A septic tank is an underground tank that receives all the waste from your home. The waste enters the tank and sits in a sludge layer at the bottom, while the oils and grease rise to the top of the liquid wastewater (called effluent). The septic system is designed with natural bacteria that help break down the sludge. This allows the waste to go into the drain field where it is absorbed into the soil. When the septic tank gets too full, it needs to be cleaned or pumped out.
Cleaning a septic tank involves flushing out all the liquids and removing the sludge from the bottom of the tank. A large tanker truck with vacuum equipment is used to remove the waste. Once the septic tank is clean, the lid is removed and the septic system is inspected. This is the time to look for any cracks, leaks and other damage that may need attention.
The cost to clean and pump a septic tank varies depending on the size of the tank, its location, the company providing the service and the extent of cleaning required. On average, the costs range from $200 to $500 or more. However, there are several factors that can lower the price. For example, some septic tank companies offer discounts for multiple tanks or if they are located close together. Also, if the system has an alarm that alerts you when the tank is about to fill up, this can save you money.
Besides the alarm, there are other indicators that your septic tank is about to need cleaning. These include slowed or not flushing toilets, bad odors around the house and sewage in the yard. If the septic system has an excessive amount of waste material, it can overflow and cause expensive damage to your home or the environment.
Regular septic tank cleaning miami and inspections are one of the best ways to protect your investment and ensure a safe and reliable septic system. The more you conserve water and avoid flushing non-dissolvable items into the system, the less frequently you will need to have your septic tank cleaned and pumped.
In addition to saving water, other measures that will decrease the frequency of septic tank cleaning include using high-efficiency toilets and shower heads, not flushing paper towels or sanitary products down the toilet and not putting chemicals down your drains such as detergents, floor cleaners, corrosives, waxes and paints. These chemicals destroy the natural bacteria in the septic system and can clog pipes. By taking these precautionary steps, you can keep your septic system in good working order for many years to come. By following these tips, you will notice faster-moving drains, fewer odors and reduce repair costs on your septic tank system.