Category: Septic Drainfield

Be SepticSmart: Protect Your Drainfield

Septic Drainfield: Tips for Septic System Care

Without paying close attention to protecting your drainfield, your septic system could fail – costing you a lot of money. Your drainfield is the component of your septic system that removes contaminants from the liquid coming out of you septic tank. If your drainfield fails, your septic system is contaminating the area and possibly your water supply.

Septic Maintenance Plan

DRAINFIELD: THE BASICS

What is a drainfield? Septic drainfields, are also called leach fields or leach drains, and are subsurface wastewater disposal facilities used to remove contaminants and impurities from the liquid that emerges after anaerobic digestion in a septic tank.

DOS AND DONTS OF DRAINFIELD MAINTENANCE FOR A HEALTHY SEPTIC SYSTEM

The drainfield is a vital part of your septic system. Having the right landscaping on and around your system is important, as tree and shrubbery roots can grow into the drain lines. Also, other heavy items like cars and livestock can break drain lines. Strong roots and heavy items can cause the drainfield to fail. And if the drainfield fails, your system fails.

There are several resources available for septic system owners on the EPA website.  This post is about drainfield maintenance and things to avoid doing near your drainfield. If you’re a first-time septic system owner you may consider using these one-pagers to print out and have handy around the house or in the garage – as a reminder.

SHIELD YOUR FIELD (PROTECT YOUR DRAINFIELD)

DO: Divert rain and surface water away and avoid parking vehicles and planting trees on your drainfield.

DRAINFIELD DO’S and DON’TS

DON’T

• Plant a vegetable garden on or near the drainfield.
• Put plastic sheets, bark, gravel or other fill over the drainfield.
• Reshape or fill the ground surface over the drainfield and reserve area. However, just adding topsoil is generally OK if it isn’t more than a couple inches.
• Make ponds on or near the septic system and the reserve area.

DO:

• Plant grass or keep existing native vegetation. These are the best covers for your drainfield.
• Direct all surface drainage away from the septic system.
• Use shallow-rooted plants (see plant list above). Tree and shrub roots can grow into the drainlines, clogging and breaking them.
• Avoid water-loving plants and trees.
• Make sure the tank lid is secure.

CLEAR SEPTIC AREA OF:

Here are some tips to keep your drainfield out of harm’s way.
Locate your septic tank and drainfield. Then make sure the area is clear of:
• Underground sprinkler lines
• Decks and patios
• Sports courts
• Storage sheds
• Swing sets
• Sand boxes
• Driveways
• Vehicles
• Swimming pools

BEST PLANTS FOR YOUR DRAINFIELD

Plant native, drought-tolerant plants. These are some of the best for your septic system and its drainfield:

Grass:
• Fescue
• Lawn
• Ornamental grasses
• Wildflower meadow mixes

Groundcovers for sun:
• Bugleweed (Ajuga)
• Carpet heathers (Calluna Vulgaris)
• Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster)
• Ground ivy (Glechoma)
• Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos)
• Periwinkle (Vinca)

Groundcovers for shade:
• Bunchberry (Cornus)
• Chameleon (Houttuynia)
• Ferns
• Mosses
• Sweet woodruff (Galium Odoratum)
• Wild ginger (Asarum)
• Wintergreen (Gaultheria)

WHY SEPTIC SYSTEMS FAIL

Most septic systems malfunction because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems, those with a drainfield, are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables. These conditions can cause hydraulic failures and contamination of nearby water sources.

Failure to perform routine maintenance can cause solids in the tank to migrate into the drain field and clog the system. Regular maintenance, such as pumping out the septic tank, should be done at least every three to five years. (How Often to Pump My Septic Tank?) Also, being conservative with water and product use will reduce the load to the system and add to longevity. (SAVE MONEY ON SEPTIC EXPENSES BY MANAGING WATER USE)

For More Posts About Proper Care of Your Drainfield and Septic Tank:

For more tips on maintaining the health of your septic system, pumping, cleaning, inspecting or repairing your septic tank, call or text us at (330)391-5551.

