Frequently Asked Questions
About Aerobic Septic Systems
1. Do I have to have a maintenance contract?
Yes, it is a Collin County law that you must keep a valid maintenance contract in effect at all times. Operating your aerobic septic system without a valid contract could result in fines up to $500 per offense with each day being a new offense.
2. Is there a maintenance contract that will cover everthing?
Yes! We offer 3 levels of service. Our service ranges from a basic minimum coverage to an all inclusive coverage.
3. What do you inspect on a maintenance visit?
A complete 16 point inspection is don on your septic system at each maintenace visit to ensure proper operation. All your filters and screens are cleaned as needed. A report of your septic systems' performance is left on your door upon completion to inform you of your septic system's operation.
4. How do I know if my septic inspection is being performed?
Your maintenance company should be signing a sticker in your control box and leaving a door hanger to let you know they have inspected your system. If these things are being done but you still suspect that your inspection is not being completed properly, place a tiny rock on your septic tank lid that will have to be removed for a proper inspection. This will ensure that you know you are getting the service you deserve.
5. Is my septic system supposed to run all the time?
Yes, your aerobic system is designed to run on a continual basis. If your air pump is not running contact Septic Solutions.
6 If my septic system runs continually, will I have a large electric bill?
No, an aerobic septic system pulls about the same amount of electricity as a 100 watt incandesent light blub.
7. Is my septic system supposed to be making a noise?
Your air pump will make a continual humming noise. However, if you are hearing a loud obnoxious buzzing noise; your septic alarm is on. Check your breakers to ensure power is getting to your septic system. If your breakers have not been tripped, contact Septic Solutions immediately.
8. Why does my aerobic system smell?
Aerobic systems have a unique smell that some people are more sensitive to than others. If you are experiencing a sewage or urine smell, contact Septic Solutions.
9. If I have an odor inside my home, ist that septic related?
Septic odors inside the home are usually a result of plumbing issues.
10. What can I do if my neighbor's septic system stinks?
If you have a neighbor with a stinky septic and they show no intention or concern about fixing the problem, you can make an anonymous complaint to your Health Department / Development Services.
11. What do I do if an alarm and/or alarm light comes on?
Check your breakers to ensure power is getting to your septic system. If your breakers have not been tripped, contact Septic Solutions immediately.
12 Should my alarm and sprinklers activate continually during and/or after rain?
Most septic systems take on ground water when it rains. This can cause your water level to rise which will activate your high water alarm and spray heads. After it stops raining, most septic systems will correct themselves. If not, call Septic Solutions immediately.
13. How do I mute my alarm?
There should be a button marked in your control box to mute the alarm. Remember to un-mute your alarm once your septic problem is corrected.
14. How often should I have to replace parts?
Parts replacement varies depending on what brand of system you may have, as well as how well your septic is maintained. Some aerobic brands require part replacements every year. Keeping ants/rodents away from your septic will prolong the life of your components. If parts replacement is something that you consider a hassle or inconvience, consider signing up for our Gold Service Plan.
15. Why are the air pump and water pump so expensive?
The pumps are high quality, precision parts. They are manufactured and designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions for an extensive life span.
16. What should I do if I'm purchasing a home with a septic system?
When purchasing a home with a septic system it is recommended that you request to have the septic system cleaned and inspected. Cleaning will start you out fresh and inspecting the septic will ensure that you know your septic system is in good condition when you move in. If the system is not up to code or performing well, the inspection will give you the opportunity to require proper repairs prior to closing on the house. To schedule your cleaning and inspection call Septic Solutions today.
17. Is the water safe?
If the chlorine is being correctly maintained and your system is functioning properly, the water supply spraying onto your lawn is designed to be safe for children and pets to walk on. Standing water should never be drunk by humans or pets.
18. Do I have to add chlorine?
Yes, it is a law that you must maintain chlorine in an aerobic septic system at all times. Violators are subject to fines of up to $2,500 per offense with each day being a new offense.
19. Where can I purchase chlorine?
Chlorine can be purchsed at Home Depot or Lowe's in the plumbing department. However, you can also purchase chlorine at the Septic Solutions office or service van. Purchasing chlorine from Septic Solutions will save you approximately $10 versus the regular retail price charged by the home improvement stores!
20. Where do I add chlorine?
Chlorine locations will vary depending on the brand of aerobic system you have. Typically, there is a 2 3/4" diameter pipe with a grate. Usually, the pipe is sticking up out of the ground by your tank lids or inside the last lid of your system. If you are having trouble locating your chlorinator pipe, contact Septic Solutions to speak to a technician for the specific location of your system's chlorinator.
21. How much chlorine am I supposed to add?
The general rule is 1-2 tablets per person per week. This will vary for each household depending on the size of your family and amount of water usage.
22. Do I have to use tablets or is there a different method?
There is another method of adding chlorine to your septic system. If you have the proper Smart-Chlor bleach injection system installed, you can use regular household bleach.
23. Is there a difference between a dripper and a Smart-Chlor?
Yes, a dripper is usually a homemade device that drips steadily much like an I.V. drip. A Smart-Chlor is plumbed into your water pump and designed to dose the water each time your water pump activates. this option eliminates unnecessary chlorine usage and regulates your septic system chlorine properly.
24. How much maintenance is required from me with a Smart-Chlor?
The Smart-Chlor is virtually maintenance free! It is designed to hold up to 6 gallons of regualar household bleach. Pour a gallon or two in every 2-3 months and be done! Not to mention it has a lifetime guarantee!
25. Will my sludge level break down by itself?
No the sludge compacted in the bottom of your septic tanks must be removed by professional septic cleaning.
26. How do I know when my septic is ready to be cleaned out?
When your septic system's sludge level rises over 8", it is time to clean your septic system. Prolonging the cleaning past recommended time could result in septic failure.
27. Do aerobic septic systems have to be cleaned out?
All septic systems must be cleaned out every 3-5 years.
28. Is there a difference between pumping and cleaning the septic?
Yes. Pumping is simply removing water and some of the floating solids from your septic tanks. Cleaning is the processes of professionally removing all the water and compacted sludge that has accumulated in the bottom of the tanks.
29. How should I prepare for holidays and/or large gatherings?
When you are anticipating having a large number of people, cleaning your septic system prior to the event will avoid an embarassing septic system failure.
30. Are there certain things I can not put into the septic?
Most things are okay in moderation; however, you cannot put things like large amounts of chemicals, grease, etc. For a more detailed list of what should and should not go into your septic system, see Septic System Do's and Dont's.
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