At York Septic, We have offered quick and dependable septic upkeep for the Western Connecticut region. All things considered, we suggest a septic tank be siphoned each a few years. The recurrence relies upon the number of people in a home and the degree of utilization.
Operation and Maintenance
- The contents of the septic tank should be pumped every two to three years or when the total depth of sludge and scum exceeds one-third of the liquid depth of the tank. If the tank is not cleaned periodically, the solids are carried into the absorption field; rapid clogging occurs; premature failure follows; and finally, the absorption field must be replaced. Pumping your septic tank is less expensive than replacing your absorption field.
- Detergents, kitchen wastes, laundry wastes and household chemicals in normal amounts do not affect the proper operation of household sewage treatment systems. However, excessive quantities can be harmful.
- Avoid the disposal of cigarette butts, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, plastics, trash, etc., into your household sewage system. These items are not readily decomposed.
- Connecting your laundry wastes to a separate waste system (dry well or seepage pit), while not normally necessary, will reduce the load on the regular system and permit the survival of a marginal system.
- All roof, cellar and footing drainage, and surface water must be excluded from the system. This drainage water can be discharged to the ground surface without treatment; make sure it drains away from your sewage treatment system.
- Roof downspouts should not drain toward the absorption field.
- Backwash from water softeners and/or iron/manganese removal equipment may be discharged to the septic tank and absorption system or to a separate system.
- Roots from trees in the immediate area of the absorption lines may clog the system.
- Keep swimming pools (above or in-ground) away from the absorption field.
Caution:
- Avoid entering your septic tank.
- Individuals have died from gas asphyxiation.
- Never permit heavy equipment to pass over the absorption field.
- Conserve your water usage; this can prolong the life of your sewage treatment system. Check defective toilet tank valves, repair leaky fixtures, install appliances and fixtures that use less water and avoid wasteful practices.
- Your sewage treatment system is normally designed to accommodate two persons per bedroom. If your household is larger than this, or if you add additional bedrooms, enlarge the system.
- If surface water from higher ground is flowing onto your absorption field, install a ditch or berm to intercept this surface water.
Septic Maintenance Tips:
- Pump your septic tank regularly based on the recommended frequency.
- Have the baffles inspected at time of your septic pumping.
- Repair any dripping or leaking plumbing fixtures within the home to prevent flooding the septic system.
- Divert roof drains and any surface water drainage away from septic system.
- Do not allow vehicles or heavy equipment to drive over or park on your septic system.
- Do not allow backwash from any water treatment systems to enter the septic system.
Unsafe Items for a Septic System:
Grease | Disposable Wipes | Disposable Diapers | Baby Wipes |
Cat Litter | Plastics | Sanitary Products | Paper Towels |
Facial Tissues | Food Scraps | Coffee Grounds | Gasoline |
Oils | Paints | Paint Thinner | Pesticides |
Photography Solutions | Pharmaceuticals | Antifreeze | Petroleum Producs |
Signs of a Septic System Back Up
- Slow draining sinks, toilets, showers, bathtubs, etc.
- Gurgling sounds in the plumbing
- Sewage backups in the house
- Sewage odors in the yard
- Ground wet or mushy underfoot
If you see any signs of backup call York Septic at (203) 744-6669.
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