Maintaining a healthy septic tank will extend its life and significantly reduce the need for repair. It will also help to ensure it remains in excellent working condition. This includes routine inspections, cleaning the components, and replacing worn-out parts. Neglecting maintenance leads to pump failures, wastewater backup, and potentially irreparable damage to the septic system.
Septic pumping is a necessary form of maintenance for septic systems. It ensures that your tank remains in excellent working condition. Once you narrow down the list of local professionals, it’s time to start prepping for their visit. Taking proactive measures before they arrive to service the septic system will make it a smooth and pleasant experience for all. By following the steps below, your septic pumping service visit should run smoothly and efficiently.
1. Understand the Purpose of Septic Pumping
The primary purpose of a septic pump is to assist with getting rid of the liquid waste that accumulates in the septic tank by transferring it to the system’s designated drainage area where it is absorbed by the ground or treated if necessary. The septic pump is usually placed inside of the tank or in its own separate chamber within the septic system. A septic pump is needed only when gravity isn’t enough to extract the sewage and transfer it to the designated drain. This is usually determined by the distance of the drainage system. If the drain is too far away, a septic pump is used to ensure the wastewater is disposed of properly.
2. Confirm Their Credentials and Credibility
Ask for copies of the septic pumping company’s contractor license, certificate of insurance, customer testimonials that support their service claims, and the number of years they have been servicing septic tanks. Confirmation of their expertise will make you feel at ease and guarantee you receive high-quality service from licensed professionals in the field. If their credentials cannot be validated or if they do not have insurance, find another septic pumping company.
3. Compliance of State Laws and Requirements
Before the septic team of professionals comes by to service the tank, inquire about what measures have been taken by the company to ensure they are in compliance with state and local laws. In addition to acquiring the necessary permits to commence work, a layout of any plans that may affect the zoning laws must be supplied. It is also mandatory that they comply with the state’s Department of Health’s ordinances that cover delays, size, and separations. This will minimize the risks of receiving fines or other legal ramifications.
4. How to Open Your Septic Tank
The opening to the septic tank is covered by a concrete or plastic lid. Ensure it is easily accessible and free of heavy objects, debris, or anything else that may cause obstruction. Then remove the lid so the technicians can easily access the opening. Mark or flag it to create a visual target that could be easily spotted.
5. Alert Everyone in the Home
Let everyone know about the upcoming septic pumping service appointment. Advise them that they should refrain from using, drinking, or flushing water as much as they can during the visit. Pets should be kept indoors or secured in a contained area. This will lessen the probability of any interference or accidents while the technicians work on your septic tank. Alerting your neighbors that there will be work done that may affect their peace and tranquility is a courteous act that will be appreciated.
6. Septic Tank 411 for Techs
Provide the septic professionals with any relevant information pertaining to your septic tank. This includes the size of the tank, where it’s located, and the last time it was serviced. Accurate details will assist the technicians in properly assessing the condition of your system and tailor the results of their observation accordingly.
7. Provide a List of Septic Tank Issues
It is important to share with the septic professionals any concerns or signs that there may be something wrong with your septic system problems. Create a list for their reference. Common issues that may get your attention are slow drains, unpleasant odors, and puddled water. Being notified in advance prior to working on the septic tank allows the technicians to prepare and bring the necessary equipment and tools that may help address your concerns and any potential problems they may encounter while servicing the septic system.
8. Clear Path to the Septic Tank
Make sure the path that leads to the septic tank and its surrounding area where the septic crew will be working is cleared. Put away toys and gadgets, relocate furnishings that sit in the pathway, and put aside any other items that will be in their way. Aside from being a safety measure, it also allows the technicians ample space to execute their services.
9. Ask Questions Throughout the Process
Make a list of questions to ask the septic experts before, during, and after their service visit. Don’t hesitate to ask each one. Getting answers will provide you with an understanding of the service you will be getting and why it is necessary. Be assertive, but do not get in the way of their productivity unless you are addressing an urgent matter. After a complete initial assessment, the technicians are able to determine the current state of the septic tank. Questions may also assist you with comprehending how, when, and why you should schedule recurring appointments.
10. Allocate a Parking Space
Contractors usually face complications when parking their commercial vehicles. Eliminating this challenge will save time. If a garage or driveway is not an option, select a space as close to the septic tank as possible. This will simplify the process of unloading and loading equipment and tools that will be used to service the septic tank. A convenient parking spot also reduces the possibility of being serviced by disgruntled technicians. Frustration may decrease their focus and quality of work.
By proactively addressing the septic pumping process, homeowners can minimize the risk of potential health hazards associated with a lack of septic system maintenance. Through careful preparation, you can help create a healthier environment for yourself and your family. Getting ready before the service visit will reduce the likelihood of being exposed to harmful bacteria and contaminants. Knowing and embracing what your role is in the process will benefit all of the parties involved. It will provide you with a sense of control that will empower you to be an effective team player.
Keeping your home safe and living within a hygienic environment are valid priorities. You have the right to be an active participant in any activity that may affect those priorities. For safety purposes, leave the technical work for the pros. Work with Express Septic & Drain Cleaning. We provide septic services throughout Nampa, Caldwell, ID, and the surrounding areas. From repairs to pumping to inspections and maintenance, we’ve got you covered. Call us today!
