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4 Signs of a Good Septic Installation Site

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 20:13:29 GMT

Choosing a good site for your new septic system depends on two critical factors. First, the site should be able to treat and absorb the septic waste. Secondly, the site's location should not allow the system to contaminate or affect other people, animals, or plants. Below are four specific signs that you have a good location for your septic system.

1. The Soil Has Good Percolation

The septic tank pretreats waste before the waste flows to the drain field. The drain field continues the waste treatment by allowing the waste to percolate into the soil at a reasonable rate. A soil percolation (perc) test is necessary to determine your site's percolation rate. The type of soil and soil particle sizes determine the percolation rate.

Waste should not percolate into the soil too fast since that might allow untreated waste to reach groundwater. Similarly, waste should not stay on the surface for too long; that would expose you to contaminated waste.

A septic contractor will execute a perc test before the septic design. The test involves digging a hole in the site and measuring how fast it absorbs water poured into it. A bad result doesn't necessarily mean you cannot have a septic system. For example, the contractor may excavate and backfill it with permeable materials with a good percolation rate.

2. The Land Has a Low Slope

The slope of the land determines water or waste flow. For example, the ideal case is where the ground gently slopes from the septic tank towards the drain field. Such a landscape allows septic waste to flow from the tank into the drain field with the force of gravity. Otherwise, you must pump the waste from the tank to the drain field.

A gentle slope also allows waste to stay on the drain field as it percolates. A drain field on a steep slope is not ideal because the waste might flow away before percolation. In addition, placing a drain field on a steep slope may allow surface water to sweep off the waste before absorption.

3. The Place Is Not a Wetland or in a Drainage Path

Soil water saturation also affects the waste absorption rate. If water already saturates the ground, waste from the tank won't find spaces between the soil to occupy and drain. The waste might stay on the surface for a long time, causing a health and environmental contamination risk. Therefore, many places do not allow septic installation on wetlands or areas with high water tables.

The same problem might arise if the drainage site sits on a path of a drainage path where floodwater usually follows. Your septic contractor may have a workaround if the area seasonally floods. For example, improved drainage around the site may help.

4. The Location Is Adequately Far From Other Structures

The site's distance from other structures or water bodies also matters. A good septic site should be adequately far from areas, things, or structures it might contaminate. Local building codes even specify specific clearance distances from:

Dwelling places, such as main houses
Wells
Ponds
Rivers
Wildlife habitats

The clearance distances are necessary to allow the drain field to absorb all waste before it can contaminate other areas. Septic contractors understand the technical details; your contractor will analyze the site and advise you on its suitability for septic installation.

Contact JT Sanitation to help you choose a good septic site that is compliant with all legal requirements. We can also modify your site and design and install a good system that fits your needs. Our technical expertise, experience over the years, and good reputation mean we consistently deliver professional septic services.

Benefits of Regular Septic Tank Cleaning

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 15:27:41 GMT

If the city sewage system isn't close to your residential property, you probably need to invest in a septic tank to treat your wastewater safely and avoid environmental pollution. These tanks can hold a lot of liquid and solid waste for long, but they get full.

Foul-smelling odors, flushing issues, pooling water, slow drainage, and sewage backups clearly show your septic tank is full. You'll need septic tank cleaning services to keep the property clean and safe when this happens.

During septic tank cleaning, the professionals pump out the solid and liquid waste and clean out the tank, giving it a fresh start. Discover the benefits you can get after cleaning your wastewater treatment tank.

Improved Plumbing Performance

When a septic tank is almost full, the wastewater you produce will often flow slower than usual. This problem can worsen over time, making it difficult to flush toilets or drain water from your bathroom and kitchen. Most homeowners usually assume the water drains slowly because of a clog, but that often isn't the case.

Flushing out the solid waste materials and wastewater from your septic tank once you notice the slow drain issue will usually ensure your sewage drainage system functions optimally. You can avoid issues like sewage backup, burst drainage pipes, or leaks that lead to wastewater flooding and foul smells. So, invest in septic tank cleaning regularly to avoid making your residence unlivable.

Good Health

Allowing raw sewage to flow through your backyard due to a septic system malfunction can expose your loved ones to health risks. For instance, the leaking or overflowing sewage contaminates the soil and grass where your kids and pets play. If you allow them to play in the yard, they'll have exposure to the bacteria in human waste. A rodent or insect infestation can also occur, causing harm to your family.

