Septic System Repair
Introduction
The septic system is one of the most important components of your home. It’s also one of the least understood. If you’ve ever wondered how to repair a septic tank or drainfield, then this guide will help. In it, we will walk you through identifying what is wrong with your system and going over some simple steps to repair it.
A septic system is a major investment, so it pays to do whatever you can to keep it in good working order.
A septic system is a major investment, so it pays to do whatever you can to keep it in good working order. Unfortunately, your septic system is not designed to last forever. The average lifespan of a standard septic tank is about 15 – 20 years, and after that point, you will typically need to replace the whole thing.
If you do not want to spend thousands of dollars on an entirely new system (or if you do not have the space for one), there are still some things that can be done to prolong your old one and avoid breaking down completely. Aero-Stream has a low-cost solution to repair your drainfield that is guaranteed.
If your septic system is broken, there is no need to panic.
If your septic system is broken, there is no need to panic. Just like any other system in your house, septic tanks and drain fields can break down over time.
While it is great to know what to do when this happens, it is equally important to understand why this happens in the first place. When the tank fills with wastewater (the liquid that leaves your home through drains), it separates into two layers: sludge at the bottom and scum on top (a mixture of grease and food particles). These layers settle into distinct phases due to their different densities; when this happens in an overloaded tank or if there is a lack of “aeration” (when air passes through water). Bacteria will eventually begin breaking down these solids—which can cause odors if they’re not removed regularly by cleaning out filters regularly—and produce gases like methane as part of the biodegradation process.
Only about 40% of the organic material is digested in the septic tank. The balance of 60% of the work is completed in the drainfield by anaerobic bacteria. These anaerobic bacteria create a protective slimy coating. The combination of the anaerobic bacteria and its slimy coating is called the bio-mat. Over time the bio-mat matures and clogs the soil pores so the wastewater cannot flow through it. This causes backups in the tank, pooling wastewater above the drainfield or above the tank. Aero-Stream patented restoration process will reverse the aging by eliminating the bio-mat and allow the system to work like new again.
The first step in repairing a septic system is identifying the problem.
Identifying the problem that is causing the septic system not to work properly can be tricky. The first step in repairing your septic system is identifying what exactly is going on. If you notice any of these signs, it could mean that there is a problem with your septic system, and you should contact Aero-Stream to help identify where the issue lies:
- Leaks or odors coming from under the ground or around your home
- Backup of wastewater coming out into drains, toilets, and laundry tubs
If you are unsure if this is an issue with your home’s plumbing or septic system, call for help from someone who knows what they are doing!
Next, decide whether you want to hire a professional or make the repairs yourself.
Now that you know what is wrong with the system, it is time to decide whether to hire a pro or make the repairs yourself. If you are going to do it yourself, be prepared by knowing what tools and supplies you will need and where your septic tank is located (so you can get at it easily). Our knowledgeable staff of septic experts can guide you through the repair so you can do the work yourself and save tens-of-thousands of dollars.
If you are going to make a repair on your own, you will need to understand how your septic system works before planning.
If you are going to make a repair on your own, you will need to understand how your septic system works before making a plan. You will also need to know where your septic tank is located and what supplies and tools you will need. Call our experts and we will guide you through the process.
You will also need to know where your septic tank is located before beginning any work on it.
You will also need to know where your septic tank is located before beginning any work on it. There are several ways you can find the location of your septic tank:
- Look at a property map of your home or property. If you have an aerial view of the property, you may be able to see where the tanks are located based on the surface area, they occupy in relation to other structures such as buildings and water features like swimming pools and ponds.
- Ask a local property inspector or septic system service company for help locating the tank(s).
- Use a sewer scope to look for pipes leading into or away from drain fields near areas that seem candidates for being a septic tank (e.g., areas close enough together that could serve as wastewater treatment plants in groups). You may need someone who knows how this works better than you do so they can guide you through each step—it’s not something that most people would think about doing themselves!
After assessing what needs to be done, determine what supplies and tools you’ll need.
- Tools
- Supplies
- Safety equipment
- Gloves that you don’t mind getting dirty or stained (such as rubber gloves), safety glasses or goggles, safety boots, and face shield if necessary
Do not drive over your septic tank cover with heavy vehicles after it has been repaired or replaced.
Do not drive over your septic tank cover with heavy vehicles after it has been repaired or replaced. A new cover will be more resilient than the original and may bend under a vehicle’s weight, but it can still be damaged.
Conclusion
With this guide and some care, you can repair a broken septic tank or drainfield by yourself. If you have been through all the steps above and still do, not feel comfortable with the repair job, it is best to call Aero-Stream for free technical support.