24/7 EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area including Erie, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings.

Our goal is to be the Best Septic Services Company Near You!

We want to save you money by maintaining the health and extending the life and of your septic system. We aim to be the best septic services company near you. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.

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SepticSmart Week Emphasizes Importance of Septic System Maintenance

Septic System Maintenance Celebrated in SepticSmart Week

10-18% of septic systems in the US are failing, a statistic that is estimated to increase due to changes in the climate. With over 22 million households using septic systems, proper maintenance of septic systems are critical. Each year the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) holds SepticSmart Week, an annual event that occurs the third week of September. This year SepticSmart Week, September 18 – 22 in 2023. is celebrating its 11th Anniversary!

Septic Maintenance Plan

SEPTICSMART WEEK FOR SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

Due to the challenges of septic system maintenance across the country the EPA’s SepticSmart program provides materials to the public to be downloaded, distributed and shared by people, municipalities and septic services businesses like Double Flush. These materials are designed to make septic system maintenance easier to understand and explain to other people in your household in order to keep your septic system operating as designed. When septic systems fail, not only is it a big expense to replace a septic system (compared to maintaining) but a failed septic system causes major health concerns with potential sewage and bacteria entering the groundwater.

WHY IS PROPER SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE IMPORTANT?

It is important to properly maintain your septic tank and septic system for several reasons:

 1. Septic System Maintenance Saves You Money

Malfunctioning systems can cost $3,000-7,000 to repair or replace compared to maintenance costs of about $250-500 every 3-5 years.

 2. Properly Maintained Septic Systems Add Value to Your Home

Protect the value of your home by keeping your septic system properly maintained. Failed or malfunctioning septic systems can drastically reduce property values, add a level of difficulty to the sale of your home, and even pose a legal liability.

 3. Maintained Septic Systems Keep Your Family Safe

Properly maintaining your septic system keeps your water clean and safe. This is one way to keep your family’s drinking water pure, and reduces the risk of contaminating community, local, and regional waters.

 4. Healthy Septic Systems Keep the Environment Clean

Failing septic systems can harm the local ecosystem by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish.

Double Flush Handles Your Septic System Maintenance

Click on the image of SepticSmart Sam to print out a comprehensive flyer that you can keep in important areas of the house to remind your family about the Do’s and Don’t of Septic System Maintenance and Proper Care of Your Drainfield. Contact Double Flush Septic Services to set up a septic inspection, septic tank pumping, septic cleaning and an annual septic maintenance plan to take all the guesswork out of your septic tank maintenance. By investing just a few hundred dollars a year in preventative maintenance you can save yourself tens of thousands of dollars in repairs or replacement of a failing septic system.

Click through the materials below for more easy-to-understand tips for septic system maintenance reminders:

PROPER LANDSCAPING AND DRAINFIELD MAINTENANCE

The drainfield is a vital part of your septic system. Having the right landscaping on and around your system is important, as tree and shrubbery roots can grow into the drain lines. Also, other heavy items like cars and livestock can break drain lines. Strong roots and heavy items can cause the drainfield to fail. And if the drainfield fails, your system fails.

BE SEPTICSMART: PROTECT YOUR DRAINFIELD

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SEPTIC SYSTEMS

From explaining how a septic system works to how do you know if your septic system is not working properly, this flyer is a comprehensive, double-sided handout with a comprehensive look at septic system maintenance. Topics include:

  • Do I have a septic system and how to find it.
  • What can I do to maintain my system?
  • How do I know if my septic system is not working properly?
  • How does a septic system work?

DO’S AND DONT’S OF SEPTIC SYSTEMS

The simple do’s and don’ts of your septic system. Basics include these 5 tips made easy to remember:

  • Protect It and Inspect It
  • Think at the Sink
  • Don’t Overload the Commode
  • Shield Your Field
  • Don’t Strain Your Drain

SEPTIC TANKS: DO’S AND DON’TS OF YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM

For More Posts About Proper Care of Your Drainfield and Septic Tank:

For more tips on maintaining the health of your septic system, pumping, cleaning, inspecting or repairing your septic tank, call or text us at (330)391-5551.

