Some Fun Facts on Septic Systems for the Tucson Homeowner
You may have asked yourself what is really going on after you put in a flush. Or perhaps you are not sure of your septic system’s age, or how the Southern Arizona desert puts its own spin on their operation. Then there is the matter of the tank underfoot in your yard and the extent to which your home is reliant on it.
Homeowners as a rule do not put such questions to themselves until they have cause to. We at Pride Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical can tell you from experience that knowing a thing or two makes all the difference; we have been around Tucson and the rest of Southern Arizona since 2010 to see it. For any plumbing queries, (520) 467-6373 is our number.
In the main, a septic system is an unobtrusive piece of equipment. But it has its share of interesting particulars if one wants to be a better steward of the home. Here are a few to consider.
More History to Your Septic System Than You Would Imagine
The modern iteration of the septic system is really an old story, with roots in the 1800s when a Frenchman put together a prototype of the concrete tank in use now. The technology may have come of age but the principle is much as it was: wastewater goes into the tank, the solids make their way to the bottom and the liquid, once treated, is sent to the drain field for the soil to handle.
Billions at Work in Your Tank
It is not widely appreciated that a septic tank is in a sense alive. Day in and day out billions of bacteria are hard at work decomposing waste in there, without which the system would be of no use.
Yet one has to be careful. Some things will put a damper on the process by harming the bacteria. Make sure none of the following enters your septic system:
- Drain cleaners of the harsh variety
- Excessive use of antibacterial soaps
- Paint thinners and paint
- Oils and cooking grease
- Food scraps, coffee grounds
- Toilet paper and nothing else, regardless of what “flushable” packaging might say
Do this and the good bacteria will remain in good health and the system will function as intended.
A Desert Difference
There are conditions in Tucson and environs that a septic system in other parts of the country does not have to contend with. The heat here will hasten the breakdown in the tank and our sandy soil is not like the wet clay you find elsewhere.
One would think a desert system requires no tending, and many homeowners are of that mind. In fact, the reverse is true in Southern Arizona and regular checkups are called for.
Decades of Service If You Put in the Effort
Twenty five to forty years is not uncommon for a well looked after septic system, a considerable span for something that does not often cross your mind. Consistent maintenance is the key. A tank of a certain size in a busy household will need pumping every so often. It also helps to space out the laundry over the course of the week to let the system keep pace.
Heed the Warning Signs
For the most part your septic system will make it known if there is a problem. Being able to pick up on it early spares you trouble later. Be on the lookout for:
- Drains that are slower than usual in the house
- A gurgling from the pipes
- Odours about the tank or drain field
- Puddles or a patch of grass that is too green over the drain field
- Any sewage coming back up in the tub or sink
Should you see any of the above, a call to a professional plumber is the prudent course of action.
Be Proactive
Rather than having to deal with issues as they arise, it is better to forestall them. Our Pride Protection Plan is a case in point; for a single payment you get four visits a year to your home for plumbing, HVAC and electrical inspections.
We are a licensed and insured operation (ROC License 356279, 356280, 356281) with an A+ from the BBB and free estimates are available. Pride Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is at your service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
To arrange a tune-up or to discuss your septic system, get in touch with us at (520) 467-6373 and our team will be glad to provide the care your home should have.