Welcome to the Internet. The place where messages spread instantly, regardless of their validity. But, this was happening long before by simple word of mouth. However, it’s hard, to tell the truth from fact and myths—including septic tanks and systems. So, here are some common septic myths, debunked.
Debunking Septic Myths
Starting With a New Septic Systems Requires Seeding
What’s seeding? Exactly what it sounds like—helping your system and bacteria grow with “seeds” or in this case organic material. And we have heard of everything under the sun: flushing a pound of yeast, manure, worms and more.
But, this is a myth. Your septic system does not need your help to get started. Just use the system, your human waste contains enough “seeding” abilities to get it started.
Additives Keep Old Systems Running Great
You’ve probably heard the claim…. Have an older system or a system that’s running less than efficient? Just add some additives!
But septic additives working miracles is a myth. Well-balanced septic tanks do not require any help. If your tank is unbalanced, the solutions are septic inspection, pumping, and proper maintenance. Using additives gamble that $25 will save you the cost of septic pumping—if it’s too good to be true it’s because it isn’t true.
Pump Your Septic Tank When It Is Full
This one has some truth to it, but it may not be what you think. An average family can fill a septic tank in a little over four days without altering regular water level use. It’s not needed to pump the septic tank every time this happens, just conserve water and let the system do its work.
However, if a septic tank is full of “sludge,” solids or is consistently full of liquid that does not drain—it’s time to have your system pumped. There are also a few instances when you should avoid pumping your tank.
Once Installed, Septic Tanks Take Care of Themselves
It’s true, with their biological processes and gravity flows, septic systems and tanks do all the work with little help from you. Being buried makes them easily forgettable. While you may not need to take direct actions, your habits need to change after the installation of septic tanks.
To keep your septic healthy, following septic and “Do Not Flush” rules while conserving water is required from your day-to-day routine. Additionally, scheduling septic tank pumping every 3-5 years keep septic systems running correctly and safely.
You’ll Only Need One Septic System
Septic systems do not last a lifetime. On average, systems last 25 years—and that’s with proper care and maintenance.
If you want longevity from your system, knowing the proper maintenance and septic rules is priority number one. But, sometimes the water is muddied by septic myths. Understanding which are true and which are nothing but old, wise tales can be confusing. Have questions about some tips you’ve heard? Call Advanced Septic Services in Clermont, FL today—we have your answers.