{"id":449,"date":"2024-08-17T16:29:57","date_gmt":"2024-08-17T21:29:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/?page_id=449"},"modified":"2024-08-17T16:35:35","modified_gmt":"2024-08-17T21:35:35","slug":"septic-services-asap-plumbing-and-septic-services-904-993-3433","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/?page_id=449","title":{"rendered":"SEPTIC SERVICES  ASAP PLUMBING AND SEPTIC SERVICES  904-993-3433"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>ASAP PLUMBING AND SEPTIC SERVICES \u00a0 \u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>CALL \u00a0 904-993-3433<\/strong><\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/septic_tank-600x443.jpg\" alt=\"Diagram of how a septic tank works\" width=\"600\" height=\"443\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The design and size of a septic system can vary widely, from within your neighborhood to across the country, due to a combination of factors. These factors include household size, soil type, site slope, lot size, proximity to sensitive water bodies, weather conditions, or even local regulations. Below are ten of the most common types of septic systems used, followed by illustrations and descriptions of each system. The list is not all-inclusive; there are many other types of septic systems.<\/p>\n<p>See below for illustrations and descriptions of various types of conventional and alternative septic systems. More detailed information on specific technologies can be found in Fact Sheets.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ASAP PLUMBING AND SEPTIC SERVICES \u00a0 \u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 CALL \u00a0 904-993-3433<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>SERVICES WE PROVIDE:<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC SERVICES<\/p>\n<p>PERCOLATION TESTS<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC LIDS<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC DRAWINGS<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC PERMITTING<\/p>\n<p>ANNUAL INSPECTIONS<\/p>\n<p>MOUND DRAIN FIELDS<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC PUMPS, GRINDER PUMPS<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC TANKS<\/p>\n<p>GREASE TRAPS<\/p>\n<p>GREASE TRAP FILTERS<\/p>\n<p>WELL PUMPS<\/p>\n<p>SUBMERSIBLE\u00a0 PUMPS\u00a0\u00a0 UNDERGROUND AND ABOVE GROUND<\/p>\n<p>CALL\u00a0 904-993-3433<\/p>\n<p>SEPTIC REPAIRS AND NEW CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ASAP PLUMBING AND SEPTIC SERVICES \u00a0 \u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 CALL \u00a0 904-993-3433<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"l-sidebar__main\">\n<article class=\"article\" lang=\"en\" role=\"article\">\n<h1 class=\"page-title\">Types of Septic Systems<\/h1>\n<div class=\"js-toggle-admin-content\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--small   u-align-right\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/system\/files\/styles\/small\/private\/images\/2022-08\/Types%20of%20Septic%20Systems-600x431.jpg?itok=CHg5Szfj\" sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 320px\" srcset=\"\/system\/files\/styles\/small\/private\/images\/2022-08\/Types%20of%20Septic%20Systems-600x431.jpg?itok=CHg5Szfj 320w, \/system\/files\/styles\/medium\/private\/images\/2022-08\/Types%20of%20Septic%20Systems-600x431.jpg?itok=J0hxzpUf 600w\" alt=\"Septic system installation\" width=\"320\" height=\"230\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<p>The design and size of a septic system can vary widely, from within your neighborhood to across the country, due to a combination of factors. These factors include household size, soil type, site slope, lot size, proximity to sensitive water bodies, weather conditions, or even local regulations. Below are ten of the most common types of septic systems used, followed by illustrations and descriptions of each system. The list is not all-inclusive; there are many other types of septic systems.<\/p>\n<p>See below for illustrations and descriptions of various types of conventional and alternative septic systems. More detailed information on specific technologies can be found in Fact Sheets.<\/p>\n<p>Conventional Systems:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#septictank\">Septic Tank<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#conventional\">Conventional System<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#chamber\">Chamber System<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Alternative Systems:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#dripdistribution\">Drip Distribution System<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#aerobic\">Aerobic Treatment Unit<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#mound\">Mound Systems<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#sand\">Recirculating Sand Filter System<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#evapotranspiration\">Evapotranspiration System<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#wetland\">Constructed Wetland System<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/types-septic-systems#cluster\">Cluster \/ Community System<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"septictank\" name=\"septictank\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Septic Tank<\/h2>\n<p>A septic tank is a buried, watertight tank designated and constructed to receive and partially treat raw domestic sanitary wastewater. Heavy solids settle to the bottom of the tank while greases and lighter solids float to the top. The solids stay in the tank while the wastewater is discharged to the drainfield for further treatment and dispersal.