Get matched with top septic tank pros in Ashdown, AR

Although cesspits may be necessary depending on your main sewage system access or nearby soil quality, they carry a few drawbacks. Cesspools require regular emptying and have relatively high maintenance and pumping costs. Certain areas also disallow the use of cesspools and may require you to cover the cost of existing cesspools to be converted into septic tanks.

The purpose of a septic tank is to allow solid wastes to separate out of the wastewater using time, gravity, and other natural biological processes. If your septic tank is too small, it might be overwhelmed by solid waste and unable to accomplish this task—and if it’s far too large, there won’t be enough liquid in the tank to nurture the necessary bacteria to aid in the breakdown process.

Bladder and diaphragm well pressure tanks are usually pre-charged at the factory. Even so, it’s important to check the air pressure in the tank using a tire pressure gauge on the relief valve. The instruction manual usually calls for 28 psi. Use a hand pump to add more air or release some air from the tank to reach the desired number. Check the pressure periodically to see if you need to add more air to the tank.

The best way to keep a septic tank clean is to hire a local septic tank cleaner to inspect and pump the septic tank every three to five years. Be sure to only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet, and don’t pour grease, oil, fats, coffee grounds, or food scraps into your drains.