2 minute read
Common Myths About Your On-Site Septic System
by Expert Contributors TJ Dell’Arciprete and Dave DiGregorio of Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm
There are several common myths about your on-site septic system. By getting a better understanding of your system, you will be able to better maintain the system and detect issues over time.
Myth #1: Pumping your tank is an overall inspection of the system
Most homeowners think that pumping your septic tank will give you an overall view on how your on-site septic system is performing. This is not true. There are many components that make up a septic system and the most important part is the drain field. When you hire a company to come and pump your septic tank, they are not locating the drain field and checking effluent levels. The only way to check the whole system is to perform an inspection before the pumping. Once the inspection is performed, the septic company can better assist you in keeping your system running correctly.
Myth #2: My alarm is going off, so my tank must be full.
If your septic system contains a pump tank, then you will have an alarm in your house to alert you when something is not right. When you hear that alarm sound, some homeowners think it is telling them that it’s time to have your tank pumped. This is incorrect. When your alarm sounds, it can mean a myriad of things. Your pump could have shorted out from a storm; a float could have failed or fallen down into the tank; or the wiring could have been compromised. Whatever the case may be, you need to call your septic provider right away so that the problem can be resolved before sewage goes where it shouldn’t.
Myth #3: I don’t need to pump my septic tank if everything is flowing fine.
Homeowners should generally have their tank pumped every one to three years, depending on the number of occupants. It is important to note that this timeframe should be shorter for those who have a lot of family members living at home. If you don’t pump your septic tank, then the solids and debris will build up and make their way into the drain field of the septic system, which can cause damage. Pumping your septic tank is the best thing you can do to maintain your system and it is much cheaper than a yearly sewer bill.
Myth #4: I have never had a problem, so my system is fine.
Most homeowners don’t find out they have a problem until they put their house on the market and the buyers perform an inspection. Just because you don’t see any issues on the surface doesn’t mean there isn’t one below the surface.
FACT: The best way to keep up with your septic system...
Have it inspected every few years. By avoiding these misconceptions, you can stay prepared and detect issues as they come up.
DELAWARE VALLEY SEPTIC, SEWER & STORM
Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm is a family-run business that has been prioritizing customer service AND providing the most reliable Septic, Sewer & Storm services for over 30 years.
Services include:
Septic, Sewer & Storm Water Installations • Septic & Sewer Inspection • Septic & Storm Pumping • Sewer & Drain Cleaning • Repairs & Maintenance
610-947-4800
504 Eagle Road, Suite B, Springfield
www.4DelVal.com info@4DelVal.com