Prioritizing septic tank cleaning service can ensure your wastewater and sewage don't leak or overflow and pollute your outdoor space. This will keep your family and pets in good health and prevent rodent or insect activity.

Increased Property Value

If you intend to sell your residential property, ensure everything is in order. One of the things buyers might check as they assess a property is the availability and efficiency of a septic tank. Amost nobody wants to purchase a home and start dealing with issues like a leaking septic system, foul smells, or clogged drains and toilets. These problems reduce the property's value, so prioritize septic tank care to avoid putting off your potential buyers.

Septic tank cleaning should be part of your maintenance schedule because it promotes the efficiency of your sewage treatment system. If you have a functional septic system, buyers will likely be glad to pay the amount you ask to acquire the property.

Fresh Well Water

The septic tank holds your sewage in place and filters the effluent before discharging it to the surface. If you have a well and don't maintain your septic tank, you could contaminate the water. When solid and liquid waste overflow, bacteria and other harmful compounds will seep into the surface and get to your well water source, contaminating the underground water.

Cleaning your septic tank will prevent soil and underground water table pollution, ensuring the well water is safe for domestic use.

Longer-Lasting Septic Tank

Emptying your septic tank will usually eradicate the solid and liquid waste and allow the professionals to spot any issues in advance. The professionals will fix the problems right away, improving the efficiency of the septic tank and saving you money on costly repairs. An efficient septic tank lasts longer, giving you value for your money over the years. However, if you don't prioritize proper cleaning and care, you'll likely take some years off the tank's life.

If you reside in Lancaster, California, and need septic tank cleaning service, contact us at JT Sanitation. Our professionals will offer high-quality service to ensure your septic tank functions effectively for longer.

Mind These 4 Things When Disguising the Septic System

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 15:51:06 GMT

Septic drain systems are necessary for onsite waste management, but the system might affect your home's curb appeal. Many homeowners go to great lengths to disguise their septic systems and maintain their home's curb appeal. The right disguises may work, while the wrong ones might cause different complications.

Heed these warnings to ensure your septic disguises do not come with dangerous complications.

1. Avoid Septic Damage

Your attempts to disguise your septic system might damage the system you wish to hide. Below are some of the potential damages.

Compaction

Different hardscaping designs can hide your septic system, but they might also damage it. Whatever beautifications measures you plan, ensure they do not compact the septic drainfield. Discover some of the things you should not have on the septic drainfield:

Gazebos
Heavy machinery storage sheds

Compact drainfields do not absorb wastes as easily as non-compacted drainfields. Such a scenario would allow wastes to overflow the drainfield and contaminate the environment.

In addition, heavy objects can also damage mechanical parts of the system. For example, heavy machinery can shift soils and damage underground pipes.

Instead, use light objects to mask the septic system. For example, you can use things like:

Potted plants
Artificial rocks
Birdbaths
Movable rock gardens

These things are light and easily movable if you want to service the septic system.

Root Intrusion

Many people first think of landscaping to disguise their septic systems. However, landscaping requires careful planning to avoid tree root intrusion. Extensive tree roots can enter septic pipes in search of water and nutrients. Such roots then grow and block or damage the pipes.

Plants with shallow roots will not cause such damage. Native grasses and shrubbery are good examples. However, note that the grass will make septic maintenance, such as tank pumping, harder than usual. Avoid planting over the septic tank cover if you do not want the extra work.

Excavation or Digging

Anything involving excavation or digging the septic drainfield can damage underground pipes. For example, fence posts risk damaging buried septic components, so avoid fencing the septic drainfield.

2. Minimize Landscaping and Hardscaping Damage

Septic services or maintenance can damage your landscaping and hardscaping, depending on their designs. For example, you have to uproot plants every time you want to pump the tank or repair underground septic pipes. You might struggle to do that if you have beautiful and thriving plants.

A good alternative is to use portable hardscaping or landscaping. That way, you can relocate them during maintenance and replace them once the contractor is done.

3. Avoid Food Contamination

As mentioned above, plants with shallow roots make good disguises for septic systems. Many vegetable or edible plants fit this description, but that does not make them fit for the septic drainfield. The plants may disguise the system, but effluent from the system might contaminate them. Do not forget that the septic system has numerous microorganisms that cause diseases.

4. Avoid Infection Risk

Lastly, your disguise designs should not include children's areas or pets' housing. For example, you should not have a dog kennel or swing set in the area. Otherwise, you might expose your pets and children to dangerous germs in the septic effluent.

The germs can enter the body orally, as both children and pets put things in their mouths. The germs can also enter the body via broken skin or open wounds.