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/septic_tank-600x443.jpg\" alt=\"Diagram of how a septic tank works\" width=\"600\" height=\"443\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"conventional\" name=\"conventional\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Conventional System<\/h2>\n<p>A conventional decentralized wastewater treatment system consists of a septic tank and a trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration system, known as a drainfield. A conventional septic system is typically installed at a single-family home or small business.<\/p>\n<p>The gravel\/stone drainfield is a design that has existed for decades. The effluent is piped from the septic tank to a shallow underground trench of stone or gravel. A geofabric or similar material is then placed on top of the trench so sand, dirt, and other contaminants do not enter the clean stone.<\/p>\n<p>Effluent filters through the stone and is then further treated by microbes once it reaches the soil below the gravel\/stone trench.<\/p>\n<p>Gravel\/stone systems are relatively large in overall footprint and may not be suitable for all residential sites or conditions.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/conventional_septic_system-600x575.jpg\" alt=\"Diagram of conventional septic system\" width=\"600\" height=\"575\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"chamber\" name=\"chamber\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Chamber System<\/h2>\n<p>Gravelless drainfields have been widely used for over 30 years in many states and have become a conventional technology replacing gravel systems. They take many forms, including open-bottom chambers, fabric-wrapped pipe, and synthetic materials such as expanded polystyrene media. The gravelless systems can be manufactured with recycled materials and offer a significant savings in carbon footprint.<\/p>\n<p>An example of a gravelless system is the chamber system. The chamber system serves as an alternative design to the gravel\/stone system. The primary advantage of the chamber system is increased ease of delivery and construction. They are also well suited to areas with high groundwater tables, where the volume of influent to the septic system is variable (e.g., at a vacation home or seasonal inn), in an area where gravel is scarce, or in areas where other technologies such as plastic chambers are readily available.<\/p>\n<p>This type of system consists of a series of connected chambers. The area around and above the chambers is filled with soil. Pipes carry wastewater from the septic tank to the chambers. Inside the chambers, the wastewater comes into contact with the soil. Microbes on or near the soil treat the effluent.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/chamber_septic_system-600x592.jpg\" alt=\"Diagram of how a chamber septic system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"592\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"dripdistribution\" name=\"dripdistribution\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Drip Distribution System<\/h2>\n<p>The drip distribution system is a type of effluent dispersal that can be used in many types of drainfields. The main advantage of the drip distribution system is that no large mound of soil is needed as the drip laterals are inserted into the top 6 to 12 inches of soil. The disadvantage of the drip distribution system is that it requires a large dose tank after the septic tank to accommodate the timed dose delivery of wastewater to the drip absorption area. Additional components, such as electrical power, are necessary for this system, requiring an added expense and increased maintenance.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/drip_distribution_septic_system-600x581.jpg\" alt=\"Image of how a drip distribution septic system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"581\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"aerobic\" name=\"aerobic\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Aerobic Treatment Unit<\/h2>\n<p>Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) use many of the same processes as a municipal sewage plant, but on a smaller scale. An aerobic system injects oxygen into the treatment tank. The additional oxygen increases natural bacterial activity within the system that then provides additional treatment for nutrients in the effluent. Some aerobic systems may also have a pretreatment tank and a final treatment tank including disinfection to further reduce pathogen levels.<\/p>\n<p>The benefits of this system are that it can be used in homes with smaller lots, inadequate soil conditions, in areas where the water table is too high, or for homes close to a surface water body sensitive to contamination by nutrients contained in wastewater effluent. Regular life-time maintenance should be expected for ATUs.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/aerobic_treatment_unit-600x459.jpg\" alt=\"Image of how an aerobic treatment unit works\" width=\"600\" height=\"459\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"mound\" name=\"mound\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Mound Systems<\/h2>\n<p>Mound systems are an option in areas of shallow soil depth, high groundwater, or shallow bedrock. The constructed sand mound contains a drainfield trench. Effluent from the septic tank flows to a pump chamber where it is pumped to the mound in prescribed doses. Treatment of the effluent occurs as it discharges to the trench and filters through the sand, and then disperses into the native soil.<\/p>\n<p>While mound systems can be a good solution for certain soil conditions, they require a substantial amount of space and periodic maintenance.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/mound_septic_system-600x582.jpg\" alt=\"How a mound septic system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"582\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"sand\" name=\"sand\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Recirculating Sand Filter System<\/h2>\n<p>Sand filter systems can be constructed above or below ground. Effluent flows from the septic tank to a pump chamber. It is then pumped to the sand filter. The sand filter is often PVC-lined or a concrete box filled with a sand material. Effluent is pumped under low pressure through the pipes at the top of the filter. The effluent leaves the pipes and is treated as it filters through the sand. The treated wastewater is then discharged to the drainfield.