What Homeowners Need to Know About Septic Systems Inspection - Part 2

March 15, 2023

A septic system is a vital part of any home’s plumbing system and is responsible for wastewater treatment and disposal. Staying aware of potential signs that your septic system may need inspection or repair is vital. As the most widely used option for treating wastewater, a malfunctioning septic system can lead to costly repairs if not caught early on.

Read on to find out the common warning signs so that you can take action fast if needed.

Warning Signs Your Septic System Needs Inspection

1. Foul Odors Coming From the Drain Field

One of the tell-tale signs that your septic system may need inspection and repair is a foul smell coming from the location of the drain field. This odor indicates that there may be an issue with the underground septic system or some condition in the soil surrounding it.

2. Toilets That Don’t Flush Properly

A malfunctioning septic system can cause blockages in your plumbing, leading to improper flushing of your toilets. This can occur if the septic tank is full or the drain field is clogged, which can impede the proper flow of wastewater. In some cases, toilets may also gurgle, or you may notice water backing up in your sinks and showers.

3. Excessive Green and Lush Grass Growth

When the septic tank is full or leaks, untreated sewage can seep out of the ground and into the surrounding soil. It causes an abundance of nitrogen-rich nutrients to reach the grassroots, which fuels rapid and healthy growth.

How Often Is a Septic System Inspected?

To ensure the proper functioning of a septic system, homeowners must schedule regular inspections. The frequency of these inspections should be determined by the type of system and its surroundings. If the system is located in an area with heavy rainfall or near a body of water, it may be more susceptible to malfunction, making more frequent inspections necessary.

By considering these environmental factors, homeowners can take proactive measures to ensure their septic system remains in good condition and avoid costly repairs that could have been prevented through timely inspections.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Septic System Inspections?

1. Identify Potential Problems

Like any other system or appliance, Septic systems require regular maintenance and servicing to remain functional and safe. Failing to get regular inspections can result in costly repairs and replacements and even cause environmental damage due to untreated wastewater leaking into local water sources.

2. Prolong the Life of Your Septic System

Regular maintenance and inspection help to ensure that the tank is kept in good working order, which allows it to stay effective for a more extended period of time. A well-maintained septic tank is less likely to suffer from sediment buildup and other debris that can decrease efficiency and cause complete failure over time.

3. Ensure Compliance With Local Regulations

Property owners can identify any issues that may prevent their systems from meeting local regulations and take corrective action as needed by conducting regular inspections. It can help reduce the risk of costly fines or other penalties arising from violations of local codes or ordinances.

Conclusion

Homeowners must understand the importance of regularly inspecting their septic systems to ensure they remain in optimal working condition for many years. Not only can regular inspections help prevent expensive repairs and replacements, but they can also extend the lifespan of your septic system and provide peace of mind.

Be sure to contact a certified professional to perform regular septic tank inspections so homeowners can rest assured knowing their system is working correctly.

Do you need a septic system inspection? Check out Alternative Septic Management Inc.! An experienced professional will inspect your storage units and drainage systems to guarantee that each component functions properly and is under the rules governing waste disposal. Contact us for more information!

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The Impact of Household Chemicals on Aerobic Treatment Units

