Get ready for storm season by taking care of your septic tank. Your septic tank is responsible for removing wastewater from your home, so it’s essential to ensure it’s functioning correctly to avoid any potential problems.
The frequency of pumping your septic tank may depend on several factors, such as the size of the tank, the number of people living in your household, and the volume of wastewater produced. Septic tanks located in an area that frequently experiences heavy rainfall, like Florida summers, might require more frequent pumping than other areas. However, it is necessary to keep the tank clean wherever you live. So pumping your septic tank regularly and inspecting it often should help avoid any future costly problems.
Certified Plumbing of Brevard is here to help restore your septic system any time of the year. We always offer round-the-clock services to keep your plumbing system in working order.
Get to Know Your Septic System
A septic system is comprised of a septic tank and a drain field. When wastewater (from sinks, toilets, and showers) leaves the property, it enters the septic tank, where solids are separated from liquids. Solids settle to the bottom and are broken down by bacteria, while liquids (effluent) exit the tank and enter the drain field, where the soil further treats them.
The size of a septic tank is typically determined by the number of bedrooms in a home. As a general rule of thumb, a three-bedroom home requires a 1,000-gallon septic tank. Homeowners or business owners should have their septic system inspected by a professional, like Certified Plumbing of Brevard, every three years to ensure it functions properly. Neglecting septic tank maintenance can result in costly repairs or even the need for a complete system replacement; more on this later.
Septic vs. Sewer
A sewer system is a centralized network of pipes that takes wastewater from homes and businesses to a wastewater treatment plant. There, it is treated and discharged back into local waterways. Sewer systems are typically more expensive to operate and maintain than septic systems, which is why they are not always feasible for rural or suburban areas. Certified Plumbing of Brevard can service your sewer line! We offer repair, installation, and maintenance services.
Take Care of Your Septic Tank
Maintain a healthy septic system by being mindful of what you put down the drain. Avoid flushing non-degradable items like wipes, diapers, or feminine hygiene products down the toilet. This is a rule of thumb for any plumbing system.
Also, grease, oil, and fat should be disposed of properly and not poured down the drain. Additionally, excessive water usage can strain your septic system, so try to be mindful of your water usage habits.
Issues with Your Septic Tank?
If you suspect your septic system is not functioning correctly, there are a few warning signs to look out for. These include slow-draining sinks or toilets, odors from your plumbing system, or standing water in your yard. These are common warning signs if your sewer line is also acting up. If you notice these signs, regardless of your plumbing system, contact Certified Plumbing of Brevard immediately.
Florida’s Climate Impacts Septic Systems
Florida’s warm and humid climate can accelerate the breakdown of organic matter within your septic tank, leading to a more frequent buildup of sludge and scum. Frequent rainstorms can also saturate the soil, reducing its ability to absorb and treat wastewater effectively. As a result, it’s crucial to be proactive in maintaining your septic system.
Importance of Regular Septic Tank Maintenance
The function of a septic tank is to remove sewage from your home’s wastewater and treat it before returning it to your soil. As wastewater flows into the septic tank, solids settle to the bottom, and liquids flow out of the tank and into the drainage system through a series of pipes.
As solids build up at the bottom of the tank, they can cause a blockage and prevent wastewater from flowing through the pipes. Therefore, it’s essential to pump your septic tank periodically to remove accumulated solids and keep your septic system in working order.
Regular septic tank pumping is essential to prevent system overflows, backups, and costly repairs. Pumping frequency varies depending on factors such as tank size, household size, water usage, and weather conditions. In Florida, it’s generally recommended to have your septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years, but areas with heavy rainfall or frequent storms may require more frequent pumping. For instance, during hurricane season, you might need to take extra precautions, especially if it has been a while since your septic tank has been pumped.
Potential Issues If Neglected
Neglecting septic tank maintenance can lead to a host of problems. Over time, excess sludge and scum can accumulate, clogging pipes and causing backups in your home or yard. Inadequately treated wastewater can contaminate groundwater and nearby bodies of water and harm local ecosystems. Additionally, neglected septic systems can lead to foul odors, soggy lawns, and expensive repairs that could have been prevented through routine maintenance.
Overflows, backed-up drains, and foul odors are some visible issues you may encounter. It could lead to severe health problems and harm the residents’ surroundings. Harmful bacteria will not be able to break down the waste correctly, allowing it to leak into your lawn or a nearby field.
These issues are presented in other plumbing concerns — such as a faulty sewer line. Call Certified Plumbing of Brevard immediately to prevent any plumbing disaster.
When to Pump
Taking the necessary steps to pump your septic tank is critical in ensuring the longevity of your septic system. The first factor to consider would be when to pump your septic tank. It is essential to maintain a regular schedule to prevent the tank from filling up. Although infrequent use of the system can sometimes lead to more extended periods between pumping, many homeowners often delay the pumping process—schedule maintenance with a professional to confirm the consistency of the tank’s emptying.
Steps to Take to Pump Your Septic Tank
Septic pumping typically involves removing the accumulated solids from your septic tank. Here are some steps to take when pumping your septic tank:
Locate Your Septic Tank:
Determine the location of your septic tank and its access points.
Hire a Professional:
Enlist the services of a certified plumbing company, such as Certified Plumbing of Brevard, to inspect and pump your septic tank.
Inspection:
The plumbing professionals will assess the condition of your tank, measure sludge and scum levels, and determine if pumping is necessary.
Pumping:
The experts will pump out the accumulated sludge and scum from your septic tank using specialized equipment if needed.
Proper Disposal:
The removed waste is then transported to an approved facility for proper disposal.
Routine Maintenance:
Schedule regular inspections and pumping as the professionals recommend to ensure ongoing septic system health.
How Certified Plumbing of Brevard Can Help
By choosing Certified Plumbing of Brevard, you’re investing in the longevity of your septic system. With our expertise, you can rest assured that your septic system will operate at its best, even in the face of Florida’s challenging weather patterns.
Our highly skilled plumbing professionals are always ready to handle all your septic system needs. We have the tools, experience, and expertise to inspect, repair, or pump your septic tank to keep it functioning efficiently.
Certified Plumbing of Brevard recommends having your septic tank inspected every three years and pumped every three to five years. Our licensed plumbers are the experts in plumbing septic tanks in Central Florida. We are ready to assist you in maintaining your septic system. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services and can quickly diagnose and repair any issues you may have with your septic system.
Certified Plumbing of Brevard for Your Septic Needs
Maintaining your septic tank is essential to ensure your plumbing system works well and prevents damage to your property. Factors such as the weather, storms, and daily usage affect how often you should pump your septic tank. A professional plumber must inspect your septic system periodically and ensure that your septic tank has regular pumping services. Contact Certified Plumbing of Brevard today to learn more about our septic tank pumping services can prevent a plumbing disaster.
Certified Plumbing of Brevard has been trusted in this county for over 33 years. It is our privilege to be your trusted plumbing service in Brevard County. Looking for other plumbing services? We offer various maintenance, installation, and repair services in residential, commercial, and hospital properties. Call us at 321-676-0812 to schedule your plumbing service.