<\/p>\n<p>Sand filters provide a high level of treatment for nutrients and are good for sites with high water tables or that are close to water bodies, but they are more expensive than a conventional septic system.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/sand_filter_septic_system-600x486.jpg\" alt=\"How a recirculating sand filter system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"486\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"evapotranspiration\" name=\"evapotranspiration\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Evapotranspiration System<\/h2>\n<p>Evapotranspiration systems have unique drainfields. The base of the evapotranspiration system drainfield is lined with a watertight material. After the effluent enters the drainfield, it evaporates into the air. Unlike other septic system designs, the effluent never filters to the soil and never reaches groundwater.<\/p>\n<p>Evapotranspiration systems are only useful in specific environmental conditions. The climate must be arid and have adequate heat and sunlight. These systems work well in shallow soil; however, they are at risk of failure if it rains or snows too much.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/evapotranspiration_bed_septic_system-600x488.jpg\" alt=\"How an evapotranspiration system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"488\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"wetland\" name=\"wetland\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Constructed Wetland System<\/h2>\n<p>A constructed wetland mimics the treatment processes that occur in natural wetlands. Wastewater flows from the septic tank and enters the wetland cell. The wastewater then passes through the media and is treated by microbes, plants, and other media that remove pathogens and nutrients. The wetland cell typically consists of an impermeable liner, and gravel and sand fill, along with the appropriate wetland plants, which must be able to survive in a perpetually saturated environment.<\/p>\n<p>A wetland system can work via either gravity flow or pressure distribution. As wastewater flows through the wetland, it may exit the wetland and flow into a drainfield for further wastewater treatment into the soil.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/constructed_wetland_septic_system-600x489.jpg\" alt=\"How a constructed wetland system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"489\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><a id=\"cluster\" name=\"cluster\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Cluster \/ Community System<\/h2>\n<p>A cluster (or community) decentralized wastewater treatment system is under some form of common ownership and collects wastewater from two or more dwellings or buildings. It conveys the wastewater to a treatment and dispersal system located on a suitable site near the dwellings or buildings. It is common to find cluster systems in places like rural subdivisions.<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--original is-centered\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2018-11\/cluster_septic_system-600x579.jpg\" alt=\"How a cluster \/ community system works\" width=\"600\" height=\"579\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"l-sidebar__main\">\n<article class=\"article\" lang=\"en\" role=\"article\">\n<h1 class=\"page-title\">Septic System Care and Maintenance<\/h1>\n<div class=\"js-toggle-admin-content\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--small   u-align-right\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/system\/files\/styles\/small\/private\/images\/2022-08\/cleaning%20out%20ss-large-WaterSupply-550x695.jpg?itok=ebJCsAIY\" sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 320px\" srcset=\"\/system\/files\/styles\/small\/private\/images\/2022-08\/cleaning%20out%20ss-large-WaterSupply-550x695.jpg?itok=ebJCsAIY 320w, \/system\/files\/styles\/medium\/private\/images\/2022-08\/cleaning%20out%20ss-large-WaterSupply-550x695.jpg?itok=l0pjj-Sn 550w\" alt=\"Cleaning out septic tank\" width=\"320\" height=\"404\" \/><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<p>One in five\u00a0U.S. homes have septic systems. Yours may be one of them.\u00a0If your septic system\u00a0is not properly maintained\u00a0you may be risking your family\u2019s health, hurting the environment, and flushing thousands of dollars down the drain.<\/p>\n<p>Learn how septic systems work and get simple, everyday tips on how to properly maintain them:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/node\/91737\/\">How to care for your septic system<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Septic system maintenance is not complicated, and it does not need to be expensive. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your system operating reliably.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/node\/91727\/\">Why maintain your septic system\u00a0<\/a>\u2013 Learn the benefits to keeping a properly maintained septic system.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/node\/91783\/\">How to resolve septic system malfunctions<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Learn why septic systems malfunction\u00a0and whom to contact if it happens to you.