Septic system maintenance is critical to any establishment using it. A commercial septic is designed to handle a much larger amount of wastewater compared to a residential septic system; hence, maintenance will be much more important. Poor septic maintenance can result in a variety of time-consuming, costly problems that include clogged drains, hazardous conditions to the environment, and costly repairs.
In this blog, Rooter-Man Plumbing explains why commercial septic maintenance matters and provides a checklist for businesses to execute the best maintenance practices.
The Risks of Poor Septic Maintenance
By neglecting your commercial septic maintenance, you invite numerous risks:
Perhaps the most efficient way to maintain your septic system would be to schedule periodic inspections with a professional hydro-jetter.
Clogged drains and backups: Poor septic system maintenance blocks your plumbing, making it back up. This means a loss of disruption to your business activities, unsanitary conditions, and even potential damage to your company’s reputation.
Environmental damage: An overflowing septic system poses contamination risks to groundwater and soil, thus threatening public health and the environment.
Costly repairs: Not performing maintenance on the septic will allow major repairs to the drains to be greater and restoration of the drainfield or septic tank replacement more costly.
Septic System Maintenance Checklist for Business
Proper septic system maintenance will be able to prevent problems to begin with. The following are some of the necessary steps regarding how to perform appropriate maintenance of the septic system
1. Pump the Septic Tank Every 2 to 3 Years
On-site septic pumping is the backbone of maintaining your system. A commercial septic tank should be pumped every 2 to 3 years on average. However, frequency will vary depending on the size of the tank, operation of the business, and volume of wastewater generated. Consult a professional septic company for a pumping routine customized to your needs.
2. Water Conservation
It reduces the strain on your septic system. Providing water-saving appliances, finding and repairing leaks, and facilitating activities with water savings in mind will ensure less wastewater flows through the system, extending its life.
3. Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Be conscious of what goes into your septic system through the flush or drain. Grease, coffee grounds, chemicals, and other non-biodegradable materials should not enter your septic system. All these can block your pipes and alter bacterial activities in the tank that decompose waste, resulting in more frequent maintenance for the system.
4. Keep Trees Away From Septic Lines
The roots of trees are among the most common culprits in causing septic system damage. Trees not at a reasonable distance from your system may cause root invasion to the tank and pipes, thus creating blockages to cause rupture or bursting of the pipes. To avoid such instances, it is recommended to plant your trees at least 30 feet away from the tank and drain field.
5. Regular Inspection of the Septic System
Regular observation will be helpful to spot the potential problems before they cause much damage. Keep an eye on leakage, cracks, and the gathering of water around the tank and drainfield. This will save you from much more extensive repairs that may also be costly.
6. An Effluent Filter
An effluent filter prevents the entry of solids into the drainfield hence reducing chances of clogging and increasing its life. Besides, it helps in improving the qualities of wastewater discharged from the system to reduce the chances of environmental pollution.
7. Mark and Maintain the Leach Field
Set boundaries around the leach field to prevent accidental damage. Keep all vehicles, equipment, and foot traffic off the leach field since these may compact the soil. Also, avoid drainage problems around your leach field by routing rainwater runoff away from the area and maintaining adequate vegetation cover.
8. Watch for Warning Signs
These would include slow drains, gurgling sounds in pipes, foul odours near the tank or drainfield, and suspiciously green patches of grass. These can signal that something is not quite right, and the system may need attention in the form of pumping, repairs, or further investigation by a professional septic company.
Why Hire a Professional Septic Company
Grading done by a professional septic company ensures that the best care is given to your system. Professionals have the skills, equipment, and experience to locate problems quickly and efficiently. Septic maintenance and repairs can be hazardous, and professionals understand how to manage these risks with safety. They can provide advice regarding long-term maintenance routines, and you will get tips concerning your business specifically.
Rely on Rooter Man Plumbing for Your Septic Maintenance
Rooter-Man Plumbing will handle all your business needs for septic services, from the installation of septic tanks to cleaning and maintenance thereof. Do you want to invest in the longevity of your system? You can be assured that our expertise will prevent costly repairs besides facilitating environmentally responsible maintenance. Contact us today for all your septic service needs.