Dealing with wastewater is something every Nampa home has to handle. You should monitor your septic system, and one way to make this more convenient is with a septic system alarm. Learn about how this component aids you in keeping your septic system functioning properly, how to maintain it and what to do to troubleshoot possible problems.
Septic System Alarm Basics
These alarms alert you when your septic system is having possible issues. Plumbers install the alarm close to the tank, and when certain conditions deviate from what is normal, these trigger the alarm. This can help reduce the risk of serious issues since you will know as soon as something abnormal is occurring, such as system failures or sewage backups. When the alarm sounds, you should contact a plumber so that they can fully evaluate your system.
It is common for high water levels to trigger your septic system alarm. When the water gets too high in your system, this could indicate a malfunction or a blockage that a plumber needs to quickly evaluate.
If your system has an effluent pump that fails, this can trigger the alarm. Quickly rectifying this issue can help prevent wastewater from backing up into your home.
Some of the alarms will alert you if there is a power outage. This will let you know to avoid use until you can restore the system’s electrical power.
The alarms come with a battery backup so that they can monitor your system continuously. If your power goes out, the alarm will still work to alert you of a potential issue.
Most septic system alarms have both audible and visual alerts, for example, a beep or siren along with flashing lights.
Septic System Alarm Importance
These alarms allow you to detect possible issues early before they are able to escalate. This can reduce the risk of a sewage backup and decrease the chances of your system sustaining damage.
When your septic system is not functioning properly, this could pose a health risk due to exposure to untreated sewage since it can contain harmful pathogens and bacteria. An alarm can prevent untreated wastewater from moving back into your home or polluting your yard since you will know about a problem before it gets too severe.
A septic system alarm could save you money. When you tackle malfunctions quickly, the repair will likely not be as extensive or costly compared to problems that go undetected.
Knowing that your system is malfunctioning quickly may offer environmental protection. This is because problems that could result in nearby soil and water contamination are less likely when you address issues quickly.
Septic System Alarm Components
The float switch will fall and rise with the water level since it is a buoyant device. When your system’s water levels reach a certain point, the alarm will trigger to tell you that they are too high.
There is a control panel that is home to the alarm system’s electronic components. It takes signals from the float switch and interprets them so that it can activate the alarm when there is a problem.
There are flashing lights or other visual indicators. These could be on a separate visible unit or on the control panel.
The alarms on a septic system usually rely on electricity for power. However, you can find several options that have a battery that serves as a backup if there is a power outage.
If you choose a more advanced alarm for your septic system, it might have remote monitoring capabilities. You can connect it to your smartphone or other devices to receive alerts and to get information on your system’s status.
Installation Considerations
You should always have a plumber install your septic system alarm. This ensures proper installation and that it will function correctly. There are plumbing and electrical aspects to the process that require some knowledge to tackle.
Homeowners need to hear and see the alerts, so you want to ensure the right proximity to your home. Remember that during storms, it can be loud outside, so think about this, too, when it comes to hearing the alarm.
You need to be able to access the control panel easily. Your plumber will need to use it for troubleshooting and to do routine maintenance.
The float switch needs to be at a precise depth inside your septic tank to be able to detect the water levels accurately. There will be manufacturer’s guidelines that will provide the proper depth requirements for the exact alarm that you choose.
Choose an alarm that is compatible with your septic tank. It has to match the specific configuration and type of system that you have.
You should perform regular testing to ensure that your alarm is working properly. Test the audible alerts, visual indicators and the float switch.
Septic System Alarm Troubleshooting
Sometimes, you will get the audible alert, but the visual indicators will not work. This is generally due to light component problems, such as burned-out bulbs or loose connections.
If there is continuous activation of the alarm, this could indicate that your septic system is having a persistent problem. It is best to have a plumber come out and inspect your system since this could mean that the pump is failing or there is a blockage.
When the float switch has an accumulation of debris or other buildup, this could cause a false alarm. Keeping the float switch clean is vital for accurate detection.
The backup battery or power source might be faulty if your septic system is working properly, but the alarm is giving you a power outage alert. Changing the batteries may help solve this problem.
If you have a remote monitoring system, it may glitch occasionally. This could mean that there is a connection issue with your internet.
Delayed alerts can make it hard to fix issues as they occur. This might happen due to a faulty float switch or malfunctioning control panel.
Septic System Alarm Maintenance
Test the visual and audible alerts to ensure that they are functioning correctly. Keep the float switch clean so that it is able to move freely. Take a look at the battery to make sure that it is reliable. Examine the alarm system to see if there is any visible damage. Make sure that the plumber who does your septic system inspections also checks the alarm system during the process.
Plumbing Experts in Nampa
When you have a septic tank for your home in Nampa, it is a good idea to have a general understanding of septic alarms and the other components of this system. We can help you with your septic system, including the alarm, whether you need pumping, a repair service or preventative maintenance. Let us know if you also need any help with your drains. Call Express Septic & Drain Cleaning in Nampa today to get expert help and more information about septic tank alarms.
