Septic System Components and What They Do

A standard residential septic system includes a septic tank, drainfield, and a network of pipes. Wastewater flows from your home into the septic tank, where solids fall to the bottom, and fat rises to the top. The liquids in the middle travel out into the drainfield, where it is filtered naturally by the surrounding soil. The solids start to build up inside the tank, and if they aren’t removed in time with septic tank pumping in Burlington, then the drainfield will overflow, and you could end up with a total system failure.

Emergency Septic Pumping in Burlington

Septic emergencies sometimes come with some warning signs, but they can be easy to overlook until serious issues erupt. Gurling noises, slow drainlines, rotten egg odors, and wet puddles in the yard are all very clear alarm bells. If your tank is full or your drainfield is saturated, the wastewater will have nowhere to go but back into your house or up through your lawn. Emergency septic pumping in Burlington can solve the issue, but it is more expensive and stressful than simply staying ahead of maintenance. Routine septic service appointments will catch problems early on and protect your property from damage.

How Pumping Frequency Varies by Household Size

Most homes need to schedule a septic tank cleaning in Burlington every 3 to 5 years. However, a retired couple in a two-bedroom house won’t need a septic service as often as a family of five who love long showers and constantly wash loads of laundry. Consider your water usage habits, the number of people in your household, and how often you use the garbage disposal when scheduling your appointments. The size and age of your septic tank should also be factored in. A professional inspection can help you find out the perfect schedule if you’re unsure. Our specialists can take a look at your system and recommend a timeline that makes the most sense.

Eco-Friendly Septic System Practices

Septic cleaning in Burlington helps keep any harmful bacteria or waste out of nearby soil or waterways. Overflows and system backups can affect your yard, but they can also have an impact on local ecosystems. There are daily habits you can adopt to support a healthier system. 

• Use non-toxic products that won’t kill the good bacteria inside the tank. 
• Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste, including “flushable” wipes. 
• Try to space out your water use to avoid overloading your tank. 
• Make sure your rainwater is safely diverted away from your drainfield.

What Is the Difference Between Pumping and Cleaning?

It can be easy to get confused about pumping and cleaning because they’re usually marketed as the same thing. However, that is misleading. Septic pumping will remove the liquid and solid waste from your tank with a vacuum truck, which clears out the sludge and floating scum. However, cleaning services take things a step further by spraying down the inside of the tank and removing any stuck-on buildup. It may also include flushing the lines if it’s needed. This will keep your system operating at full capacity when the service is over. If you only have your tank pumped, there could still be layers of hardened material left behind, which can reduce your system’s effectiveness. Eventually, it can lead to a higher risk of clogs and overflows. Routine septic cleaning in Burlington will keep your system flowing, especially when coupled with inspections and maintenance tasks.

Does Your Septic System Need Professional Maintenance?

Are you looking online for a local septic company you can depend on? Call Septic Blue. Our team is experienced, reliable, honest, and respectful of your time and property. Whether you need a new installation or an emergency septic tank pumping in Burlington, North Carolina, we’re ready to help. Contact our office if you have questions or when you’re ready to schedule your next appointment.