Involve a septic technician in your plans to ensure your attempts to disguise your septic system are safe. JT Sanitation has years of extensive experience in the septic industry. We install, service, and maintain septic systems. Contact us for a quote on all septic services you need.

What to Do If Your Septic System Fails

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 17:54:02 GMT

A septic system fails if it can no longer handle the waste it receives. The waste might back up to the house, flood the drainfield, or overflow and fill the ground around the tank. All of those scenarios are bad since they endanger your household and the environment. Below are some steps to take in case of septic system failure.

Minimize System Use

Avoid activities that send more load to the system if possible. Reduce the load if you cannot avoid them altogether. For example, space out your water use and ensure only the most necessary wastes go down the drain. That way, you avoid system overload, damage, and further environmental pollution.

Contact a Licensed Septic Contractor or the Local Health Department

The next step is to confirm the system's failure. The confirmation is necessary because a temporary system blockage can produce the same symptoms as septic system failure. The confirmation will also determine the extent of environmental pollution.

Call a licensed septic system contractor for confirmation. Do not rely on a non-professional diagnosis that might return false results. Alternatively, you can contact the local public health department.

Warn Others and Fence the Area

A failed septic system is dangerous in multiple ways. For example:

Septic effluent contains dangerous microorganisms that can cause infections if they contaminate food or enter your body via open wounds.
Septic gases, especially from the tank, are flammable and can cause explosions or fire outbreaks if exposed to flames.
You can fall into damaged or weak septic tanks, such as tanks with damaged lids.

Warn your household members and neighbors about your septic system's failure. If the area around the septic system or drainfield is accessible, fence it to reduce the risk of injuries.

Avoid DIY Solutions

The dangers above mean a failed septic system is not a good candidate for DIY solutions. Do not try to pump the system, clean the tank, clear blockages, or engage in other improvised solutions. In addition to being dangerous, your efforts are also unlikely to work. Wait for professional input from your septic contractor.

Diagnose the Extent and Cause of Failure

Your septic contractor will help you diagnose the problem. A diagnosis helps to identify the right solution and prevent similar problems.

For example, some people think they can pump the tank and rejuvenate a failed septic system. However, merely pumping the tank might not help if you do not resolve the problem that caused the tank to overflow in the first place. For example, pumping the tank will not help septic failure occasioned by drainfield compaction.

Fix the Problem

The solution will depend on the failure diagnosis. You may solve the problem without replacing the septic system depending on the damage, its cause, and its extent. Discover some solutions your contractor may suggest, depending on the circumstances:

Improve drainage around the drainfield to prevent flooding when it rains.
Replace a septic tank that is damaged beyond repair.
Pump air into a compacted drainfield to improve its ability to absorb water.
Replaced crushed installations, such as distribution boxes or pipes.

The contractor will advise you to relocate the drainfield if rejuvenation cannot help. Note that all solutions to a failed septic system require approval from the local authorities.

Contact JT Sanitation if you suspect problems with any part of your septic system. We will use our experience and expertise to get the system running again. We are happy to help with any septic system need you have and will answer any questions you want to discuss. Please let us know how we can assist you today with your septic system.

6 Ways to Prepare Your Septic System for Winter

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 22:25:25 GMT

With winter around the corner - and all the festivities - as a homeowner, you should think about your septic system and potential problems, such as freezing, that this season may present. Preparing your septic system for the colder weather keeps it in pristine condition and prevents costly problems and nasty surprises. Learn six ways to prepare your system for winter.

1. Schedule an Inspection

Typically, homeowners should have a septic professional inspect their septic system annually. This inspection is best scheduled before winter, preferably in autumn. The professional thoroughly examines your system to ensure it works optimally and detects any problems before they wreak havoc.

2. Pump Out

Although septic pumping should occur every three to five years, the household size, type of septic system, and amount of wastewater may increase the needed pumping frequency. Signs such as gurgling sounds, foul odors, and water backup may signal that you need septic pumping.

If your tank is due for pumping, ensure that you conduct it before winter. This ensures you get rid of any waste and greywater that can freeze when temperatures plummet. Moreover, you save yourself the hassle of digging into the frozen ground to access the tank.

3. Insulate the System

Like you, your septic system likes to keep warm during winter to stay functional and prevent problems. First, ensure that the septic tank lid is intact and devoid of cracks and leaks. A cracked cap may allow water and frost into the system and freeze the contents.

