05/16/2017

The key to septic systems in Central Florida is understanding how they work and how to take care of them.  The septic tank and drain field are one of the biggest investments in a home and if not properly maintained, they can require costly repairs.

All the waste water from the house, from all the sinks, showers, toilets, washing machine, and dishwasher, all end up in the septic tank.

“Septic tanks contain bacteria that grow best in oxygen-poor conditions. Bacteria that require oxygen thrive in the drain field and complete the treatment process begun in the septic tank. If the septic tank is working well, the wastewater which flows out of the tank is relatively clear, although it still has an odor and may carry disease organisms. It should flow only into the drain field,” Florida Health Department.

“Septic tank systems fail when the drain field does not dispose of sewage as rapidly as it is being added to the system. Thus, improvements that reduce the amount of incoming water or improve the quality of wastewater passing through the system will increase the system’s longevity.”

A few other ways to prolong the life of your septic system includes:

Have your septic system inspected by a licensed contractor every one to three years.

Have the septic tank pumped out every 3 to 5 years or when the when the scum and sludge reaches a third of the tanks liquid volume.

Reduce water usage by installing water conservation fixtures.

Be careful not to allow chemicals, household cleaning supplies, grease, paint, pesticides, anti-bacterial products, to go down the drain.

Don’t flush paper, diapers, or any type of garbage down the toilet.

Try and space out the laundry, too much water going into the septic tank can cause problems.

Don’t plant shrubs or trees in or around the drain field.

Don’t drive or park on the septic tank or drain field.

As a leader in the industry, Orlando Septic Services is a full resource for all your septic and waste management needs. We are committed to providing the very best quality and customer service, at an affordable price!