5 Things to Expect During a Septic Tank Maintenance

Septic tanks are an essential part of a house or an apartment's sewage system. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning of septic tanks are necessary to keep them functioning effectively. As a homeowner or an apartment owner, you must be aware of what to expect during septic tank maintenance. Read on for more information on what happens during septic tank maintenance.

Digging Up the Septic Tank

Septic tanks are buried underground, and digging is necessary before any maintenance or cleaning. During a septic tank maintenance checkup, the worker digs up the soil around the tank to access it. Sometimes, the technician accesses the tank through a maintenance hole or an inspection port. Be prepared for your lawn or landscaped portions to be affected during maintenance. Additionally, make sure you clearly mark the tank's location so that the technician can easily find and access it during future maintenance.

Pumping Out the Septic Tank

After the tank has been dug up, the next step is to pump out the sludge and any other material that has accumulated in it. You should expect a loud noise from the vacuum truck used to pump the contents out of the septic tank. This process takes a while, depending on the size of the tank, and you should make necessary accommodations and plans, for instance, using water sparingly during maintenance. During the pumping process, the technician assesses the state of the tank and its components and reports any findings to you.

Inspecting the Septic Tank

During a septic tank maintenance checkup, the technician inspects the condition of the septic system components. The technician checks to ensure that there are no leaks or cracks in the tank, baffles, inlet pipes, and outlet pipes. The technician also checks that the effluent pump and disposal field are functioning correctly. Any problems found are highlighted to the homeowner or the apartment owner, and necessary repairs are suggested.

Cleaning the Tank

After the pumping is complete, the septic tank and its components require thorough cleaning. The technician scrapes away any remaining sludge or debris from the walls or surfaces of the tank. The tank is hosed down to remove any residue thrice or more until the walls are clean. The cleaning process usually takes a while, and if you have any activities planned, it is advisable to reschedule them for a later date.

Refilling and Compacting the Soil over the Tank

After the cleaning and inspection processes are complete, the technician refills the hole dug up to access the tank. The technician uses soil and dirt that was dug up during the maintenance to backfill the site. The soil is compacted well to avoid leaving air pockets, which can later cause depressions and deformations. The repaired area can now be returned to its former look with landscaping or another cover-up option.

Septic tank maintenance is essential to preserving the integrity of the system and preventing costly repairs in the future. Understanding the septic tank maintenance processes that happen during maintenance is crucial to ensure that you are prepared for the process during maintenance day. Regular septic tank maintenance and repair, if needed, will also save you money in the long run. So, as a homeowner or an apartment owner, be vigilant about the state of your septic tank and schedule regular maintenance checks. Call a professional septic tank maintenance service today and schedule a septic tank maintenance checkup.

For more information on septic tank maintenance, contact a professional near you.

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