How Regular Septic Tank Inspections Benefit You
Homeowners have a lot to juggle when it comes to maintaining their property. If your home has a septic system, caring for and maintaining it is essential to ensure proper and efficient waste management.
In this article, our Bynum Septic team will discuss how scheduling regular septic tank inspections benefits your septic system, your wallet, and even the environment. Plus, we’ll tell you what to expect during an inspection and signs that indicate it’s time to schedule a tank inspection!
Benefits of septic tank inspections include:
- Cost savings by addressing issues quickly
- Early detection of leaks, damage, or blockages
- Avoiding contamination of nearby water sources
- Reduced risk of needing significant septic system repair
- Extended lifespan with preventative septic tank maintenance
- Ensures your septic system operates efficiently and safely
- Maintaining property value with a properly cared-for system
- Remain in compliance with local regulations and health codes
What to Expect During a Septic Tank Inspection
Now that you know why septic inspections are important, we can share what you can expect during a professional septic tank inspection. Most inspections include the following ten steps, where the inspector will:
- Locate and access the septic tank using the existing manholes or inspection ports.
- Inspect the septic tank walls, lids, or baffles*, looking for signs of deterioration or damage, including cracks, leaks, or corrosion.
*Baffles help prevent clogs and protect the drain field by regulating the flow of wastewater and solids. Inlet and Outlet baffles are located near the entrance and exit of the septic tank.
- Measure the amount of sludge and scum inside the tank, noting if the tank is ready for septic tank pumping.
- Check the inlet and outlet pipes to ensure proper sealing and connection so that wastewater can’t escape. The inspector will also check for signs of damage or blockage.
- Evaluate the septic tank’s capacity compared to the household wastewater usage to determine if the tank is large enough or if an upgrade is in order.
- Conduct a water flow or dye test to ensure that wastewater flows properly into the tank and that effluent* is discharged into the drain field.
*Effluent is partially treated wastewater that exits the septic tank and enters the drain field for further treatment.
- Inspect the drain field for signs of drainage issues indicated by oversaturation, lush vegetation, or foul odors.
- Test the water quality by collecting nearby groundwater samples and septic tank effluent, looking for signs of bacteria or harmful pollutants.
- Recommend necessary repairs, maintenance, or possible upgrades based on the current condition of your septic system.
- Provide detailed documentation of the septic tank inspection, including observations, test results, and measurements taken.
Signs It’s Time to Schedule a Septic Tank Inspection
How often you’ll need to have your septic system inspected depends on several factors, including:
- The age and condition of the septic tank
- How much wastewater is produced
- How many people live in the home
- Local regulations
You’ll know it’s time to have your tank inspected if you notice:
- Foul odors around the septic tank or in your home
- Slowly draining sinks, showers, or toilets
- Gurgling sounds coming from toilets or drains
- Soggy areas in your yard near the drain field or tank
- Fast-growing, lush grass or vegetation above the drain field
- Significant increases in household water usage
- Sewage backup into drains or toilets. If this happens, call us for emergency septic service near Lawrenceville and Lilburn, GA! Our team offers same-day septic service when you need immediate assistance.
We recommend having your septic system inspected every 3-5 years. If you have a larger family or use extra water, every 1-3 years is your best bet. If in doubt, contact your local septic company to set up an initial inspection and go from there.
Ready to Have Your Septic Tank Inspected? We Can Help!
Know that when you call your local septic company, like Bynum Septic, our #1 priority is helping you! Don’t be afraid to ask us questions about how your septic system works. Our experienced technicians are always ready to discuss your specific concerns and help you better understand how to care for your septic system.
Contact us near Lawrenceville, GA, Lilburn, GA, and other nearby service areas to schedule septic services near you.
