If a residential property is not connected to the sewer system, a septic system is needed to treat the wastewater from the house. The septic system usually consists of chambered tanks attached to the home’s drainage pipes. Solid waste from the toilet and sinks flows into the tank and settles at the bottom. After enzymes break the solid waste down, it will eventually need to be pumped out to create space for more waste.
The fluids associated with the waste are usually drained to a drain field, also known as a leach field. For this wastewater treatment system to function optimally, it needs regular maintenance. This helps prevent disasters that can be harmful to everyone’s health. So, what are these issues that can be avoided through septic maintenance? Read on to learn more about septic maintenance and its benefits.
Environmental Contamination
As mentioned, wastewater is usually directed into the septic tank, which may be filled after a few months or years. The duration of filling this tank depends on several factors, including the size of the septic system and the amount of wastewater produced. Once the tank is filled, the incoming wastewater will be challenging to treat. The wastewater will spill and contaminate the ground through the leach field.
This kind of contamination is known to introduce bacteria into the groundwater supplies. It can also threaten human and wildlife health if they consume contaminated water or crops from the area around the septic system.
The only way to avoid environmental contamination is to prioritize septic tank maintenance. Pumping the septic waste makes it easy to check the system’s condition and determine if septic tank pumping services are needed. The pumping service is usually delicate as it involves cleaning out the tank, so it should only be assigned to professionals with appropriate equipment.
Health Hazards
When wastewater overflows, it can enter the local community and expose residents to serious conditions like gastrointestinal infections. The overflowing system also creates unsanitary conditions, such as airborne pollutants and awful odors.
However, homeowners can avoid these challenges when they get professionals to inspect and maintain their septic system. During the visit, the experts will determine if the system needs repairs or pumping to reduce the risk and ensure everyone in that home and neighborhood stays healthy.
Reduced Property Value
A homeowner might decide to sell their property after a few years and want it to maintain or improve in value. The condition of a septic system can influence a home’s market value. Before buying, many prospective buyers ask for a specific inspection and the documents that show how the system has been maintained over the years.
All these details assure the buyer that the septic system and the house are in good condition. However, when a homeowner does not share these details, the prospective buyer will use it as an excuse to reduce the property value or walk away for good.
So, homeowners who use these wastewater treatment systems should schedule regular maintenance. They should also keep records to preserve the property’s resale appeal and avoid last-minute price changes when making a real estate deal.
Skipping septic tank maintenance is a mistake that can cause various issues, from environmental impact to health hazards. For this reason, homeowners should prioritize professional maintenance and adhere to the recommended pumping schedules.