Dixie Septic makes it easy for homeowners to manage their septic systems.
Learn from Our Septic Tank Experts in Acworth, GA
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Dealing with septic systems can often feel overwhelming for homeowners who are unfamiliar with the intricacies involved. At Dixie Septic Tank Service, we prioritize transparency to eliminate any confusion you may have regarding your septic system. Our friendly and knowledgeable technicians are dedicated to simplifying septic services and are always available to answer your questions, providing the clarity you need to make informed decisions.
We’re here to help you every step of the way. Explore our Frequently Asked Questions, listed below for detailed insights.
North Georgia’s Top Septic Tank System FAQs
With guidance from our experienced team of septic system professionals, it’s easier than ever to keep your home in good working order. Read these FAQs for deeper insights and advanced maintenance tips.
If your home uses a septic system and your drains begin backing up, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage and health problems. Here are the steps you should follow if your septic system backs up:
- Shut Off Your Water
Turn off the water and immediately cease using toilets and any water sources in your home to prevent worsening the situation. - Contact Licensed Septic Specialists
Our septic contractors will quickly identify the cause of the backup and initiate the cleanup process effectively. - Clean the Affected Area Safely
Ensure that you and your family stay clear of contaminated areas until our professionals can perform a thorough and safe cleanup. - Notify Your Insurance Company
Check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for sewage backup to mitigate the costs related to cleanup. - Inspect and Resolve the Source of the Backup
Examine the plumbing system for cracks or clogs caused by tree roots, grease buildup, or improper items being flushed. - Schedule Regular Septic Tank Pumping
Regular maintenance and pumping of your septic tank can prevent future backups and ensure proper function.
Regular maintenance and inspections are the best way to prevent septic system backups. These backups can be hazardous to your health and harmful to your property, so staying ahead of any problems is the key to limiting damage and costly repairs or cleanup.
The use of enzymes in septic tanks is a surprisingly contentious topic. Supporters suggest incorporating them monthly to maintain a healthy system, while critics argue that they provide no significant benefits.
There is limited scientific evidence to support the addition of bacteria or enzymes to septic systems. In 2002, the U.S. EPA reported findings that biological additives do not appear to improve the performance of healthy septic tanks.
Professional maintenance is a much better and more cost-effective route to keep your system in good working order.
The septic tank plays a crucial role in managing wastewater from your home, as it collects not only sewage but also water from showers, bathtubs, and washing machines, which may carry harmful germs and pollutants.
Inside the tank, heavier solids settle at the bottom, creating a sludge layer, while lighter fats and greases rise to the top, forming a scum layer. The liquid in the middle, known as sewage effluent, is then allowed to flow out of the tank through an outlet baffle or sanitary tee, which effectively prevents solids from escaping into the drainage system.
The primary function of the septic tank is to retain these solids while facilitating the safe release of treated effluent into the drain field.
Unlike sewer systems that discharge treated wastewater into nearby water bodies, septic systems rely on the surrounding soil to effectively treat and dispose of sewage effluent. This means that a septic system is only viable in soils capable of adequately absorbing and purifying the effluent.
If installed in unsuitable soil, the effluent can leak onto the surface around the drain field, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. Furthermore, in areas where the soil cannot adequately absorb wastewater, toilets, and sinks may experience drainage issues. Even if the soil can absorb the effluent, inadequate treatment could result in contamination of the groundwater.
Determining if your property is appropriate for a septic system involves careful consideration of the soil types present. The North Georgia Health District features over 100 different soil varieties, many of which may not be suitable for septic installation, often found within just half an acre. To ensure proper evaluation, it’s essential to conduct a Level 3 soil study on the land.
If you’re thinking about buying a parcel for construction, it’s advisable to contact your county Environmental Health office for comprehensive soil assessment information. For assistance in this, contact Dixie Septic Tank Service. Our experienced team can guide you seamlessly through the evaluation and installation process.
Yes, but thankfully, our septic system experts are here to help you cut through the red tape! Call us today to discuss your project and get started with our professional guidance.
You should only ever flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Flushing anything else could clog your septic system and cause a failure, interrupting your life and resulting in expensive cleanup and repairs.
It’s crucial to be mindful of what goes down your drain to protect your septic system. To reduce the amount of extra waste that enters your tank, limit the use of garbage disposals, as they can significantly increase the volume of solids.
Avoid pouring cooking greases, oils, and fats down the drain, as these substances solidify in the septic tank and can lead to clogs in the inlet or outlet. Even grease combined with hot water can flow through the system and obstruct soil pores.
Additionally, household chemicals like pesticides, paints, solvents, disinfectants, and poisons should never be dumped into a septic system. These can harm the system’s natural beneficial microorganisms that break down waste, which may result in contamination of the groundwater.
Using a garbage disposal unit can indeed affect the maintenance needs of your septic system. When you grind food waste, it is not broken down as quickly as you might think, which can lead to a build-up of scum and sludge in the tank. Excess water and solids can overwhelm the system, pushing materials into the drain field, which increases the risk of clogs and thickens the biomat—the layer of bacteria that develops on the sides and bottom of the drain field trenches. If you choose to use a garbage disposal, be prepared to have your septic tank pumped more frequently to prevent issues.
Isolation distances between septic tanks and property lines are governed by local and state regulations. The local permitting authority, such as the health or environmental department, can provide the specific requirements that apply in your area.
Additionally, local zoning regulations may stipulate setbacks from buildings and property lines. Our team is available to evaluate your property and determine compliance with these regulations, ensuring your septic system is properly sited. Call us today to get started!
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