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septic system

Bacteria and Enzymes in Your Septic System

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What makes a septic system work properly? Billions of naturally occurring microscoBasic Septic Maintenancepic bacteria and enzymes are responsible for a major part of the three-stage treatment that processes wastewater in a septic system.

The wastewater in the septic tank begins the process of decomposition by separating into layers.  Bacteria, which is naturally present in all septic systems, will begin to digest the solids which have settled to the bottom of the tank.  These naturally occurring bacteria will change up to 50% of these solids into liquids and gases.

There are all kinds of additives on the market advertised to improve the biological environment of your septic system, but most experts agree that they are not needed.  The best plan is to keep high doses of cleaners and bleaches out of your septic system which can kill off the beneficial bacteria.

Another important part of the process occurs in the drainfield.  The effluent, or wastewater from the septic tank enters the drain or leachfield and comes into contact with the biomat.  There are organisms living in the biomat which further digest the organic matter in the effluent and from there it reaches the soil where the last part of the process occurs.  Bacteria in the soil further treat the waste. It is important that the drainfield not be flooded.  Many of these bacteria found in the soil and biomat are aerobic or oxygen dependent.  If water floods a drainfield, they may die off and will not be replenished until the flooding is relieved.

All Clear Septic can answer all your septic system questions.  Call them at 508-763-4431  or visit www.allclearseptic.com.  Ask them about their maintenance program and emergency services.  They have all the answers to your septic needs.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on February 17, 2016.

 

drain field

Soil and Your Septic System

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Soil and

Drainfield Soil

 Soil plays a major part in the proper functioning of a septic system. Many people do not realize what an important role the type of soil can make in your drainfield. Soil failure can be  a major cause of septic system failure.

 Soil works as a fine filter, and is the home to trillions of microscopic organisms that feed on organic matter in the effluent from the drainfield.

Soil Types

The texture of the soil  determines how quickly wastewater will be absorbed in the drainfield.  Soil percolation is the ability of the soil to absorb water.  The best types of soil for drainage or percolation contain a balance of coarse and fine particles. 

Gravel, or soil with a coarse texture, or coarse sand may not be adequate.  They allow wastewater to pass too quickly to provide adequate treatment. These types of soils work only if they are deep. Soil may be brought in for septic systems and drainfields when the current soil is inadequate.

Clay Soil

Some soil mixtures may contain some particles of clay. Clay soil can be used in drainfields, but water moves through it much slower than in gravel or coarse textured soil. The problem with clay particles is that they can swell and block soil passages.  This slows the movement of wastewater even more.  If clay particles  electronically bond to sodium molecules contained in wastewater, hardpan can occur.  The passage of wastewater is totally blocked and this can lead to septic failure. Hardpan conditions in clay soil can be chemically treated.  There are some products on the market to treat this condition.

Since soil plays such a critical part in the life of your septic system, it’s best to leave it up to the experts.  Call All Clear Septic at 508-763-4431 for all your septic needs and questions.  Ask them about their septic system maintenance program.  Or visit www.allclearseptic.com

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on February 10, 2016.

 

septic functional inspections

Septic System Failure

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What causes a septic system to fail?  What are some of the signs of a failed septic and what can you septic system failuredo to avoid this?  If you are a home owner with a private septic system, these questions may have run through your mind.  

What causes a septic system to fail?  We must start by understanding that wastewater is made up of organics and water. The organics come from human waste, soaps, garbage, etc. When excess organics are introduced into the system they clog the soils preventing water from passing through. If too much water is introduced into the system it can wash organics out of the septic tank and into the field speeding up the clogging of the soils. Excessive water can also hydraulically overload the system. Each septic system is similiar to a funnel and can only allow a fixed amount of water to pass through. If you exceed that amount of water the system will flood resulting in breakout of sewage onto the ground or backup of sewage into the house. Regular septic system maintenance can identify problems that can damage your system. 