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/septic-system-impacts-water-sources\" data-entity-substitution=\"canonical\" data-entity-type=\"node\" data-entity-uuid=\"55652828-3737-471a-95be-8a3c3f60d166\">How septic systems impact water sources<\/a> &#8211; Learn how septic systems interact with drinking water wells or surface water bodies and how to keep them healthy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"l-sidebar__main\">\n<article class=\"article\" lang=\"en\" role=\"article\">\n<h1 class=\"page-title\">Why Maintain Your Septic System<\/h1>\n<div class=\"js-toggle-admin-content\">&nbsp;<\/div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<h2>Maintaining Your Septic System&#8230;<\/h2>\n<h3>Saves you money<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"figure  figure--small   u-align-right\">\n<div class=\"figure__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/system\/files\/styles\/small\/private\/images\/2022-08\/Why%20maintain%20your%20system-600x452.jpg?itok=W6it_4Hl\" sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) calc(100vw - 2rem), 320px\" srcset=\"\/system\/files\/styles\/small\/private\/images\/2022-08\/Why%20maintain%20your%20system-600x452.jpg?itok=W6it_4Hl 320w, \/system\/files\/styles\/medium\/private\/images\/2022-08\/Why%20maintain%20your%20system-600x452.jpg?itok=kju7TFyz 600w\" alt=\"Septic system maintaining systems\" width=\"320\" height=\"241\"><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div>Regular septic system maintenance fees of $250 to $500 every three to five years is a bargain compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a malfunctioning system, which can cost between $5,000 and $15,000 for a conventional system. Alternative systems can cost even more. The frequency of pumping required for each system depends on how many people live in the home and the size of the system.<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><span class=\"document\"> <a class=\"file\" href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2015-06\/documents\/mou-economics-paper-081712_1.pdf\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"> Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Can Be Cost Effective and Economical (pdf)<\/a> <span class=\"document__meta\">(3.2 MB) <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Protects your property value<\/h3>\n<div>An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value, and potentially can pose a costly legal liability.<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nowra.org\/Customer-Content\/www\/CMS\/files\/Resources\/Homeowner-Onsite-Systems-folder.pdf\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\">Buying or Selling a Home with an Onsite Wastewater System<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Keeps you and your neighbors healthy<\/h3>\n<div>Household wastewater contains disease causing bacteria and viruses and high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. If a septic system is well-maintained and working properly, it will remove most of these pollutants. Insufficiently treated sewage from septic systems can cause groundwater contamination, which can spread disease in humans and animals. Improperly treated sewage poses the risk of contaminating nearby surface waters, and potentially cause various infectious diseases in swimmers, from eye and ear infections to acute gastrointestinal illness and hepatitis.<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><span class=\"document\"> <a class=\"file\" href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2015-06\/documents\/mou-public-health-paper-081712_1.pdf\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"> Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Can Protect the Environment, Public Health, and Water Quality (pdf)<\/a> <span class=\"document__meta\">(1.9 MB) <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Protects the environment<\/h3>\n<div>More than four billion gallons of wastewater are dispersed below the ground\u2019s surface every day. Ground water contaminated by poorly or untreated household wastewater poses dangers to drinking water and to the environment. Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals toxic to local waterways. When these pollutants are released into the ground, they eventually enter streams, rivers, lakes, and more, harming local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. Learn more about how septic systems can help support greener, more sustainable communities.<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><span class=\"document\"> <a class=\"file\" href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2015-06\/documents\/mou-green-paper-081712-v2_1.pdf\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"> Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Can Be Green and Sustainable (pdf)<\/a> <span class=\"document__meta\">(2.7 MB) <\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr>\n<h2><a id=\"maintaining\" name=\"maintaining\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\"><\/a>Frequent Questions on Maintaining Septic Systems<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Who is responsible for maintaining septic systems?<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>The owner of the system (i.e., the homeowner, property owner, homeowner\u2019s association, or other responsible management entity) is responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and upkeep of the system, including repairs or replacement. The system users (i.e., occupants, tenants) are responsible for the proper use of the system, such as what materials go down the drain, how much water is used, etc.<\/li>\n<li>EPA developed the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/new-homebuyers-brochure-and-guide-septic-systems\" data-entity-substitution=\"canonical\" data-entity-type=\"node\" data-entity-uuid=\"c4b4f624-c56d-4155-a5f0-84916c87b0f6\">New Homebuyer&#8217;s Brochure and Guide to Septic Systems<\/a>&nbsp;to help new homeowners better understand maintaining their systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>How often should my septic tank be pumped?