Second, invest in drainfield insulation. The simplest way to insulate your drainfield is to let the grass grow over it during the warmer months to retain heat and guard against freezing and associated damage. Alternatively, you can buy specially insulated blankets for the drainfield.

4. Limit Traffic Around the System

One of the essential winter maintenance tips for your septic system is to reduce activities around the septic tank and drainfield. Keep any motorized vehicles off of the ground above the system since they can force snow deeper into the soil and closer to your tank and drainfield, causing freezing problems. Also, avoid plowing snow that is over the drainfield and allow it to melt naturally.

5. Avoid Straining the System

With winter comes the holiday season that sees more guests visiting, which can overwhelm a septic system and cause issues. Luckily, you can ensure your system works effectively amidst the festivities in several ways.

Firstly, be cautious of what goes in the drain. Ensure you don't pour grease, fats, leftovers, and eggshells into the drain in the kitchen. Also, do not flush diapers, floss, feminine hygiene products, and cigarette butts in the toilet.

Secondly, maintenance goes a long way to prevent septic emergencies during the holiday rush. Hire a reputable septic professional to service your system before winter and get it ready for hosting.

6. Winterize When Away

Preparing the septic system for winter is not only for people who will use it; homeowners who will be away for the season also need to take certain precautions.

Start by shutting off the water supply from the main line, then draining all pipes and faucets to prevent freezing and cracking. Do not forget to drain appliances like the dishwasher and water heater and disconnect the hoses. You can use a septic-safe antifreeze for the pipes and drains.

If you intend to leave the furnace on in your absence, account for where its water drains. Consider diverting the water into a floor drain or bucket that does not end up in the septic system. This way, no water ends up in the septic system and freezes it.

Getting your septic system ready for winter keeps it operating optimally and increases its lifespan. Get in touch with JT Sanitation for affordable septic tank services in Lancaster, California. We offer high-quality septic tank repairs, installation, and maintenance services.

How to Tell When Your Main Sewer Line Is Clogged

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:34:09 GMT

Do you suspect you have a clogged sewer line? Oftentimes, sewer line issues happen slowly and may take a long time to cause any real trouble. However, once a blockage becomes too big, you can expect a myriad of issues.

Because raw sewage is a serious threat to human health, effective repairs and cleaning can be costly. In addition, water damage might be a whole other problem you may need to worry about. Avoid such messes if you keep a close eye on these early signs of a main sewer line clog.

1. Multiple Drain Backups

A typical home plumbing system comprises of two separate systems that work together to help you run your household. Some lines supply fresh water for use, while others remove wastewater from your house.

A clogged sewer line may not handle wastewater as effectively as you would expect. The blockage can significantly restrict the volume of wastewater through the sewer lines.

As a result, you are likely to notice multiple slow drains. Eventually, foul smells may start to come out of these drains, in addition to strange, gurgling sounds. Frequent backups in your sinks and toilets may also be a sign of a troubled sewer line.

Usually, large trees in your yard could be the likely reason for blocked sewer lines. Their roots can gradually make their way into your sewer lines and restrict the normal flow of wastewater. These roots trap solid waste and debris, which can create rather stubborn clogs in the sewer lines.

2. Unusually Lush Lawn

A blockage in your main sewer line could create lots of pressure inside the sewer pipes. Over time, the built-up pressure could cause cracks on these pipes. Effluent might start to leak through the cracks and further weaken your sewer system. Eventually, your sewer lines may collapse or get worse at doing their job.

You are likely to notice patches of lush, green grass near the leaky sewer lines. Because sewage contains natural nutrients and fertilizer, the grass nearest to the clog site may appear more vibrant than the rest of the foliage in your yard.

Still, the leak can become widespread and form puddles of raw sewage in your yard. Besides the foul smell from raw sewage, a sinkhole might develop near the break, further aggravating an already dangerous problem. Furthermore, the swampy conditions might encourage rodents and other pests to invade your home.

An in-depth video camera inspection by a sewer line expert can uncover the exact location of a blockage. Moreover, a thorough examination can still identify other hidden problems that may otherwise be difficult to see with your naked eye.

3. New Cracks in the Foundation 

Sewer line clogs can cause leaks in your main sewer line. Unfortunately, these leaks can wreak havoc on your home's foundation if they go undetected for too long. You may notice cracks along the foundation that seems to get worse over time. In addition, the water damage can create a sinkhole that can easily destroy your home's structural foundation.

