Don't Ignore These Signs of Septic System Failure!

May 8, 2023

When it comes to home maintenance, the septic system is often overlooked until there's a problem. That's because it's hidden underground, out of sight and out of mind. However, neglecting your septic system can lead to costly repairs and potential health hazards. Here are some signs of septic system failure to watch out for and what you can do about them.

Slow Drains

One of the first signs of septic system failure is slow drains in your sinks, tubs, and toilets. This can be caused by a clogged pipe or a problem with the septic tank itself. If you notice water taking longer than usual to drain, it's time to address the issue immediately. You can try using a plunger or a plumbing snake, but if the problem persists, it's best to have your septic system inspected.

Foul Odors

The smell is caused by the buildup of waste and gases in the tank and pipes. This can be a serious health hazard, so have the issue addressed immediately. A professional can inspect your septic system and determine the cause of the odor. It could be a clogged vent pipe, a damaged tank, or a problem with the drain field.

Standing Water

If you see standing water around the septic tank or in your yard, it could be a sign of septic system failure. This may mean the drain field is not absorbing water properly, or the tank is overflowing. Standing water creates a breeding ground for bacteria and can contaminate your water supply, so get your septic tank checked as soon as possible.

Sewage Backup

A sewage backup is an evident and severe sign of a failing septic system. If you notice sewage coming back up through your home's drains, toilets, or sinks, your septic system is not functioning properly. This can pose significant health risks, as sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens. In this case, you should contact a professional to inspect and repair your septic system.

What to Do

Schedule Regular Maintenance

The best way to prevent sewage backups and other septic system issues is to schedule regular maintenance for your system. This includes having your septic tank pumped out every 3-5 years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people living in your home. Regular maintenance can help identify potential problems before they become serious and costly to repair.

Conserve Water

Excessive water usage can overload your system, leading to backups and other issues. To conserve water, fix any leaks in your plumbing, install low-flow showerheads and toilets, and avoid running water unnecessarily. You should also spread out water usage throughout the day and week rather than doing multiple loads of laundry and running the dishwasher at the same time.

Avoid Chemicals

Chemicals such as bleach, drain cleaners, and other harsh cleaners can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic system that break down waste. Avoid these chemicals and opt for natural, septic-safe alternatives instead. Also, refrain from flushing non-biodegradable items such as feminine hygiene products, diapers, and wipes, as these can clog your system.

The Bottom Line

Taking care of your septic system is important for both the environment and your wallet. Regular maintenance and proper usage can avoid costly repairs and extend its life. With these tips, you can be sure that your septic system will work efficiently and effectively for years to come. If you notice a problem with your septic system, don't wait to address it.

Alternative Septic Management Inc. can do aerobic septic system repairs and maintenance at once. Our company offers a variety of septic services, including inspections, repairs, and installation of new systems. Call or text 404-788-3474 to book an alternative septic service.

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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.