Proper care and maintenance of your septic system can assure it works well and reduces your costs of service and repairs over the years. With that in mind, here are some FAQ’s and Do’s & Don’ts from the experts on taking care of your septic system.
- How often should I have my septic tank pumped?
It is recommended that you have your system pumped every 3-4 years, however, if you are unsure of the last service date, you can have a company out to check your levels to determine whether pumping is necessary.
- How can I locate my septic tank?
Locate your system by finding the lid(s) for your tank out in your yard. Most of the time they are round, concrete or fiberglass, and are level with your yard. Sometimes the lids are not on risers, therefore are not at surface level. In cases where you cannot find your lid, you can visit the Snohomish County Health District website to obtain an “As-Built” (a drawing of your septic system) that will show where your system is located. http://ww2.snohd.org/shdcontactcore/CMSDisclaimer.aspx
- I am experiencing liquids that are bubbling up, what do I do?
If you see liquid bubbling up around the lid of your tank, if your toilets gurgle when flushed, or if your fixtures are slow to drain, this could be an indication that either the tank is full or the filter inside the tank is clogged. If you experience any of these problems, contact a septic company asap.
- What does an inspection service entail?
You will be provided a detailed Operational Report covering all findings during the inspection.
- Does Snohomish County require septic system inspections or pumping for Real Estate transactions?
No. The Snohomish County Health Department does not currently have requirements regarding inspections. However, King County does and Snohomish County is likely quick to follow. It is recommended that you have an operational inspection performed on your system before you buy any home to make sure the system is in good working order. In addition, it is always best to check with the buyers lender to see if they are requiring these services to be performed.
- Is pumping the septic tank necessary when selling a house?
No. Unless the buyer specifically states in the purchase and sale agreement that this service be performed, pumping is not mandatory.
Septic Systems Do’s and Don’ts
Don’t: Flush dangerous and damaging substances
Do: Use your trash can to dispose of substance that cause system problems like; egg shells, kitty litter, coffee grounds, tea bags, cigarette butts, paper products, sanitary products, diapers, cooking grease, rags and large amount of hair
Don’t: Use special additives that are touted to enhance your systems performance, they can cause major damage to your drain field
Do: Collect grease in a container and dispose of in trash. Avoid using garbage disposals excessively. Food byproducts accelerate the need for pumping and maintenance
Don’t: Dig without knowing the location of your wastewater system
Don’t: Drive over your tank system, unless it is equipped with a special traffic lid
Don’t: Dump your RV waste into your septic tank
Don’t: Ever connect rain gutters or storm drains to your septic system
Don’t: Ever enter your tank! Any work to the tank should be done from the outside and by a professional. Gases within the tank can deplete oxygen levels and be fatal
Do: Keep your tank access lid secure to the riser at all times
Do: Schedule regular monitoring and maintenance service with a professional
Do: Keep a file of your service providers sludge and scum monitoring report and pump-out schedule
Do: Keep an “As Built” system diagram in a safe place for reference
Do: Minimize the use of your garbage disposal
