Basic Guide for Septic Systems: The Do's and Don'ts of Doo-Doo Management.

If you are an acreage owner, understanding your septic system is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment. Septic systems are an integral part of your rural properties. They are responsible for treating and disposing of household wastewater.

Here's a quick rundown of how septic systems work and what you need to know to keep yours in top condition. If you're eating while reading this, you may want to pause snacking for a moment:

1. How Septic Systems Work: Septic systems consist of a septic tank, and in most cases, a drain field or soil-based treatment area. Wastewater from your home flows into the septic tank, where solids (known as "sludge") settle at the bottom and scum floats to the top. To paint a similar picture for you, imagine a fun, three-layered shot you may enjoy at a local watering hole. An almost identical layered separation occurs in a septic tank... except not nearly as fun... and definitely not a beverage! Bacteria in the tank then break down the solids further. This process is called "primary treatment." The liquid in the middle layer of wastewater is called "effluent." This remaining liquid is then delivered into the drain field by gravity or septic tank effluent pump, where it is further treated by filtration through the soil.

2. Maintenance: As the homeowner, it's best to avoid flushing items like wipes, grease, non-organics, or chemicals that can clog the system. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your septic system functioning properly. This includes having a vacuum truck pump your tank every 2-3 years, depending on usage, tank size, and occupancy. This interval is determined using a fancy "anticipated sludge and scum accumulation rate" formula. Having a technician provide annual service is another great way to monitor accumulation levels. They will also check mechanicals, clean effluent filters and provide some TLC to your septic system.

ProFlow Tip: Any unique suggestions from friends and family directly adding raw hamburger, yeast, dead chickens, chopped cabbage, etc. into the septic tank should be avoided...

3. Signs of Trouble: Watch out for signs of a failing septic system components, such as slow drains, sewage backups, high level alarms or pooling water on the drain field. If you notice any of these signs or ever in doubt, contact a septic professional immediately.

4. ProFlow Septic Services: If you're in need of septic services in Parkland County, Sturgeon County, Strathcona County, or the surrounding Edmonton area, ProFlow Septic is here to help. We offer affordable septic services, including septic inspections, annual maintenance, custom septic repairs, and installations. Our team of installers is committed to ensuring your septic system operates efficiently and effectively.

For all your septic system needs, trust ProFlow Septic. Your septic system superheroes! Contact us today to schedule a service, troubleshoot or complete an assessment.