Common Septic Questions(FAQ)
Are there things I should avoid putting in my septic system?
There are several items that can cause damage to your septic system. These include: Feminine hygiene products, excessive toilet paper use, baby/face wipes, condoms, medication/vitamins, grease, paint, food, kitty litter, bleach and fabric softeners. Plus many more. It is also recommended to use liquid or gel detergent for your washing machine and dishwasher. You should avoid using powdered detergent.
Can I use my garbage disposal?
We recommend not using a garbage disposal with a septic system. The use of a garbage disposal will dramatically effect the amount of scum and sludge produced, and will significantly increase your need for pumping.
Do I need to know where my septic tank is located?
We recommend not using a garbage disposal with a septic system. The use of a garbage disposal will dramatically effect the amount of scum and sludge produced, and will significantly increase your need for pumping.
How can I access my septic tank?
Each septic tank has 1-5 lids that will allow you access to the septic tank. The lids will either be risered to grade, or they will be slightly below the surface of the ground, and need to be exposed.
How can I make access to my septic tank easier?
If your lids are more than 2-3 inches under the soil we can install risers for you to make this easier. Risers extend the lids of your septic tanks to ground level. Having risers installed will save you time and money every time you need your septic tank pumped or are having a problem. They will also help you with your maintenance. Risers are required on new systems.
How often should my septic tank be pumped?
Your septic tank should generally be pumped every 3 years, depending on how many people are in the home. Even more often with heavy use of toilet paper or if you use a garbage disposal.
I don't know where my septic tank is located.
You can contact the King County Health Dept and request an “AsBuilt” to help you locate your tank. We also offer electronic tank locating and probing services to help you with locating your tank.
I have a filter in my septic tank. Should I clean this?
Your filter needs to be cleaned every 6 to 12 months. Not every septic tank system will have a filter.
Is it okay for me to build over or do any other kind of landscaping on my drainfield?
No – you should not do all of your laundry on the same day. Doing multiple loads of laundry at the same time along with showers and other household activities that require alot of water will cause excessive water discharge into the septic system. This is the number one danger to drainfields. Try to just do one load in the morning and one load in the evening.
My agent said I need an inspection to sell my home. Please ask for details.
Please let us know if you are having your tank pumped for a real estate sale.
My sink and bath are starting to to gurgle/back up. What does this mean?
These are both signs that your septic tank system is having problems. It could mean several things, your pump may be failing, your lines may be clogged or there could be a problem with your drainfield. Getting your septic tank pumped and inspected is usually the first thing recommended.
Should the pump tank be pumped at the same time as the septic tank?
The pump tank should be pumped every 2nd time you have your septic tank pumped- depending on the size and usage of your tank.
What are the main components of a septic tank system?
The main components of a septic system are: