What to Know About a Septic Inspection Process
Septic system owners must ensure that septic systems are inspected on a regular basis because a septic inspection is essential for the health of all family members living in the house. However, most people don't think about these systems until something goes wrong because they are installed below the surface. Here are some reasons, brought to you by Septic Blue, as to why a septic inspection is so important.
A Quick Overview of the Septic System
A distribution box, a leach field, and a septic tank make up the majority of septic systems. Septic tanks separate floatable substances like oil, grease, and solids from wastewater and aid in the digestion of organic matter. A septic system that is working appropriately will release the fluid from the septic tank to a distribution box to punctured pipes that are covered in a drain field. The pipes are intended to slowly discharge the waste into the ground.
Time for Inspection
At the time of inspection, inspectors will check three aspects of the septic system: the septic tank, distribution box, and drain field. The first step the inspector will take is to locate the septic system. Once they have determined where the septic system is set, they can proceed to perform the inspection.
They will start by performing a visual overall inspection of the drain field, keeping an eye out for any odors or standing water floating around. Next, they may check the toilets and sinks for water pressure, flushing the toilet and letting the sink run thoroughly.
The next step is to look for any leaks. You can’t actually see any leaks unless you perform septic tank pumping. After the tank is pumped, they will observe the tank for any leaks, along with any signs of chipping or tearing on the tank.
After that, we remove the cover to check for water levels. If the wastewater passes the specific level, it is overfull and needs septic tank pumping. Septic tanks should never be left unattended to overload, as this can lead to potential problems. Additionally, we also check the distribution box to ensure there are no damaged outlets that interrupt the flow and cause uneven distribution.
When Should I Have my Septic System Inspected?
Whenever you notice a problem, such as strange odors around your toilet drains, sluggish or weak flushing toilets, slow sink drains, or the appearance of wet spots or lush plant growth on the surface of your drain field. You need to make sure that your septic system is in good working order before remodeling or adding on to your home. However, construction work above your drain field or septic tank must be avoided.
How to Prepare for an Inspection
If a septic company is visiting your home for a septic system inspection, there are a couple helpful things you can do to quicken the process.
- Have Designs Ready: Every homeowner must have some designs in mind for their septic tank. It will make the inspection go more smoothly and simplify the process for you. The plans will help the inspector learn about your septic system and where it is.
- Easy Access: The septic tank cover may be underground in some instances, necessitating the assistance of an expert to open it. However, removing the cover on your own would cut down on half the work. If you ask a septic company to remove the tank, they will charge you extra.
- And lastly, the best benefit you can bring to the table is noticing the problem before it gets too messy. As a septic homeowner, always be on the lookout for sketchy signs of septic failure.