A cracked foundation is a clear sign of widespread water damage that you should not ignore. Your home might develop a constant foul smell from harmful sewer gases as well. To avoid unexpected health hazards, contact a sewer line specialist as soon as you can. You may still have to repair your foundation to preserve your home's structural integrity.

Do not ignore any signs of trouble or try to perform sewer line repairs as a DIY project. Protect your system from clogs by setting up routine inspections with sewer experts like  JT Sanitation  instead. We look forward to hearing from you.

Ways to Increase the Life of Your Septic System

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 14:22:09 GMT

A septic system is a significant investment. According to HomeServe, they cost between $1,500 and $5,000. As such, you want it to serve you for as long as possible to achieve a return on your investment. The best way to prolong your septic system's lifespan is through proper care and maintenance. Learn some simple ways to get the most out of your system and avoid costly repairs and replacements.

Mind What Goes Down the Drain

Everything you dispose of in your drain - think toilet, sinks, and shower - ends up in your septic tank. What you flush can be the difference between a premature replacement and a system that serves you for decades. Subsequently, be cautious of what you flush in toilets. Flush only wastewater and tissue paper. Items like cigarette butts, wet wipes, sanitary products, and diapers will harm your septic tank.

Similarly, food waste, grease, eggshells, and coffee grounds should not go down a kitchen sink, as they hurt your plumbing and septic system. Also, avoid pouring oils, chemicals, bleaches, and disinfectants into your bathroom and utility sinks.

Schedule Septic Pumping

Among the best ways to extend your septic tank's life and prevent damage is to schedule pumping as required. Typically, you should pump your tank every three to five years, depending on your household size, amount of wastewater, and tank size.

You may wonder when to call in a septic professional for pumping. A tank not pumped in the last three years is a good candidate for pumping. Also, signs such as sewage backup, odours, pooling water, and very healthy grass on the septic system indicate the need for pumping.

Care for Your Tank and Drain Field

First, refrain from parking or driving heavy equipment over your septic system, including both the septic tank and drain field. Second, avoid planting trees and shrubs on your system. Their roots can damage your tank, pipes, and drain field. If you must plant something, choose grass with shallow roots.

Third, do not divert water, including rainwater, runoff, and sump pumps, into your drain field. Last, keep any structures such as sheds and outdoor storage off of the drain field. While a structure may seem lightweight, it can hurt your drain field significantly.

Reduce Water Consumption

Conserving water is good for both your septic system and your budget. Your tank gets less wastewater to handle, and you save on utility bills. Simple things such as taking shorter showers, turning off sinks when not in use, and repairing leaky faucets can go a long way to lessen water consumption. Also, low-flow water fixtures are more water-efficient than standard fixtures.

Notably, refrain from discharging vast amounts of water within a short time in your septic tank. It increases the probability of too much water making its way into the drain field and overwhelming it. So, rather than doing all your week's laundry one-off, do it in bits and protect your septic system.

Perform Inspections

Septic systems are often out of sight and thus out of mind, making it easy to forget inspections and maintenance. Most homeowners only think about their septic system when something is wrong. Perhaps you have slow drains, sewer smells in the house, or gurgling sounds. Nonetheless, this should never be the case.

Septic systems need inspections, at least annually, to function optimally and efficiently. Inspections are an inexpensive way to identify issues before they damage your system and require expensive repairs or even replacement. Septic inspections are not a DIY project, and you should let skilled and experienced professionals handle them.

Contact JT Sanitation for high-quality and reliable septic tank inspections, repair, and installation. We serve residential and commercial clients and take pride in our trained staff, quality services, and modern techniques.

How to Prevent Septic System Backflow and Flooding

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 20:09:13 GMT

Many factors could cause the backflow of waste into your home, including an overwhelmed septic tank, a failed drain field, a clogged pipe, or a crushed sewer. That's not something you want because you'd be exposing yourself to contaminated water, which could lead to health issues.

Follow these four tips below to ensure you don't have to deal with flooding inside your home.

Divert Rainwater From Your Septic Drain Field

A septic system comprises two essential components: the tank and the drain field. The tank receives wastewater from your home, including from the bathroom, kitchen, and washing areas, the drain field will release bio-waste from the tank after treatment into the soil.

During flooding season or when the rain from your gutters is too much, the drain field may be soggy and incapable of handling liquid waste. This saturation causes water from the tank to back up into your home. Moreover, during a flood, the sewer may get holes where waste escapes and contaminates water from the surrounding areas.

