FAQs

Your septic system functions as a personal wastewater treatment facility. It's designed to process household waste from various sources like laundry, sinks, and toilets. Once waste enters the tank, bacteria break it down, converting much of it to liquid. Non-digestible matter settles as sludge at the bottom, while grease forms a scum layer on top. The liquid then passes through baffles into the drainfield, where it's absorbed and cleansed by the soil.

Regular cleaning and inspections of your septic system are crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This maintenance prevents issues such as slow draining fixtures and septic backups into your home. It also helps postpone the costly replacement of your drainfield. By cleaning your tank every two to three years, sludge levels are kept low, preventing it from entering and clogging the drainfield. Consider this upkeep an investment in your home's functionality, providing peace of mind and protection against embarrassing and disruptive sewage problems.

The frequency of septic tank cleaning depends on your household's usage patterns. Factors such as the number of residents, garbage disposal use, system age, and entertaining frequency all affect how quickly solid waste accumulates. On average, a septic tank should be cleaned every two to three years for a typical family of four. After cleaning and inspecting your system, we can provide a personalized frequency recommendation. Note that heavy use of a garbage disposal can increase sludge buildup, necessitating more frequent cleaning.

To maintain your septic system's efficiency, ensure the sludge is pumped out every two to three years. Avoid introducing harsh chemicals like paint solvents, thinners, and nail polish removers into the system. Even common household products like bleach, sink and toilet cleaners, and drain openers can harm the beneficial organisms in your tank. Additionally, never flush items such as diapers, feminine products, cigarette butts, condoms, or q-tips, as these can cause blockages in your system.

The thick crust, or scum, in your septic tank is formed by organic material that has solidified. This condition may indicate a bacterial deficiency in your system. Using Austin's bio-treatment can help by boosting the population of aerobic bacteria and enzymes, which work to break down this scum layer and convert it into liquid.

A grease trap is a specialized device attached to sink and equipment drains. It consists of chambered boxes with screens that slow down wastewater flow, allowing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) to cool and rise to the surface. Solids settle at the bottom, while the remaining water flows out through the sewer system. There are two main types: large outdoor underground grease interceptors, typically made of concrete, and smaller indoor grease traps located near sinks.

Neglecting regular cleaning of your grease trap can lead to serious consequences. Fats, oils, grease, and food solids may flow past the trap and harden in sewer pipes, causing major plumbing issues. These problems often result in expensive repairs and business downtime. Additionally, many municipalities have the authority to impose fines for improper maintenance of grease traps.

Cleaning a grease trap involves several steps. First, all fats, oils, grease (FOG), water, and food solids must be removed. The screens and interior of the trap are then scraped and rinsed thoroughly. It's crucial to ensure the outlet box is clear of waste. After cleaning, the trap should be refilled with water and tested for proper flow. Finally, the removed waste must be disposed of properly, and the exterior of the trap should be deodorized and cleaned.

Yes, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) pose significant problems for sewer systems. They adhere to pipe walls, restricting wastewater flow and potentially causing blockages and overflows. This leads to more frequent pipe cleaning and may necessitate premature pipe replacement. FOG-related clogs and overflows can create unpleasant, unsanitary conditions that may damage your business, property, and profits, as well as harm the environment.

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are present in many common food products. These include cooking oils, salad dressings, sandwich spreads, meat products, lard, shortening, dairy items, sauces, and butter or margarine. It's important to be aware of these sources to properly manage FOG disposal and maintain your plumbing system.