When people hear enough nightmare stories about septic cleanup in Bethel, OH, they have a tendency to overcompensate or jump to conclusions. This often arises from septic tank myths that unfortunately never seem to die but cause problems nonetheless. Believing these myths can make maintaining your tank difficult and even lead to costly repairs. Here are five myths about septic cleanup—and what to believe instead:
- If the tank is full, pump it out: Septic tanks are supposed to be full, because that is how they operate. When it is pumped out entirely, it will normally fill up again in a few days, which makes this seem like a harmless mistake. However, that is not always the case. A functional septic tank contains wastewater and a layer of floating sludge on top. These two elements maintain beneficial bacteria that can be killed when it is pumped out too often. The only time a septic tank must be emptied is when that sludge layer becomes too thick and oxygen no longer aerates as a result. That is why your septic maintenance technician will set a schedule for tank pumping based on your household size and usage requirements.
- Additives and chemicals will make it all work better: Most systems manage just fine on their own, and additives will damage them. Since beneficial bacteria are a big component of functional septic systems, killing it causes frothing, and solids will end up in your drain field. Many of these products are considered toxic hazards, and using them is illegal in some jurisdictions.
- Ignore it and it will work just fine: The converse to using extra products and pumping too often is ignoring your tank, thinking the natural environment will keep it working. While timing the pumping of a septic tank is a detailed process, you also do not want to neglect it. It will fail, and one day, you will want to take a shower and experience a bad surprise. Sewage can also seep through your yard and offer a health hazard. There is no such thing as a no-maintenance septic system, so do not test its longevity through neglect.
- Pumping solves all problems: If a septic system is failing, you will need more assistance than just pumping it. There can be damage, an issue with the drain field or any number of other issues. Drain fields require five to 10 years of complete rest to recover on their own, so when issues arise, call an expert to help you.
- Only liquid needs to be pumped out: A leaking or overfilling septic tank is not always the result of an overabundance of liquid. Solid waste could be clogging it, and if that is the case, removing all water will make the problem worse, not better. Pumping needs to include everything: solid waste, sludge layers and water. If only one of these elements is addressed, you are likely to experience another failure.
Gullet Sanitation Services Inc. offers septic cleanup in Bethel, OH, as well as septic system maintenance. Call us today if your septic system requires professional attention.