If you have a septic system in Middletown, maintenance is key to avoiding repairs. Unlike people with access to municipal sewage systems, your septic system is your responsibility, which is why it’s important to watch what you put down the toilets and drains and schedule professional maintenance every year. However, problems may still eventually occur that require urgent septic system repair, particularly with your drain field.
The Job of the Drain Field
While many people know their septic system is buried in their yard, they may not know about the purpose of the large drain field. As sewage moves into your tank, the sludge sinks to the bottom while scum rises to the top. Pipes in the center of the tank allow the water to evacuate and filter through along field, providing nutrients to the earth in the process. But, when problems cause this water to drain improperly, you may need urgent repairs.
A Couple of Common Problems
- Broken drain field piping: Sometimes, a shift in the ground may cause the perforated pipes that lead out to the drain field to break. When this happens, water cannot properly distribute into the field. Normally, remaining wastewater filters into the gravel beneath the pipes, while nutrients provide a natural fertilizer for your yard. Broken pipes cannot distribute water evenly, and solids may make their way into your yard. Shifting may occur when tree roots approach the field or because of construction.
- Tank needs pumping: How often your tank should be pumped depends on a number of factors including how many people occupy your home and what kinds of substances you pour down the drains. However, you should call for maintenance once a year, as a technician can best determine whether your tank is overdue. Without regular tank pumping, the sludge at the bottom of the tank may build up, causing sewage to leak into your home or into the drain field. Neither of these are ideal situations for the people in your home or for the environment.
One of the best ways to prevent problems from occurring with the septic system drain field is with yearly maintenance. Whether you need maintenance, tank pumping, or other septic tank services in Middletown, call the plumbers at Larry & Sons, Inc.
