Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I have my tank pumped?

A: It depends on occupancy and usage. Every system works differently. We will recommend a schedule that’s right for your system.

Q: Was my tank full?

A: We get this one a lot. When you open the cover to your tank, the liquid level should be 6-8″ below the cover. That’s usually where the pipe that carries effluent to the soil absorption system (SAS) is positioned in the tank. The picture below shows you how the flow of wastewater occurs in a septic tank.

Q: Is there anything I can put in my tank to help prolong the life of my septic system?

A: Yes. We recommend using ccls, a liquid bacteria additive that promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in a septic tank. Give us a call and we’ll bring a gallon of it to you. One gallon will last for a year.

Q: So where do you bring this stuff?

A: Another one we get asked all the time. We bring it to a municipal sewerage treatment facility, where they process it and turn it into clean water. Yes, really!

Q: Is it ok if I do all my laundry in one day?

A: We don’t recommend it. Ideally, you should spread it out. Say you have to do 3 loads of laundry. Do one in the morning, one mid day and one at night. This gives the septic tank time to allow for proper separation of solids and liquid.

Q: Can I use a garbage disposal?

A: Not a good idea. Food waste offsets the bacteria culture in the septic tank and causes solids to build up faster, thus requiring more frequent pumping.

Q: Can I use “flushable” or “septic safe” wipes?

A: You can use them but DON’T flush them. Throw them in the trash. Unlike toilet paper, wipes are made of woven cloth that takes a long time to break down. When you flush a bunch of them, you run the risk of clogging your main sewer pipe and creating a back-up in your house.

Q: Can I use bleach in my laundry and to clean?

A: One load of laundry with a little non-chlorinated bleach each month is ok. For cleaning, we recommend “spot cleaning.” A safer alternative is a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. Look it up on YouTube. It naturally disinfects and you won’t be inhaling the harmful chlorine fumes.