As a new homeowner in southwest Michigan, one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining your property is understanding and caring for your septic system. Whether you’re in a rural area or part of a residential community, septic systems are often the unsung heroes that ensure your home’s waste management works efficiently. Proper maintenance not only keeps your household running smoothly but also protects your long-term investment. Kalamazoo Excavation, a veteran-owned business, specializes in septic installs and emergency septic repairs, offering expert guidance on caring for your system.
Does my new home have a septic system?
How do I find it?
You most likely have a septic system if:
- You are on well water.
- The water line coming into your house does not have a meter.
- Your neighbors have a septic system.
- You live in a rural area.
You can find your septic system by:
- Looking at the “as built” drawing for your home’s septic system, which you can request from your local (e.g., town, county, or state) health department’s records.
- Checking your yard for inspection caps, lids, or manhole covers.
- Working with a septic system service provider, who can help locate the system.
- Asking the seller or realtor.
How does a septic system work?
All water runs out of your house from one main drainage pipe into a septic tank. The septic tank is a buried, water-tight container. Its job is to hold the wastewater long enough for solids to settle to the bottom (sludge) while the fats, oil and grease float to the top (scum). For conventional septic systems, liquid wastewater exits the tank and is spread evenly throughout the drainfield, usually through a distribution box.
Systems with more advanced treatment may have an additional component between the septic tank and drainfield. Once in the drainfield, the wastewater percolates into the soil, which reclaims the water for future reuse by naturally removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and some nutrients. This process may vary based on the site conditions of your property (e.g., soil type, proximity to water).
A septic system service provider and your septic system’s “as built” drawings will be able to tell you what type of system is on the property.
How can I be sure that my septic system is working correctly?
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you will make, so you want to avoid any surprises after you purchase the home. Just like your furnace, the septic system is expensive to repair or replace so you want it to be in good condition when you buy the home. Have the system inspected by a septic system service provider before you purchase a home. Inspections may be required by your local or state government or by your mortgage lender. Inspection results can help you decide if the home is right for you.
What should happen during a septic system inspection?
The inspector will check for the following:
- Pumping and maintenance records
- The age of the septic system
- Sludge levels and scum thickness in the tank
- Signs of leakage, such as low water levels in the tank
- Signs of backup, such as staining in the tank above the outlet pipe
- Integrity of the tank, inlet, and outlet pipes
- The drainfield, for signs of system failure like standing water
- The distribution box, to make sure drain lines are receiving equal flow
- Available records, to ensure the system complies with local regulations regarding function and location
Signs of a septic system malfunction
There are a few signs of a septic system malfunction. If you discover any of these warning signs, call a septic system service provider immediately. One call could save you thousands of dollars!
- Wastewater backing up or gurgling into household drains
- A strong odor around the septic tank or drainfield
- Bright green, spongy grass appearing on the drainfield
Septic System Care and Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners
1. Know Your Septic System’s Components
Understanding how your septic system works is key. It generally consists of a septic tank, where solids settle, and a drain field that allows liquid waste to filter back into the soil. Keep an eye on both to ensure they function properly.
2. Schedule Regular Septic Inspections
Having your septic system inspected every 3-5 years by a professional ensures that it’s in good working order. Early detection of potential issues can save you from costly repairs and emergency septic repairs in the future.
3. Avoid Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items
Do not flush items like wipes, diapers, or feminine products. These can clog the system and cause backups, leading to costly repairs or even emergency sewer and water services.
4. Watch What You Pour Down the Drain
Chemicals, grease, and oils can damage the septic tank and contaminate the surrounding soil. Make sure to dispose of these materials safely.
5. Use Water Wisely
Overloading your septic system with excess water can cause it to malfunction. Use water-saving appliances and be mindful of your daily water use, especially if you have a larger household.
6. Protect Your Drain Field
Your drain field should be kept clear of trees, shrubs, or heavy machinery. Planting roots can interfere with the system’s ability to filter waste, potentially leading to costly emergency septic repairs.
7. Be Cautious With Landscaping
Avoid adding large amounts of mulch or compost near the septic area. This can cause the ground to become too soft and could damage the pipes.
8. Know the Warning Signs of Failure
Some common warning signs of a failing septic system include slow drains, foul odors, and pooling water around your drain field. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to call for emergency septic repairs.
9. Plan for Emergency Repairs
In the event that your septic system or other plumbing components fail completely, Kalamazoo Excavation provides emergency services to repair or replace your system.
10. Work With a Reputable Business
When choosing a professional for your septic system needs, working with a reputable business like Kalamazoo Excavation ensures you’re getting top-quality work. We bring unmatched dedication and professionalism to every project.
Learn more!
Download this handy New Homebuyer’s Guide to Septic Systems from the EPA.
By understanding your septic system and taking proactive steps to maintain it, you’re not just protecting your home but also safeguarding your investment. Kalamazoo Excavation is here to provide you with expert septic installs, emergency septic repairs, and more.
Need Expert Septic Installation or Repairs?
At Kalamazoo Excavation, we’re proud to be a veteran-owned business offering reliable septic system services. Whether you need septic installation, emergency septic repairs, or regular maintenance, our team of experts is here to provide you with high-quality service. Protect your investment today by choosing a team that understands the importance of precision and dedication in every project.
Contact us now to schedule your septic inspection or for more information on our services. Call us at (269) 888-1195 or visit kalamazooexcavation.com.
About Kalamazoo Excavation
Kalamazoo Excavation is a veteran-owned business offering full-service excavation services for both residential and commercial projects. Specializing in septic installation, septic repairs, water and sewer hookups, demos, driveways, new construction digs, and more, we are committed to providing 5-star service with unmatched professionalism and dedication. Trust our veteran team to take care of your excavation needs with precision and care.