FAQs

A septic system is a subsurface wastewater treatment and disposal system. In most circumstances, a septic system will serve only one individual house or building. The sewage from the house enters the system through a building sewer and is treated before being discharged into the ground.

Modern systems include a septic tank to retain solids, greases, and fats, and a disposal field to allow the liquid (effluent) to flow into the ground. Reach out today to learn more from septic tank service experts.

A sand mound is a raised disposal field used where there's a high-water table or shallow bedrock. It often includes a pump tank to elevate effluent to the mound. Contact us today to get started with the leading septic tank service in NC.

No, a properly installed sand mound, despite having a pump, is as reliable as a conventional septic system.

This is the simplest type of subsurface wastewater treatment and disposal system that a septic tank service can provide. In our experience, a cesspool is common for homes built before 1930. The system consists of a pit that has been constructed out of fieldstone or concrete block. Sewage enters the pit through the building sewer.

The liquid level in the pit rises while water is added. The water level drops as water flows out of the cesspool and into the surrounding soil. Cesspools are usually quite deep, and the pressure from the water column within the pit forces water through the openings into the soil.

As the experts in septic tank service, we can confidently recommend you pump your septic tank every two to three years under normal circumstances. If you have a large family, you will want to pump the septic tank more often to prevent solids from flowing out of the tank and fouling the disposal field.

It's important to seek regular septic tank service. According to Forbes, new septic tanks can last between 20 and 40 years with regular maintenance and proper usage. The primary function of the septic tank is to separate liquids from solids. Solids are retained in the tank after settling. Digestion of the solids occurs over time.

However, the rate of solids accumulation exceeds the rate of solids digestion. Additionally, not all of the solids are digestible. Therefore, the solids level does rise over several years. A septic tank must be pumped periodically to prevent the solids level from reaching the outlet baffle where they're carried over to the disposal field.

A septic system is designed to treat domestic sewage generated through routine wastewater-producing activities (i.e. bathing, dishwashing, toilet use, etc.) Do not dispose of harsh chemicals such as pesticides, paint, paint cleaners, solvents, degreasers, etc. in the septic system.

The liquid fraction of the wastewater is discharged into the ground. Some organic chemicals will flow untreated through the septic tank and the soil, thus contaminating the underlying groundwater. Do not dispose of condoms, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, or other solid wastes in a septic system. These solids are not digestible and reduce the capacity of the septic tank. Call us today to get started with Driggers Septic Tank Service.

When used at the recommended rate, household bleach does not produce a high enough residual concentration of chlorine to harm a septic system. If you have any other questions about septic systems or septic tank service, don't hesitate to reach out today.

Digestion of the solids that accumulate within the septic tank is a naturally occurring process. The microbes that drive the digestion process are present in raw sewage at a high enough concentration that supplemental products are not normally necessary. However, adding commercially available products will not harm your system, so you won't need to worry about the products your septic tank service uses. When you need a septic tank service, give us a call.

A baffle is a component that directs incoming sewage and prevents floating scum from escaping the tank. Our septic tank service is here to tell you everything you need to know about your septic system. Call us today to learn more.

Black water is the portion of sanitary sewage that is generated from toilets and urinals. Contact us today to learn more about septic tank service and septic systems.

Lush, moist grass may indicate a problem. Brown grass could mean insufficient topsoil.

If you've routinely pumped your tank every 2-3 years and have maintenance records, it's not necessary unless due for a pump-out during the sale period. However, pumping just before selling without a maintenance history might raise concerns. Consider a professional inspection and any necessary minor repairs for a smoother sale process.

Liquid detergents are preferable as powdered ones can settle out in the septic tank.

 Seek assistance from a reputable excavation contractor or an engineering firm experienced in diagnosing and fixing septic system issues.

Light vegetation like grass is fine, but avoid deep-rooted plants or trees as roots can damage the system.

Limited use is acceptable, but excessive disposal of food waste can overload the system and should be avoided.

Excessive rain can saturate the ground, potentially impacting the system's ability to properly disperse effluent. Monitor the area during heavy rainfall.

Signs of a malfunctioning system include unpleasant odors, slow drains, sewage backup, or wet spots in the drain field area.

It's best to avoid driving or parking over any part of the septic system to prevent damage to pipes and the tank.

Regular inspections, ensuring that the drain field is not overloaded, and avoiding the disposal of inappropriate materials can be managed by homeowners.

High water usage can overload the system. Using water-efficient appliances and fixtures can help maintain the system's efficiency.