SEPTIC SYSTEMS:

Did you know that according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, more than 600,000 Minnesota homes and businesses use septic systems, treating an estimated 42 billion gallons of wastewater per year! Proper maintenance of these systems is critical to protecting our groundwater, wells, lakes and streams, and human health.

Septic systems, also known as subsurface sewage treatment systems, are soil-based treatment systems used by homes and businesses that are not connected to municipal sewers. A typical septic system has 3 main parts:

1. The home plumbing system consists of pipes connected to our plumbing fixtures that convey the waste to a main sewer line that will, through gravity drainage, or a pump, dump the waste into the septic tank.
2. The Septic tank is a buried watertight tank made from plastic, composites, or concrete. This tank is sized to retain wastewater for 24 to 36 hours and this allows the wastewater to be separated into three layers in the tank.
3. Solids sink to the bottom. Greases, fats, and soaps float to the top. The remaining liquid flows out to the drain field for final treatment. The drain field/mound is a designed soil treatment system using a series of perforated piping to distribute the liquids from the septic tank through a bed of sand to allow the remaining solids in the liquid to filter further.

SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE:

Do you know that septic systems require maintenance?

Many owners of septic systems assume that as long as the septic system is pumping and draining properly it does not need any maintenance.

 The solids that are not able to be broken down and accumulate in the septic need to be pumped out of the tank along with any sludge and scum that could endanger or plug the distribution piping in the septic drain bed.

The MPCA suggests that septic tanks should be evaluated at least every three years or sooner if the home has high use or is using a garbage disposal frequently.

Newer septic systems have a filter system between the septic tank and pump chamber that should be cleaned annually to prevent sewer back-ups into your home. Also, check ups on the system pumps, floats, risers, electrical panels is recommended to ensure proper performance and to prevent the system failures which always seem to come at the worst time.

SEPTIC SYSTEM PREVENTION:

 A properly constructed and maintained septic system can last a long time. Be aware of what is flushed into the drainage system. Don’t flush the following items: Diapers, tobacco products, feminine hygiene products, unused medications, paints or solvents, flammable material, coffee grounds, harsh cleaners, bleach, cat litter, grease or flushable wipes.

Keep your drain field or mound systems mowed and don’t plant deep rooted plants over or near the drain field, limit the driving of heavy vehicles on the drain field, especially in winter as this may pack the snow cover down which provides a protective layer which prevents the liquid distribution system from freezing.

 ASP provides full septic tank service and maintenance: Including Inspections, septic tank pumping, pump and control replacement, jetting, filter cleaning and riser replacements or extensions. Please call ASP at 218-724-4412