How to Maintain a Septic System properly?

Facts and Common Misconceptions surrounding Septic Tanks and their care


By having a septic system you save yourself from paying sewage on your water bill. The money you save goes to the yearly maintenance. This comes out roughly the same amount so you won't be out any more money than if you were connected to the city's sewer system. This applies to both residential septic systems and commercial septic systems.
How to tell if you have a septic tank system?
If one does not know if they have an underground septic tank then these are the signs pointing to one. There will be no water meter on your waterline. There will be a $0 sewage charge on your water bill. You use well water (this is not a guarantee). Your neighbors use septic systems. It says on your building records or blueprints. 
Use only a knowledgeable and reputable septic company to inspect and drain your septic tank. This ensures that your system is kept in the best condition possible. You do not want to have to replace your septic tank prematurely, it is a very costly expense! Here at All Septic New Jersey, we recommend yearly septic inspections to make sure everything is in proper working order. We suggest pumping the tank every 3-5 years unless you have a high level of usage.


Some common misconceptions surrounding Septic Systems.


  • Pumping the tank will fix a clog or blockage in the pipes.

Pumping the tank does not fix any underlying septic issues. It may gain you a few days until the pipes back up again but without cleaning and fixing the pipes, they will fail again as soon as the tank refills. 

  • You need to pump the tank when it is full.

The septic tank is generally full to the level at which the outlet pipes are. This should be about 4 inches from the top. This is normal and means the tank is working properly.

  • Using cleaning agents will help the system work better.

Most cleaning agents will only harm the system by destroying the crucial bacteria which break down the organic materials in the effluent. This will create more sludge at the bottom of the tank thereby accelerating the need to pump out the tank. It can only also do damage to the pipes creating blockages or holes.​

Septic FAQS

Got questions regarding your septic system? We’ve got answers.

SEPTIC SYSTEM

  • How do I know if there is an issue with my septic system?

    Some of the signs of a septic problem are water pooling on your lawn, the drains in your house going down slower than usual, or a bad sewage smell. All of these point to a septic backup and you will need a septic company to come and do a septic repair.

  • What chemicals can I use that will help my septic system last longer?

    No chemicals or additives help your septic system. In fact, most chemicals are detrimental to the health of the septic system. 

  • What is the lifespan of a septic system?

    There are several factors that will come to play when calculating the lifespan of a septic system. How well the system was maintained, what material the septic tank is made froml, and when it was installed. A relatively new (under 20 years) septic system with a concrete septic tank and pvc lines should last a minimum of 50 years. 

  • What is the cost of a new septic system?

    There are many variables when calculating the cost of a new septic system. How large the house is will determine the size septic tank needed. What material the tank should be made from can effect the cost as well. Soil testing, permits, and excavation can bring up the cost as well as any other plumbing problem that may be hidden from the eye before opening up the ground. The average price of a brand new septic system is between $30,000-$50,000.

  • Is it ok to use a garbage disposal with my septic system?

    It is highly recommended NOT to use a garbage disposal when you own a septic system since it may not be able to break down all the particles, thereby leaving waste in your septic tank that will need to be pumped. 

  • When doing a septic inspection, what are they looking for?

    A septic inspection is just done to ensure that all parts of your septic system are in good working order. They will also check to see how much effluent is in your septic tank and if your septic tank needs to be pumped.

SEPTIC TANK

  • How often should I have my septic tank pumped?

    It is recommended you have your septic tank pumped every 2-4 years depending on your water usage. A septic pumping does not cost a lot and it helps preserve your septic system and make it last longer. 

  • Why is my septic tank full if I just had a septic pumping done?

    The goal of a septic tank pumping is to remove the effluent and sewage that can not be absorbed into the earth via the drain field. The fact that your septic tank is full does not point to a septic problem. 

  • What items are detrimental to my septic tank system?

    Bleach, cigarettes, paper towls, baby wipes, diapers, grease and oil, plastic, feminine hygiene products, and tissues are some items that can be harmful to your septic system. Those items that can not be broken down and reabsorbed into the earth may cause a breakdown in your septic system. 

  • Can I build or plant above my septic tank?

    It is not recommended to build anything on top of a septic tank or drain field. Only plants with shallow roots should be planted near a septic system. It is recommended you keep a 10-20 foot distance when planting vegetables. 

Need a Septic Pumping? Have a Septic backup? Need a Septic Inspection? For any Septic Services you can contact us.

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