Many homeowners have their septic systems pumped in the fall to prepare for winter. Pumping before temperatures plummet makes a system less prone to damage and backups caused by freezing, and weather conditions in the fall months are ideal for septic tank professionals. Before pumping begins, the various parts of a septic system must be identified and located. Here’s why that’s important.

Preventing Damage

A septic pump truck can weigh more than 30,000 pounds. Septic tank professionals will try to park their vehicles on the street or in a driveway to avoid damaging lawns and gardens, but this is not always possible. If a septic pump truck has to drive on your property to reach your septic tank, the drain field must be located first to prevent problems that could damage your property and threaten your health.

Finding the Right Access Point

Septic tanks have a main cover and narrow inspection ports. The system must be inspected before pumping can begin, so all of the various access points must be identified. Accessing a septic tank properly will also prevent the release of gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide. This is important because these gases can cause serious illnesses.

Identifying Leaks

Septic tank professionals conduct dye tests to find leaks and verify that drains and appliances are properly connected to the system. The test is performed by adding fluorescent liquid or tablets to the septic tank and then turning on faucets in the home. If any of the dye rises to the surface, the system has a leak or a drain is not connected.

Locating Plants that Could Damage the System

Plants love septic system drain fields because the earth is rich in the nutrients they need, but their roots can damage components like tanks, distribution boxes and conveyance pipes. Tree roots can breach a septic system, and plant roots can find their way into tiny cracks and cause blockages. Locating trees and plants that could damage a septic system can prevent these problems and avoid costly repairs.

Checking Drainage

Proper drainage around a septic system is crucial. If rain oversaturates a septic drain field, groundwater can be contaminated and wastewater can back up. Locating the parts of a septic system before pumping in the fall allows professionals to verify that rainwater accumulation is not a problem and lawn sprinkler systems are located at least 20 feet away.

Septic System Professionals You Can Count On

Pumping a septic system regularly prevents overflows and backups, and the weather conditions in the fall are perfect for this work. Before a septic tank is pumped, components like access ports, distribution boxes and drain and conveyance pipes must be located to prevent damage, identify problems and verify that the system is working properly. Straight Flush Septic has been serving North Carolina residents for years, and we have an A+ rating from the BBB. If you need septic tank pumping services in Winston-Salem, NC, call the friendly professionals at Straight Flush Septic today.