Helpful Hints to Recognize When You Need to Pump
Your Tank
Useful Tips To Maintain Your Septic Tanks
Septic tank is one of your home’s most important components. If you forget the method of waste removal in your home, you will end up with an unpleasant mess. Luckily there are some easy ways to tell if your septic system is getting full, so you can get it looked at before the stench starts. Texas Pride Septic Inc. helps you with complete septic tank services. We serve in Greater Montgomery, Harris, Fort Bend, Liberty, Brazoria, and Waller Counties.
Helpful Tips That Indicate Your Septic Tank Is Getting Full
1. Pooling water
Areas of pooling water in your lawn after a heavy rain is one thing, but a mini lake on or around the drain field of your septic system could mean its overflowing. When your tank reaches capacity, solid waste can clog the drain field piping system and force the liquid to the surface, so if this is what you see on the lawn, it’s best to have your system pumped.
Pooling water can also be a home security issue–potentially indicating you’ve been away and have left your septic tank unattended.
2. Slow drains
Slow-moving drains in your home could mean a legitimate clog. However, if they remain stagnant even after unclogging measures, such as using drain cleaner (septic safe, of course), the system may be full. The same goes for slow flushing toilets too!
3. Odors
A septic system collects not only waste but also all the gray water that comes from showering, washing dishes and doing laundry, among others. Combined with the black water from the toilets, this creates an odorous mixture that would have the neighborhood skunks plugging their noses. If you catch a whiff of any unpleasant odors in your yard, it may be time to call for service.
4. An overly healthy lawn
Contrary to popular belief, the grass over your septic bed should look the same as grass elsewhere on your lawn. If it appears overly green and lush in that area, this could indicate your septic system is leaching liquids, and either it needs to be emptied or checked for leaks.
5. Sewer backup
The most obvious tip on the list, if not the grossest, is a sewer backup. It is a sure sign that your tank has reached capacity. Look for sewer backups to occur in the lowest drains first, such as a basement bathroom. If this happens, call a professional immediately.
Septic systems are a wonderfully green choice, which saves on any local sewer charges that would typically appear on your tax bill, and are relatively easy to take care of if you are on top of it. Do remember that anything you put down the drain will end up in the septic tank, and not all of it will be healthy for the system.
Always ensure you’re using green cleaners and paper products that are septic-safe, and refrain from overloading the system with other contaminants. Being present for the septic pumping process can be beneficial as well, as most septic professionals can inspect the contents of your tank as it's being pumped and give you an idea of how well your system is working, so you know how to keep it in tip-top shape.
Informative Guidelines for Buying and Selling Property with Septic Systems
Septic Tank Systems
While buying or selling properties utilizing a septic system, it is advisable to follow a few steps to ensure the system is in good working order. It also needs to be duly noted that even the maintenance contracts need to be ironed out to ensure that your septic system undergoes regular maintenance checks before it's too late.
Simple Suggestions To Make The Inspection Process Quicker And Easier
- Verify lender requirements
- Don't wait till the closing day to find out! Does the lender require a septic inspection? Most times VA and FHA lenders require an In-Tank inspection with Pumping. Is the lender going to require repairs to close?
- Septic inspection
- Order early in the option period. The septic system is one of the more costly items in a house.
In-Tank Inspection with Pumping
We recommend you conduct the septic inspection before the property inspection. Check out our services to see options that best fit your client's needs.
Associated Costs
1. Cost of the Inspector2. Cost to remove the dirt, off the lids of the septic tank(s)
3. Cost of pumping the tank(s) to look for structural integrity
Contract Verbiage
State clearly in "Special Provisions" of the sales contract, the type of inspection you are negotiating, who is paying for the inspection, the uncovering, and the pumping. Suggested contract verbiage:"Seller to provide Buyer an In-Tank Septic Inspection and pumping during the option period.
"OR"
Seller will pay for pumping and uncovering of the tank(s) at the time of Buyer's septic inspection costs not to exceed $_____."
Disclosures
TAR Form 1047 - "Information About On-Site Sewer Facility" Available at www.texasrealtors.comSystem Records
Aerobic Maintenance Contract
System Records
Q. Where is the septic on the property? What kind is it? Is there room for the pool or an extra garage?A: Order system records to get this information.
Educate Your Friends and Family
If you have friends or family who would septic tank(s) installed, refer them to our website. We can provide them with an overview and options. We recommend that they come to the septic inspection so we can educate them on their septic system.Educate Yourself
Want to get yourself up to speed on septic systems, the inspection process, and disclosure and permitting issues? Join Rainbow Septic Training Services for a 3-hour MCE course title "Understanding Septic System Regulations & Disclosure."Associated Costs
1. Cost of the Inspector
2. Cost to remove the dirt, off the lids of the septic tank(s)
3. Cost of pumping the tank(s) to look for structural integrity