24/7 EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area including Erie, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings.

Our goal is to be the Best Septic Services Company Near You!

We want to save you money by maintaining the health and extending the life and of your septic system. We aim to be the best septic services company near you. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.

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Understanding the Different Types of Septic Repairs

Understanding Different Types of Septic Repairs Can Save You Money

When it comes to our cars, we know (generally) the different types of repairs we may be facing. As a homeowner with a septic system, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of the different types of septic repairs. Pipe, pump, drain field, tank, and maintenance issues all require different repair methods and attention. Understanding the cause of the problem and the severity of the issue is vital when deciding on the best repair solution. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure a septic system runs efficiently, but when issues arise, contacting a professional septic service is vital to protect your health and the environment.

Septic Repairs

HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED SEPTIC REPAIRS?

If you’re a homeowner with a septic system, you know the importance of regular maintenance. However, even with the best upkeep, malfunctions and issues can arise. When these problems occur, it’s essential to have an understanding of the different types of septic repairs to determine the best course of action. In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the most common septic repairs and what you can expect when facing these issues.

Different Types of Septic Repairs

1. Septic Pipe Repairs:

Pipe issues are one of the most common problems homeowners with septic systems face. Root intrusion, cracks, and general wear and tear can cause pipes to leak or become clogged. To address these issues, a professional septic repair service will usually perform a pipe inspection to determine the extent of the problem. In the case of a clog, drain snaking or drain auguring can be used to remove buildup, while pipe replacement might be necessary if the damage is beyond repair.

2. Septic Pump Repairs:

The septic pump is responsible for moving wastewater from the tank to the drain field. A malfunctioning or broken pump can lead to overflows and back-ups. When faced with a pump problem, septic professionals will often inspect the tank and pump to determine if the issue is a clog or a more severe problem. Replacing the pump might be necessary if the issue is more than a simple clog.

3. Septic Drain Field Repairs:

The drain field is the area where wastewater is distributed into the soil. Drain field issues can cause standing water, foul odors, and an increase in pests. A failed drain field often results in wastewater backing up into your home, causing significant damage. To fix drain field issues, septic professionals may investigate the soil composition and possibly replace the piping or regrade the terrain to prevent any further damage.

4. Septic Tank Repairs:

Tank issues can arise from a variety of causes, from age to accidental damage. A leaking septic tank can cause significant environmental damage as well as pose a health hazard. Septic system professionals will inspect and assess the issue before recommending a solution. In some cases, repairs can be made to the tank, and in others, a tank replacement may be necessary.

5. Septic Maintenance Services:

Regular septic maintenance includes pumping the tank, inspecting the drainfield, and checking the overall system’s health. Scheduling regular maintenance with a septic maintenance plan can prevent many of the above problems from happening and ensure the system is running efficiently. Regular maintenance can also identify smaller issues before they become more significant, requiring costly repairs.

More Posts About Septic Tank Cleaning and Maintenance:

For more tips on maintaining the health of your septic system, pumping, cleaning, inspecting or repairing your septic tank, call or text us at (330)391-5551.

EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area including Erie, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings.

Striving to be the Best Septic Tank Cleaning Company Near You!

When it comes to septic maintenance our goal is to save you money by lengthening the life and maintaining the health of your septic system. We strive to be the best septic services, septic pumping and septic cleaning company. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.

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Maintaining a Healthy Drainfield: Tips and Tricks

Healthy drainfields are crucial for the overall functionality of your septic system!

A drainfield, also known as a leach field, is responsible for the final treatment of the wastewater that leaves your septic tank. It consists of a series of perforated pipes buried underground, allowing the effluent to percolate into the soil. However, if the drainfield becomes clogged or damaged, it can lead to backups, foul odors, and costly repairs. Don’t worry though, Double Flush has your back with tips and tricks to understand maintaining a healthy drainfield.

Preventative Maintenance

Trust Double Flush to provide the expert care!