To prevent this from happening, you should divert all the collected rainwater somewhere else rather than the drain field. The Environmental Protection Agency also advises people to avoid parking or driving over the drain field and to be careful where they plant trees to keep the roots growing into the septic tank.

Install a Backflow Preventer Valve or a Backflow Alarm

The next thing you ought to do is install a backflow preventer valve, especially if you live in a flood-prone area. A backflow preventer valve is a device that you install where the water pipes exit; this way, water can't back up into your household pipes from your septic tank.

The valve only works in one direction, so the flapper will open up to allow greywater from your home into the tank, but it will close up the entry when waste flows back.

A backwater alarm is a device that will alert household members if backflow occurs, which is very useful for homes that flood easily. The alarm comes in an alarm box that has sensors that check for clean pipes. If a water influx occurs, an alarm will sound to inform property occupants of a backflow.

Inspect and Pump Your Septic System Regularly

Inspection and pumping of the septic tank are essential to ensure that the tank is working effectively and that obstructions aren't that could affect the working of the septic system. Experts say you should inspect and pump your system at least every three years .

Depending on your household size, the size of the septic tank, the amount of wastewater generated from the house, and the volume of the solids, you might want to inspect the system more often. A professional might recommend an annual inspection if your septic system has electricity float switches or mechanical pumps.

Inspection is also vital to check for scum and sludge layers that could affect how the drain field functions. You should pump your tank if the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the outlet or if the scum layer is within six inches of the bottom of the outlet.

Keep Your System Healthy

Lastly, you need to keep the system healthy so it can continue working efficiently. Flooding and backflow often occur when the system is too full or has a blockage. To keep the system in good shape, start by restricting the items you flush down the toilet.

Sanitary waste, like baby wipes, diapers, pads, and tampons, may clog the pipes and disrupt your system because it's not degradable waste. Also, avoid pouring chemicals, throwing hygiene products like toothpaste tubes and dental floss, pouring oil and greasy items from the kitchen, and disposing of condoms and cigarette butts into the sewer line.

Follow these tips above to protect the environment and your neighborhood from wastewater contamination. In case you experience a backflow or flooding, contact JT Sanitation ; we'll be happy to help.

5 Reasons You Should Hire a Septic System Company

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 19:02:55 GMT

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), your septic system needs a check-up at least every three years . The agency further says that septic systems with components such as pumps and float switches need to be checked at least once annually. Regular inspections ensure that repairs are done early enough to prevent the problem from worsening.

However, septic system repair isn't something that you should leave to a DIY enthusiast. It is an intricate task that should only be carried out by an expert. Here are the reasons you should always hire a septic system professional.

1. They Handle All the Dirty Work

Dealing with a faulty septic tank might not be as easy as unclogging your toilet. Septic repairs might mean dipping your hands in dirty sewage waste. The pungent smell, inadequate skills, and lack of reliable equipment might complicate the process. The smell is a challenge, especially for anyone with respiratory conditions such as asthma.

On the other hand, an expert has the necessary equipment to deal with sewage waste. From cleaning to pumping, they have what it takes to get the job done despite working in a smelly and unfavorable environment.

2. They Are Experienced

Thanks to the advent of the internet, there are many DIY videos online today. Though these videos come in handy when dealing with simple household projects, they are not a good option in this case. Septic system repair is best handled by experienced hands that will get the job done in the right way.

Over the years, an expert has probably come across similar septic issues. Therefore, they will know what to do even from the very beginning.

3. They Save Money and Time

Septic system maintenance and repair requires the use of special equipment. The equipment is not cheap and buying them isn't the best thing to do because you won't use them regularly. Once you hire a professional, you will spare your hard-earned money since you won't have to buy the pricey equipment.

Remember that handling matters on your own can also make the problem worse. For example, a DIY approach might make septic waste flow to unwanted areas, forcing you to pay more to rectify the problem. Calling in an expert will prevent such issues from happening.

What is more, handling the task yourself means spending a lot of time figuring out what is wrong with the septic system. However, an expert will tell where the problem lies even before they start the job. This means completing repairs in the shortest time possible to allow you to return to your regular daily schedule.

4. They Offer Effective Maintenance Tips

Once your septic tank gets repaired, you need to know how to prevent the problem from recurring in the future. This is what a seasoned septic system company does best. They will enlighten you on cost-effective maintenance tips that will keep septic problems at bay. As a result, you won't have to pay for repairs now and then.

