Myths

  1. Myth: Pumping the tank will take care of existing problems

Fact: Some problems can be corrected by pumping and cleaning. Likewise, broken tank baffles, crushed pipes, or pump failures can be identified during pumping.

  1. Myth: Household chemicals such as disinfectants, medicines, paint thinner are not harmful to a septic system

Fact: In moderation will not adversely affect it. Excessive amounts of these products can have a detrimental effect on the organisms.

  1. Myth: If you are not having problems don’t worry about a septic system.

Fact: A septic system needs to be maintained on a regular basis. If it is allowed to get to the “problem” stage, the system may already be at the point where costly repairs will be necessary.

  1. Myth: Advice has ranged from flushing a pound of yeast into the system to seeding with manure, or placing a dead cat in the septic tank.

Fact: This will not help develop the colony of bacteria in the tank any faster and the Health Department doesn’t recommend it.

  1. Myth: Will additives for old systems reduce or eliminate the need to pump a septic pump.

Fact: No additive has been proven effective in a controlled scientific study. Some of the solids in the tank are sand, grit, bits of plastic and no enzyme or bacteria can digest these. Adding enzymes or bacteria usually won’t cause a problem but they won’t help either. The solution is simple: pump your tank every 3-5 years. This solution is cheaper than buying additives.

  1. Myth: Pump every 3-5 years.

Fact: It varies, it is different for everyone. We will help you determine how often you need to pump. Lifestyle and size of family will help us determine how often you should pump.