Septic systems require some routine maintenance in order to function properly. Regular septic tank inspections will allow a professional to find developing problems before they result in septic tank failure. An inspection will also reveal whether the tank needs to be pumped. As the septic tank becomes overloaded with waste, failure to pump the tank can result in waste runoff or damage to the system. Worst-case scenarios involve replacement of small or large pieces of the septic system—in fact, completely ignoring the septic tank could result in needing to replace it entirely.
Talk to a local professional about routine inspections and septic tank maintenance in Modesto, CA. After scheduling a septic system inspection, you may wonder what inspecting the system actually entails. Here is what to expect from a routine septic tank inspection:
- Thorough inspection: The septic tank is inspected for signs of decay or damage. This will also include the piping that runs between the house and the tank. Technicians will also inspect the drain field. The septic expert is generally looking for signs that there is damage to any of these components that may result in the system not working properly. Everything from flushing the wrong objects into the septic system to tree branches damaging lines can cause the system to have serious problems, and a careful inspection will help identify them.
- Inspection of tank level: Part of an inspection includes determining what level the tank is filled to. There is a chance the technician will suggest a tank pumping, which is part of regular septic tank maintenance. If you need a tank pumping much earlier than expected, the technician can help determine why the tank might be filling prematurely. Once emptied, the bottom and internal condition of the septic tank is easier to inspect.
- Chemical evaluation: Whether the tank is drained or not, an inspection will find out what is going on inside of it. There is a delicate chemical balance that occurs inside of a septic tank that keeps it functioning properly. Most important is proper bacteria levels that adequately breaks down some of the content inside of the tank. Septic experts can determine whether the chemical reactions inside of the tank are taking place the way they should be.
- Drain field inspection: Technicians will also conduct an absorption test on the drain field to determine if the lines are functioning properly. This is also a good time to check the soil and quality of the drain field to prevent pooling or other problems from developing. Soil compaction is the most common problem with drain fields. If the technician suspects a problem is developing, they can provide recommendations on how to prevent it from getting worse.
Septic tank inspections should be part of your regular home maintenance schedule. Talk to a qualified expert about getting on a routine schedule for septic tank inspections and maintenance. By taking care of your septic system, you can guarantee that you will not encounter major problems with your plumbing system, and that you will not need to shell out the money to replace expensive equipment. Call Alvarado Pumping Septic Service to learn more about septic tank maintenance in Modesto, CA.