5. They Keep Your Loved Ones Healthy

The toxicity of sewage waste means that the smallest amount has the potential to cause serious health problems. The best way to keep your family healthy is by having your septic tank professionally cleaned. Failure to do so creates a perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can cause life-threatening diseases.

As you can see, the need to hire a septic system professional cannot be overstated. At JT Sanitation, we have what it takes to offer same day service. We also have a 24-hour emergency team that is always on standby to address all your septic needs. Why not contact us today and get a free estimate?

Need a New Septic System? 4 Things to Know About the Percolation Test

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 00:37:26 GMT

If you build a new home and you plan to install a septic system, you will need to take some steps first. One of those steps involves the percolation test. A percolation test is a test designed to identify the absorption rate for soil. The absorption rate is how quickly water is able to be absorbed into the soil.

This rate is especially important for septic system installation. Without a good percolation rate, wastewater collects in the seepage field, which can lead to septic system failure.

Before you proceed with your septic system installation, discover some information you might find useful regarding the percolation test.

1. The Soil Is Tested for Percolation Rate

If this is your first experience with a percolation test, you may not be familiar with the process. The actual percolation test is quite simple.

During the percolation test, several holes will be dug into the soil. Once the holes are dug, they will be filled with water to ensure initial soil saturation. After the water absorbs into the soil, the holes will be with water again. From that point, the water will be monitored to determine how long it takes to be absorbed into the soil. A faster percolation rate equals better soil for your septic system.

2. Your Home Might Not Need the Percolation Test

If you are in the process of building your new home and you plan to install a septic system, you may wonder why you need a percolation test. The first thing to know is that not all residential property requires a percolation test, even when a septic system will be installed. If your property is near an existing municipal sewer system, you will not need to have a percolation test.

3. A Failed Test Is Not the End of the Road

If your soil has failed the percolation test, you may wonder what to do next. Note that a failed test does not necessarily mean that your project is at a standstill. You can take some steps to achieve a passing score on the percolation test.

First, if you have several acres to work with, you can run the percolation test in different areas of your property. Second, you can invest in a deep-hole percolation test. This test involves digging deeper into the soil. This option is best when the water table in your area tends to fluctuate. Finally, consider other options for your septic system. Several different types of septic systems work well when the soil has a poor percolation rate.

4. The Results Do Expire on Your Percolation Test

If you are ready to perform the percolation test on your soil, you will need to be ready to proceed with construction once you have the results. You might think that percolation test results would be valid indefinitely, but that is not the case.

In most places, percolation test results are only valid for about two to five years . Unfortunately, if your percolation test results expire before construction is complete on your home, you may need to invest in another round of testing. The best way to avoid that risk is to be prepared to start construction before you schedule the percolation test.

If you are ready to get started on the construction of your new home, be prepared for the installation of your new septic system as well. This information will help you to understand the process involved in the percolation test.

If you are in the Lancaster, CA, area, contact JT Sanitation . We can answer any questions you might have about the installation of your new septic system, including questions regarding the percolation test.

Next Steps If Your Building Site Won't Support Standard Septic

Sat, 10 Oct 2020 13:43:04 GMT

Planning the construction of your dream home or vacation home is an exciting step, but like many big projects, it may hit some snags along the way. One potential setback can occur if you discover that your building site is unsuitable for building a standard septic system.

Perhaps your site failed the percolation test, or perhaps it's simply too rocky, hilly, or close to a body of water, meaning that a standard septic system wouldn't function properly. Either way, this setback doesn't have to be the end. Here are some next steps to take if you find out that your site won't support the standard septic system you were planning on.

1. Consider Sewer Hookup

In many situations, homebuilders are only considering septic because no sewer connections are available at all. In this scenario, a sewer hookup won't be an option for you. However, if you planned a septic system because you want your home to be off-grid or because a sewer connection would be inconvenient and expensive, you may want to reconsider.

Even if a sewer hookup would require laying sewer pipe quite a distance or across a neighbor's property, these expenses may seem more reasonable when your only other option is a more costly alternative septic system. And having a sewer hookup won't prevent you from constructing eco-friendly graywater systems or a compost toilet for your green lifestyle later on.

2. Look for Adaptations and Alternatives

If you've completely written off the possibility of a sewer hookup (for instance, if the nearest sewer line is miles away), it's time to look into alternative septic systems. These types of systems are designed specifically to work in situations where a more standard system can't operate effectively. Some examples of alternative systems and adaptations include:

Septic mound systems for areas where topsoil is too shallow or poorly drained
Sand filter systems for areas where the soil doesn't filter well
Aerobic systems for small lots, sites near open water, and similar issues
Pump-assisted systems for hilly sites

As you can see, different site problems can require different solutions. For example, if your site failed its percolation test because the soil is too dense, you may simply need to update your septic system plans to include a mound system.

