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How do I know if my septic tank is full?

How do I know if my septic tank is full?

Posted on 10 Jan 2023 by Lise Helluy

If you have a septic tank, you may be wondering how to tell if it's full. There are a few signs that your septic tank is getting full, and if you're unsure, it's always best to contact a professional. Keep reading to learn more about how to tell if your septic tank is full.

1) What is a primary tank (or septic tank)?

A primary tank or septic tank is a wastewater storage system that holds the solid materials from all of our water waste. These systems are most commonly used when there is no access to a sewage line for disposal. The purpose of the primary tank is to keep harmful substances and contaminants away from larger bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. Primary tanks act as holding units for waste until it can be treated with chemical treatments or disposed of safely elsewhere. The tanks themselves consist of several compartments and are typically constructed out of concrete, plastic, or fiberglass materials. BIOROCK tanks are made out of polyethylene which is recyclable by the way! Most tanks need to be pumped out on a regular basis in order to ensure they stay in proper working order!

2) The different signs that prove that my tank is full:

When you’re hoping to gauge if your tank is full, there are three distinct signs you can look out for.

blocked pipesAre you dealing with slow-drainage woes? If so, it's not just the toilet that is affected; your sink, tub, and shower might also be facing similar issues. This is due to clogged pipes which are seriously restricting water from moving through them as it should. If not taken care of in a timely manner, this could lead to disastrous consequences and irreparable damage. But before taking action, it's essential to ensure that the blockage is actually caused by what you think it is. A professional can swiftly assess the problem at hand and give you reliable advice on how best to proceed.

bad odourAnother reliable indicator is the pungent scent of sewage. The unmistakable stench of a septic tank is often an indicator that the tank has filled to capacity or become clogged. This odor tends to spread from the garden, where it's typically located, into other parts of your home - making for very unpleasant living conditions. Initially, the smell may be bearable and can easily be managed with a few deodorizers. However, if left unchecked, it will worsen to an unbearable extent until your house is no longer livable. Acting on the initial indicators of a sewage system problem is critical in order to decrease the chances of water damage and unpleasant aromas. To prevent this, it's essential to check your sewage systems soon after detecting any foul odors.

measureLastly, you can measure with a stick to get an exact reading on the level of waste in your tank - this will give you definite confirmation of whether or not your tank has reached capacity! To perform this task, you require a pole or stick. Open the top of your septic tank and use it to press in the rod. Once you hit the obstacle, then you have reached the bottom of your tank. Once it has been located, pull out the stick and observe where the sludge mark is at. If this fill level goes beyond halfway of your septic system's surface area, it is an indication that it is full to its capacity - time for a pump job!

3) What should I do if my tank is full?

BIOROCK operatorsOnce your tank is over fifty percent full, contact an expert to have it emptied right away. This will not only help you avoid any issues and run the system smoothly but also allow it to work at its very best capacity.

You should also remember that a septic tank typically needs to be emptied out every 4-5 years (based on the number of occupants living in the house and how it was installed).

In times of emergency, BIOROCK professionals are here to help. Our experienced operators understand the importance of a safe and effective solution for your environment- and they will do just that! They specialize in sanitation services such as pumping out water and sludge from septic tanks not connected to sewer systems. With their expertise, you can rest assured knowing that all problems with your septic tank will be taken care of quickly and efficiently. Depending on the situation, they will also clean your pipes, clean the installation and restore it to perfect working order. Ask us now for a free estimate for the emptying of your septic tank or cesspool: sav.biorock.com

Most people don't think about their septic tank until there is a problem. But, being proactive and understanding how your septic system works can save you a lot of time, money, and hassle down the road. If you think your primary tank is full, watch out for these three signs. And if you're still not sure, please contact us or send us an email directly- we would be happy to help!

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