount of solid waste entering the system. Food takes longer to break down so the amount of waste sitting in your tank could clog or overload the tank.
Myth: Septic systems last a lifetime.
Fact: The average lifespan for a septic system is 20-30 years as long as it is maintained properly. On the downside, your septic system can last much less than that due to poor treatment. The key here is to learn as much as you can to properly take care of your septic system and schedule routine maintenance, and you will reap the benefit of a long-lasting system.
For your Plumbing, Septic Tank, Drainfield or Commercial needs
Please call Lapin Services.
Lapin Services, LLC
3031 40th Street, Orlando, FL 32839
(407) 841-8200