3. Find a Septic Contractor and Get a Quote

However, before you update your plans or finalize anything, you'll need to get an expert opinion. A contractor who has plenty of experience with alternative septic systems can help you to visualize how an alternative system would work on your property.

The contractor can also give a professional opinion of how well each potential alternative would work in your situation and outline the pros and cons of different options. Don't forget to ask for a quote on how much the system installation will cost once you've decided which alternative system type is likely to work best.

4. Update Building Plans and Schedule

The requirements for an alternative septic system may mean that constructing the system will take more time and potentially cost more. So, you'll have to update your construction schedule and budget accordingly.

In addition, you may need to adjust where you build the house based on the system's size and placement. For example, one adaptation for a difficult site is to simply design a system with a larger leach field. Since leach fields have to be a certain distance from the house, this could mean moving your building site if the leach field area starts to encroach on that required gap.

So make sure you go back over your building plans, schedule, and budget with all planned adaptations in mind.

These next steps will help you to find a way forward after receiving the difficult news that you can't build the septic system that you were planning for on your construction site. For more information on different septic system options and alternatives, give JT Sanitation a call today. We can help with septic planning, installation, and upkeep.

Installing Septic? 4 Ways to Make Sure You Don't Have Problems Later

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 22:10:56 GMT

When you install a brand-new septic system on your property, you have a lot of details and plans to work out. You want to make the right choices and pay attention to the right details, but it's not always easy, especially if you haven't owned a septic system before.

Here are four tips to help you plan and manage your installation to prevent common septic issues later.

1. Choose Plastic Septic Baffles

Septic baffles are the piece used at the inflow and outflow of the septic tank. The inlet baffle mainly helps direct wastewater so that it takes a downward trajectory. The outlet baffle holds back the solids and the floating scum layer so that only liquid waste flows out to the leach field (also known as soil absorption area).

Plastic may not sound like the highest-quality material to use, but the two materials typically used for septic baffles are plastic and concrete. Concrete tends to react with one of the gases produced in the tank. This reaction weakens the concrete until it crumbles. A plastic baffle, also called a sanitary tee, doesn't suffer from the same ailment.

Plastic septic baffles are a huge part of keeping your septic system in good order. That's because a crumbled baffle can cause big problems.

For example, the baffle could collapse into the tank's outflow pipe and prevent water from leaving the tank. Or it could simply crumble away from the bottom until it doesn't hold back solids and scum any more. Solids and scum could then make their way out of the tank and end up in the leach field, which will clog the lines.

2. Size the System for Future Family Additions

If you plan to add to your family later on and you want to stay in this house long-term, you'll need to make sure your septic system is up to the task. Even if your house isn't big enough for more family members now, if you plan to add on later, you'll need to have the septic capacity if you hope to be able to update your house in a cost-effective way.

Invest in a tank that will keep up with your family's size. Not only the tank itself, but also the leach field will need to have a larger capacity if you plan to have a larger family in future.

3. Install a Septic Filter

In addition to a septic baffle that won't crumble, you really need to have a septic filter at the outlet pipe. This will help further narrow down what reaches the leach field. If too much waste with high organic content gets into the leach field lines, it can eat up the oxygen until the leach field's aerobic bacteria are no longer healthy because of the reduced oxygen levels.

When the aerobic bacteria fail to thrive, your leach field's anaerobic bacteria (those that don't require air) can take over. This result tends to smell bad, and it can result in a thicker slime layer that can clog up the soil.

4. Consider Future Maintenance Now

You'll likely work with a professional septic contractor to install your septic system. Ask the contractor if they also provide septic maintenance. If so, ask them to simply send you a reminder when your system is due for its first maintenance visit, when your system will need its first pump-out and filter cleaning.

If the installation contractor doesn't offer maintenance, ask them to recommend a local contractor who does.

These four tips can help you consider each aspect of how your septic system's installation process will affect its future performance and lifespan. And of course, one of the most important factors in any installation is the expertise of the installer. So be sure you only choose a qualified, reputable local installer with great reviews.

JT Sanitation provides septic services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We offer not only soil testing and tank installations but also services for those with existing septic systems, such as video line inspections and high-pressure jetting for blocked sewer or drain lines. Get in touch today to learn more.