Here are some tips and tricks to keep your drainfield in top condition:

Regular Pumping:

Schedule regular septic tank pumping with Double Flush Septic Services to prevent solids from clogging the drainfield. This ensures proper drainage and prevents backups.

Water Conservation:

Minimize water usage to prevent overloading the drainfield. Fix leaks promptly and avoid running multiple water-using appliances simultaneously.

Landscaping Maintenance:

Keep the grass above your drainfield area short to allow for better evaporation and prevent root intrusion into the pipes. Better yet, consider alternative landscaping to keep your drainfield area easily accessible. Ensure that you avoid parking over or storing any heavy objects on or near your drainfield. This causes soil compaction and potential issues with pipes!

Chemical Usage:

Use septic-safe cleaning products to avoid harming the beneficial bacteria in the septic system. These bacteria break down waste in the tank and help keep the drainfield healthy.

Double Flush = Expert Advice & Service

With our knowledge and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to keep your septic system running smoothly. Plus, we don’t charge for every little thing, so you can maintain your system without breaking the bank.

Maintaining a healthy drainfield is essential for the overall health of your septic system. By following these tips and choosing a reliable septic service like us here at Double Flush Septic Services, you can ensure your system functions properly for years to come.

More Posts About Septic Emergencies, Cleaning and Maintenance:

For more tips on maintaining the health of your septic system, pumping, cleaning, inspecting or repairing your septic tank, call or text us at (330)391-5551.

EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area including Erie, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings.

Striving to be the Best Septic Tank Cleaning Company Near You!

When it comes to septic maintenance our goal is to save you money by lengthening the life and maintaining the health of your septic system. We strive to be the best septic services, septic pumping and septic cleaning company. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.

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Septic System Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

Septic systems are an essential part of many homes…

However, septic systems can sometimes experience issues that require troubleshooting. Understanding these common problems and their solutions can help homeowners avoid costly repairs and maintain a healthy septic system. Having us here at Double Flush on speed dial will certainly ease any troubleshooting hiccups!

Preventative Maintenance

Trust Double Flush to provide the expert care!

Here are some of the most common septic system issues and how to address them:

Septic system issues can be a hassle, but with the right knowledge and maintenance, they can be easily managed. Double Flush Septic Services is your go-to choice for expert septic services in Medina County. Our knowledgeable team can help you troubleshoot any septic system problems and keep your system running smoothly. Plus, we pride themselves on providing upfront pricing and not charging for every little thing, so you can trust us to provide honest and reliable service.

Foul Odors:

If you notice a foul odor coming from your septic system, it could indicate a problem with the tank or drain field. This can be caused by a buildup of solid waste, a leak in the tank, or a clog in the drain field. To address this issue, it’s important to have your tank pumped regularly and inspect the system for any signs of damage.

Slow Drains:

Slow drains can be a sign of a clog in your plumbing system or a full septic tank. Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear any clogs in your pipes. If the problem persists, it may be time to give us a call to have your septic tank pumped.

Pooling Water:

Pooling water around your septic tank or drain field can indicate a leak or overflow in the system. This can lead to sewage backups and other serious issues. If you notice pooling water, contact us immediately to assess the situation.

Sewage Backup:

A sewage backup in your home is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. This can be caused by a clog in your plumbing system or a full septic tank. In either case, it’s important to contact a septic professional like us here at Double Flush to resolve the issue and prevent further damage.

Sump Pump Failure:

If your septic system relies on a sump pump to remove water from the tank, a failure of the pump can lead to flooding and other issues. Regular maintenance or even an inspection of your sump pump can help prevent this issue.

More Posts About Septic Emergencies, Cleaning and Maintenance:

For more tips on maintaining the health of your septic system, pumping, cleaning, inspecting or repairing your septic tank, call or text us at (330)391-5551.

EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area including Erie, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings.

Striving to be the Best Septic Tank Cleaning Company Near You!

When it comes to septic maintenance our goal is to save you money by lengthening the life and maintaining the health of your septic system. We strive to be the best septic services, septic pumping and septic cleaning company. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.

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