Are you moving to a new house? How exciting! Any time you move, there are new things to which you’ll need to adjust. Whether you’re moving to a larger house, moving to a new area, or downsizing, you’ll have to learn the quirks of your new house and it will take a while before it truly feels like home. If you’re moving to a house with a septic tank, and you’ve never had a septic system before, you’ll need to be aware that there are some differences between septic and sewer systems. Here, we’ll go over some basics to help you get a handle on your new tank.
- First, understand that a septic system is your responsibility. As the homeowner, you are entirely responsible for maintaining and repairing a septic system. This can be a big change if you’re used to relying on a public utility company to keep up with your sewer. While you’re gathering information about your new home from the seller, make sure to find out where the septic tank is located, when it was last pumped, and what you should expect as far as keeping up with maintenance.
- Without exception, septic tanks must be pumped. It’s an expense that will need to be managed every few years, but it’s a non-negotiable home maintenance task. If you’re unfamiliar with this process, it involves hiring someone to remove the wastes that are unable to dissolve inside the tank in order to prevent scum and sludge from building up and running your septic system. If you ignore your septic tank, you’ll end up with a squishy, stinky yard and waste that backs up into your indoor plumbing fixtures, so make sure you’re handling this chore every three to five years.
- It’s worth it to find a company that cleans the tank after pumping it. Not all companies include this in their septic and sewer services. However, cleaning the tank after the waste has been pumped out will help keep the system working properly for longer.
- The septic tank should be inspected. With any luck, the seller will have it inspected before the house is listed. The inspector will check for sewage leak out, odors, and any problems with the tank or drain field. If it hasn’t already been done when you buy the house, make sure you call for an inspection to save yourself money and stress down the road.
- Perhaps the most important thing to know about a septic tank is what you can and cannot put down your drains. This is vital to keep your system working properly. You’ll need to follow the rules, only using septic safe toilet paper, flushing only toilet paper and waste, and keeping harsh chemicals and oils out of the drains. If you’re careful with your septic system, it will work effectively for many years.
Any time you need help with your septic system, trust Trinity Liquid Waste. A family-owned business, we’ve been proudly serving customers throughout the Bay area for over 25 years. Specializing in residential and commercial septic and sewer services, our professional team provides exceptional service at affordable rates. Whether you need routine maintenance or 24-hour emergency service, we’re here for you. Call (510) 874-6489 or contact us through our website for more information.