<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>In general, a septic tank should be inspected every 1 to&nbsp;3 years and pumped every 3 to&nbsp;5 years. The frequency of pumping the septic tank depends on the tank size, number of people in the household, habits of water use as well as the amount of solids accumulated in the tank. Some alternative systems that are more complex may require more frequent inspection or pumping. If you are unsure, ask your local septic system professional. A septic tank effluent filter may also require frequent maintenance and should be included in the inspection and maintenance activities. It is important to save your system\u2019s yearly schedule or maintenance records. See the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nowra.org\/Customer-Content\/www\/CMS\/files\/Resources\/Homeowner-Onsite-Systems-folder.pdf\" data-once=\"external-links protected-links\">National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association&#8217;s Guide and Record Keeping Folder example<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Spring is a great time to service your septic system. EPA developed a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/septic\/spring-postcard\" data-entity-substitution=\"canonical\" data-entity-type=\"node\" data-entity-uuid=\"cc897cdf-3d37-447f-a964-0d19b2c96841\">customizable postcard<\/a> as a reminder to homeowners on the importance of regular preventative system maintenance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>I\u2019ve never pumped my septic tank, is that a problem?<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>If you have not pumped your septic tank in several years, but do not seem to be having any problems, it may mean one of several things:\n<ul>\n<li>There is minimal water use in the home, and\/or the size of the septic tank and the biological activity maintains the solids at sustainable levels. This is rare but may occur when there are only one or two people in the home.<\/li>\n<li>The tank has a leak and is discharging wastewater into the ground instead of into the drainfield.<\/li>\n<li>The tank is full of solids, which are slowly migrating and may eventually clog the drainfield. This may increase the cost of pumping the tank and may require replacing the entire drainfield if it becomes clogged.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>What kind of additives are acceptable for use in my septic system?<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>EPA does not make recommendations on individual septic system products. Commercially available microbiological and enzyme additives are promoted to reduce sludge and scum accumulation in septic tanks. However, these additives are not necessary for a septic system to function properly when treating domestic wastewater. Use caution when using additives in your septic system as they may decrease the performance of septic drainfields, which treat the wastewater from the septic tank. In general, do not use additives made of organic solvents or strong alkali chemicals because they pose a potential threat to soil structure and groundwater.<\/li>\n<li>A variety of publications and organizations have assessed the impacts and effectiveness of different kinds of additives. EPA\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2015-06\/documents\/2004_07_07_septics_septic_2002_osdm_all.pdf\">Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual<\/a> has additional information. Further, some states and localities have state-specific rules and regulations regarding septic system additives. Contact your local permitting authority (i.e., local health or environmental department) for more guidance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><strong>How long does a septic system last?<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>The lifespan of a septic system depends on the material it is made of, the design, installation, service and exposure conditions, and maintenance of the system. Typically, a septic tank made of concrete may last 50 years or more, although older tanks may not be as well constructed as newer tanks. Tanks made from other materials, such as plastic may last a similar timeframe. See the manufacturer for projected lifespan estimates as well as strength, design, installation, and warranty information.<\/li>\n<li>If your septic system includes a pump, many pumps and controls will need to be replaced every 10 to&nbsp;20 years. If you have an advanced treatment unit, check with the manufacturer for estimates of lifespan and warranty information.<\/li>\n<li>If your drainfield is more than 25 to&nbsp;30 years old, the natural biomat that forms in the bottom of the trenches or beds can thicken and reduce the ability of the drainfield to properly discharge the wastewater into the ground. This can cause ponding in the drainfield, surfacing of untreated wastewater, or backing up into the septic tank and into the plumbing in the house.<\/li>\n<li>If your septic system is more than 25 to&nbsp;30 years old, start planning for an upgrade before you are in an emergency situation. It is likely your system is close to its useful lifespan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>CALL 904-993-3433\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>ASAP SEPTIC SERVICES<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>ASAP PLUMBING AND SEPTIC SERVICES \u00a0 \u00a0 CALL \u00a0 904-993-3433 The design and size of a septic system can vary widely, from within your neighborhood to across the country, due to a combination of factors. These factors include household size, soil type, site slope, lot size, proximity to sensitive water bodies, weather conditions, or even [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-449","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/449"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=449"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/449\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":455,"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/449\/revisions\/455"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/sdsvcs.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=449"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}