Everything you need to know about Septic Inspection
Did you know that about 1 in five homes in the US has a septic system? As these houses are not directly connected to a public sewer system. Septic systems are a crucial part of the home that stores household waste materials that come from the kitchen, toilets, and showers. These systems also come in different capacities and functionalities to store household waste.
If you want to sell or buy a home with a septic system, is it compulsory to get a septic inspection? The answer is yes.
For this, a certified home inspection company like Inspect360 in Texas provides essential services to ensure your septic system is in good condition. In this blog, we will discuss the core things you need to know about your home’s septic system.
Remember, whether you are a seller or buyer, a professional septic inspector can identify potential issues early, that may cause significant problems in the future.
What is Septic Inspection?
A septic inspection is a comprehensive assessment of the system that stores all the household waste. It is a unique component which is buried in the ground at a distance from your home. It consists of two chambers, a primary and a secondary chamber.
All the waste material of the home (kitchen, toilets, and showers) of a home drains into the primary chamber. The solid material, which is called sludge, settles down at the bottom of the chamber, while the water with suspended particles moves toward the secondary chamber. A baffle wall separates these chambers. After moving into the secondary chamber, the water flows into the pipes set on layers of stones and soil. These pipes have small holes that allow water to drip out.
The solid material needs regular cleaning, so it is necessary to get a regular home inspection. A professional septic inspector identifies all the hidden problems in the sewer system and ensures it remains in good condition.
Common Reasons that Make Your Septic System Go Out of Order
After installing the septic system, you must make it functional. There are several reasons that can make your septic system go out of order:
Aging System
Most homes in Texas have an old septic system that cannot bear the current load capacity. With the passage of time, the system gets cracks and debris that can compromise the drainage efficiency of your septic system.
Lack of Maintenance
A septic system needs regular inspection because the sludge should be 33% of the total volume. When its volume increases, there is a maximum chance the water will come back to the home or spread on the street.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are a common problem with septic systems in Texas as they can cause cracks in the walls and restrict proper water flow.
How to know when to Get a Septic Inspection?
Below are the reasons why it’s time to get a septic inspection for your home:
Heavy Amount of Grass on the Manhole of the Septic System
The heavy grass on the septic system’s manhole is a sign of leakage. Therefore, the grass grows rapidly compared to other parts.
Gurgling Sounds
If you hear the gurgling sound in your septic system, there is a high chance of blockage, and the wastewater will not dispose off properly.
Water Backflow from Blockages
If wastewater returns to the sink or toilet instead of going ahead, there is a high chance the pipes are clogged or the septic system is blocked. When waste water returns to the home, it can cause different harmful diseases.
A Bad Odor in the Surrounding Areas
When you feel a bad odor in the vicinity of the septic system, you must contact a septic inspection company like Inspect360. The smell is due to the septic system’s leakage or blockage.
Life of a Septic System
Normally, the septic system has a lifespan of 20 to 40 years. But if you pay attention and get regular inspections, you can stay on top of it. A professional septic inspector will identify all the problems and prevent you from facing any major issues in the future.
The report and findings of a professional septic inspection make you comfortable and relaxed, ensuring that your septic system is in good condition.
Types of Septic Systems
There are various types of septic systems used in homes or business areas. Around 100 to 150 gallons of wastewater storage size is recommended for a one-bedroom home. If you have a three-bedroom home, then the wastewater will be 300 to 450 gallons per day. The condition of the soil plays an important role in the drainage of the water during the septic system installation. If you need to construct a septic tank, it must hold the waste for around three years.
Disadvantages of not Getting a Regular Septic Inspection
A septic tank requires more attention from homeowners. If you want your septic to stay operational, you need to get regular inspections. There are disadvantages of not paying attention to your septic system, including the following:
- Shortened life of the system
- Wastewater backflow
- Bad odor
- Health issues
- Costly repairs
- Environment damage
- Diminished property value
- Legal and compliance issues
- Drinking water contamination
Final Words
A septic tank is a crucial part of your home which stores human waste and used household water. That’s why it requires regular inspection, which helps to increase its lifespan. A certified septic inspector identifies all the hidden problems that cannot be seen by the naked eye. We strongly recommend getting in touch with a professional home inspection company like Inspect360 for a professional septic inspection.