Get matched with top septic tank pros in Sergeant Bluff, IA

To keep your septic tank healthy, be careful of what you flush and be conservative with water usage, as even flushing too much water down the drain can throw off the septic system’s delicate balance. Never flush anything but human waste and toilet paper down your toilet, and be sure to have the tank inspected and pumped every two to five years, depending on the size of your household and your water usage.

They can if they’re not installed correctly or if the caps or covers were dislodged by a lawn mower or other yard equipment. This is why it pays to hire a reputable septic tank company that’s experienced in septic tank installation and maintenance. You should also check caps and covers often to see that they’re in place and take measures to tighten or secure them, provided it is safe to do so.

A septic system can fail for various reasons, and most commonly, excessive water use or sudden surges in wastewater can overwhelm the system's capacity. Neglecting regular maintenance, like tank pumping and inspections, can also lead to clogs, leaks, and eventual breakdowns. Other issues that lead to failure include age-related wear and tear, root infiltration, improper disposal of non-biodegradable materials or chemicals into the system, unsuitable soil conditions, physical damage, and even environmental factors like flooding or soil erosion.

If your well pump is running continuously (meaning without turning off or stopping), it's a sign that your well pump is starting to break down. The length of time your well pump should cycle is dependent on many factors, like the tank size, pressure setting, and even the amount of water in your well. Generally, your well pump should cycle, or go from running to not running every few minutes.