A backed-up waste disposal system is a major headache for homeowners. Not only can it cause flooding and destruction indoors, but the raw sewage that escapes is a health hazard for residents, especially children. Washington septic tank pumping helps keep home systems functioning safely through many years of use.
Malfunctioning underground containment systems fail most commonly because they become clogged with substances that cannot be easily broken down. Unlike buildings connected to city sewer lines, everything flushed remains nearby. When a home system is unable to process waste properly, it has nowhere to go except back into the pipes.
Most systems readily handle soaps, toilet paper and household cleaning products, but rebel when forced to deal with modern conveniences such as paper towels and baby wipes. Harsh solutions containing acids, such as drain cleaners, can even cause damage to the pipes. Some materials never decompose completely, and simply remain behind.
Bacterial and chemical solutions that aid the natural decomposition process may be helpful, but do not make routine maintenance unnecessary. When there are also drain field problems, adjacent soil can become saturated. Because the water never completely disappears, muddy spots form, creating the need for immediate or more frequent maintenance.
If that upkeep is ignored, processing problems may develop more rapidly, and can be exacerbated by too much rain, poor soil drainage, tree root penetration, or even the type of storage vessel. New systems can usually be repaired, but older tanks may have reached the end of useful service, and should be replaced.
If the current system no longer can handle normal waste processing, a local maintenance company can help determine if replacement is the best option. A new tank or drain-field helps eliminate odors originating from standing, unprocessed waste water, reduces health hazards, and increases the value of a home during resale.