February 10, 2025

Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are an essential part of advanced septic solutions, providing efficient wastewater treatment for residential and commercial properties. Unlike traditional septic systems, ATUs rely on aerobic bacteria to break down waste, ensuring cleaner effluent and reduced environmental impact. However, maintaining a healthy bacterial ecosystem within an ATU is crucial for its effectiveness. One of the most common threats to ATU health is the improper use of household chemicals. Many common household cleaning and personal care products contain harsh chemicals that can disrupt the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in an ATU. Understanding how these chemicals affect your system and what steps you can take to protect it can help extend its lifespan and maintain its efficiency. Alternative Septic Management specializes in helping homeowners and businesses in Georgia maintain their ATUs by providing expert guidance, routine maintenance, and solutions to protect bacterial ecosystems. Their professional services ensure that your system continues to function at peak performance while minimizing environmental impact. How Household Chemicals Affect Aerobic Treatment Units The Role of Bacteria in ATUs Aerobic treatment units depend on a thriving colony of aerobic bacteria to break down organic waste efficiently. These bacteria require oxygen to function properly, and ATUs are designed to supply continuous aeration to support their activity. When household chemicals enter the system, they can disrupt this bacterial balance, leading to reduced treatment efficiency and potential system failures. Common Harmful Household Chemicals Certain chemicals are particularly harmful to ATU bacteria, including: Bleach and Disinfectants: While effective for killing germs in the home, these chemicals also kill the beneficial bacteria necessary for wastewater treatment. Drain Cleaners and Solvents: Harsh drain cleaners contain caustic substances that can kill bacteria and damage system components. Antibacterial Soaps and Detergents: These products are designed to eliminate bacteria, which can weaken the microbial balance in an ATU. Medications and Personal Care Products: Flushing medications, particularly antibiotics, can severely disrupt bacterial populations within the system. Harsh Laundry Detergents and Fabric Softeners: Some detergents contain phosphates and chemicals that can be toxic to ATU bacteria. Signs of Chemical Damage in Your ATU When an ATU is exposed to harmful household chemicals over time, several warning signs may indicate a bacterial imbalance or system inefficiency. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent costly repairs and potential system failure. Foul Odors A properly functioning ATU should not produce strong, unpleasant odors. If you notice a persistent sewage smell near your drain field or around the system, it could indicate that bacteria are struggling to break down waste efficiently. Slow or Failing Wastewater Treatment If your drains are slower than usual or wastewater is not processing correctly, it may be due to bacterial die-off caused by chemical exposure. A lack of active bacteria means that waste is not being properly treated before being discharged. Increased Sludge Buildup and Clogging A loss of bacterial efficiency can lead to excessive sludge buildup in the ATU. This can cause clogging in the system, leading to backups, overflow, or even mechanical failures. System Alarms or Mechanical Issues Many ATUs are equipped with alarms that alert homeowners to operational issues. If your system’s alarm is triggered, it is essential to investigate the cause, as it may be linked to chemical contamination. Safe Alternatives: Protecting Your ATU From Chemicals To maintain a healthy ATU and ensure the longevity of your system, it is crucial to use septic-safe products and adopt responsible household habits. Choosing Safe Cleaners for Septic Systems Opting for natural or biodegradable cleaning products can help preserve the bacterial balance within your ATU. Consider using: Vinegar and Baking Soda: A natural alternative for cleaning surfaces and unclogging drains without harming bacteria. Plant-Based and Biodegradable Cleaning Products: Many eco-friendly cleaners are designed to be non-toxic to septic systems. Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners: These products use natural enzymes to break down organic matter without killing beneficial bacteria. Responsible Chemical Disposal Instead of flushing harmful chemicals down the drain, dispose of them properly: Take unused medications to designated take-back programs instead of flushing them. Dispose of paint thinners, solvents, and other toxic chemicals at hazardous waste collection sites. Use minimal amounts of bleach and disinfectants, and opt for ATU-safe alternatives. Best Practices for Preserving ATU Health Along with avoiding harmful chemicals, implementing regular maintenance and best practices can help optimize ATU performance. Routine System Maintenance Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for keeping an ATU in optimal working condition. Professional service providers, such as Alternative Septic Management, offer expert inspections to ensure all system components function correctly and that bacterial levels remain balanced. Spacing Out Laundry Loads Excessive detergent use and high water volume can strain an ATU. Doing multiple loads of laundry in one day can overload the system, diluting bacterial levels and reducing treatment efficiency. Spreading laundry loads throughout the week can help maintain balance. Using ATU-Friendly Products Choose liquid detergents over powdered ones, as powder detergents can contain fillers that clog system components. Look for labels that indicate a product is septic-safe or biodegradable. Alternative Septic Management: Your Partner in ATU Maintenance Alternative Septic Management specializes in the maintenance and care of aerobic treatment units in Georgia. Their team understands the unique needs of ATUs and provides expert services to keep your system running smoothly. From routine inspections to system troubleshooting, their professionals help homeowners prevent issues caused by household chemicals and other common septic challenges. Why Choose Alternative Septic Management? Expert Knowledge: Their team is highly trained in aerobic treatment systems and bacterial balance. Regular Maintenance Plans: They offer scheduled service plans to keep your ATU operating efficiently. Eco-Friendly Solutions: Alternative Septic Management helps homeowners choose safe and effective products for their systems. Taking proactive steps to protect your ATU from harmful household chemicals can save you money and extend the life of your system. If you need professional guidance or septic services such as a septic system inspection or alternative septic system maintenance, Alternative Septic Management is here to help. Contact their team today to schedule an inspection and ensure your ATU remains in top condition.

Understanding the Role of Bacteria in Aerobic Treatment Units

January 27, 2025

Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are an advanced septic solution designed to treat wastewater more efficiently than traditional systems. At the heart of an ATU's functionality is its reliance on bacteria. These microorganisms are essential for breaking down waste, ensuring the system operates effectively, and protecting the environment. Alternative Septic Management specializes in maintaining and optimizing ATUs, ensuring that the bacteria within these systems thrive and perform at their best. In this blog, we’ll explore the vital role of bacteria in aerobic treatment units, how they work, and how to optimize their performance for long-term success.