Every house is different; when you move into a new home, you have to become accustomed to the different systems of that house. One of the systems that could vary between houses is the sewage system that it comes with. If you just moved into your new house and discovered that it has a septic tank rather than a public sewer system, you may not know what to expect. For starters, you should know how a septic tank operates.
Septic tanks are underground chambers that are made out of different materials, such as concrete, plastic, or fiberglass. The wastewater from your home flows into this chamber where it separates into 3 groups: solids, effluent, and scum. The solids settle at the bottom, the effluent is the middle layer, and the scum floats on top. Septic tanks can successfully function because of the natural occurring bacteria that they contain. This bacteria breaks down solid waste inside the septic tank, helping your tank to not get clogged.
It’s important that as a new owner of a septic tank, you recognize the importance of this bacteria. There are products that will kill the bacteria; this includes chemical cleaners, latex products, prescription medications, and septic tank additives. Companies will try to sell additives with bacteria or enzymes to “maintain” your septic tank, but these products are actually harmful.
You should also be aware of when your septic tank needs a Poughkeepsie NY septic tank inspection. You should get a Poughkeepsie NY septic tank inspection if you have wastewater backup inside your household drains, bright green grass on the drain field, pooling water around your system, or a strong odor. At Jones Septic Services, we provide Poughkeepsie NY septic tank pumping, Poughkeepsie NY septic tank cleaning, or Poughkeepsie NY septic tank repairs. If you need any of our septic services or have any questions over your new system, don’t hesitate to contact us.