Septic Tank Cleaning

The thing with septic tanks is, when something in them goes wrong, it can be a costly and messy affair. When it comes to septic tank maintenance, “prevention is better than cure”. People with septic tanks need to properly maintain their tanks in order to avoid spending too much money for repair or treatment. Regular septic tank cleaning is the only way to prevent septic tank systems from clogging and well, causing too much financial troubles. Always remember that the more you do to keep your tank in good order, the more years it will keep working great.

So, how do you clean septic tanks? There is really only one way to clean septic tanks and that is by pumping them. Septic tank cleaning through pumping removes the solid build up which is an inevitable part of the septic process. Most septic tank system experts recommend that a typical home with a 1,000-gallon tank should be pumped every three to five years. A smaller tank, of course, needs to be pumped more often.

Septic tank maintenance is not rocket science; it is just all about you understanding the importance of regular septic tank cleaning. If your home uses a septic tank, it is your responsibility to properly maintain that tank. Failing to provide regular treatment and cleaning to your tank, will only give you a whole new set of issues to mind. Replacing “dead” septic tanks can be really costly, so being particular about septic tank cleaning is to your advantage.

 Safety Tips for Septic Tank Inspections

Never enter into a septic tank unless you have had all the necessary training and are wearing the necessary safety clothing including self contained breathing equipment.

Never ever work alone, getting stuck alone in a septic tank or even falling into one for that matter, can be extremely dangerous with a maintenance team member let alone if you are on your own.Also that fact that gases may be present and with the possibility of being overcome by these noxious gases single party or working alone is not a safe option.

Never ever, lean over into a septic tank as you could quite easily fall into the opening or even become overwhelmed by the noxious vapour causing you to fall in.

Ventilation is a must as the build up of gases if no ventilation is present will soon become an explosive environment. Also bearing in mind that some of these gases that are created as a consequence of decomposing waste such as Methane, in the right conditions, are explosive and it is well to bear in mind that in a confined environment like a septic tank Methane can become an asphyxiate which becomes deadly in seconds.

Never go into a septic tank to assist someone who has fallen in. As you may both very quickly become asphyxiated by the toxic gases present. Call the emergency services for assistance.Having said that, if you are equipped with the necessary breathing apparatus and fully trained in its use then your training will come into play.

The gases present in a septic tank are very toxic and combustible therefore never ignite a naked flame anywhere near a septic tank.

If it is noted during inspection that septic tank covers are damaged or parts of the installation has collapsed then the area should be marked off indicating to other people that danger is present in the impending area until the necessary repairs are undertaken.

Never drive over septic tank installations or pipes.

Be very careful when digging around septic tanks as electrical cables may be present.