What are some of the signs that your septic system is failing?    A foul smell inside the house or outside near the drainfield is a bad sign.  Also, wastewater flowing up to the ground near the drainfield, muddy soil around the septic system, water in the basement, toilets that back up as well as sinks when laundry is running and also thick, lush grass over the drainfield.  If you notice any of these signs, call a septic system professional from All Clear Septic right away.  Also taking part in the preventative maintenance program All Clear offers as well as regular inspections can prevent your septic system from  failing altogether.

What are other ways to help avoid septic system failure?  Keep toxic chemicals out of your system.  Never clean any oil-based products or chemicals in your sink such as paint rollers.  Keep toxic household cleaning products from entering your septic system.  Try to use “non-toxic” and “septic safe” cleaners.  Do not drain your hot tub into your septic system drainfield.  It was not designed to handle the large amount of water.  Make sure you let it cool and drain far away from your drainfield.  Also, garbage disposals can spell disaster for your septic system.  Start a compost pile for all your kitchen scraps and you can use this in your garden or flower beds.  Water softeners are also a sure way to kill your septic system. The backflush from water softeners containing salt should never be placed into the septic system

The best defense against septic system failure is prevention.  Call All Clear Septic at 508-763-4431 or visit www.allclearseptic.com  and see how they can help you with a maintenance program to keep your septic system functioning properly.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on February 4, 2016.

 

All Clear

Up Your Game with Septic System Risers

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SEPTIC SYSTEM RISERS, COVERS AND FILTERS

You can extend the life of your septic system by just performing a couple of simple and cost-effective tasks. Signing up for the All-Clear Preventative Maintenance Program is one way to eliminate septic system surprises and make simple adjustments that will prevent costly repairs or replacements. Another way to improve the effectiveness of your septic system is through the use of risers, covers and filters.

RISER AND COVER INSTALLATION

When your septic system is more accessible, it is also much more safe and attractive. These goals can be achieved through the use of strong, durable risers and system covers. Once installed, homeowners will be able to provide easy access to the system for future repairs, upgrades or cleaning services, eliminating the need to dig and excavate the system each time it needs to be pumped or inspected, making these services less costly.

EFFLUENT FILTER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

People in the septic industry, including engineers, scientists and educators, suggest that property owners install an effluent filter in the outlet tee of their septic tank to extend the life of their system. Coupled with a regular maintenance program, such as All-Clear’s Preventative Maintenance Program, and professional pumping, your septic system could actually last indefinitely.  Due to the high cost associated with replacing a septic system, this seemingly small upgrade to your system will pay off in a big way.

UPGRADE YOUR SYSTEM WITH ALL-CLEAR AND SAVE!

Give All-Clear Septic & Wastewater a call at 508-763-4431 for more information about adding risers, covers and effluent filters to your septic system. Consultation services are available for both residential and commercial property owners free of charge.  We can help you save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your septic system through our Preventative Maintenance Program, services, education and system upgrade options.

Visit www.allclearseptic.com for more information.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on January 6, 2015.

All Clear Septic

Septic Maintenance- Part 3

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All Clear SepticAnother way to prevent unnecessary stress on your system is to know how many appliances are hooked up to your septic system and when they are operating.  Washing machines, dishwashers, showers, baths, and hot tubs all use a large quantity of water, and should never be used at the same time.  This large quantity of water, if drained all at the same time, has the possibility of stirring the solids in the bottom of the septic tank which can then make it to the drain field which reduces the effectiveness of the field and may clog the system.  If you can, do not use showers, washing machines and dishwashers at the same time.  This will allow the water to flow into the septic system and drain normally without stressing the system.  Hot tubs should never be drained into the septic system.  To drain it,  let the water cool and drain it onto the lawn or other location away from septic systems, drain systems, or the home itself, and in accordance with local regulations.

Garbage disposals also put a serious strain on the septic system.  Using one increases the amount of solids sent to the septic tank dramatically and decreases the time between pumpings.  In some cases the ground solids will float on the surface and may even pass to the drain field which can lead to blockages or other septic failures.  If you have a septic system, discontinue use of a garbage disposal to increase the life of your septic system and reduce the number of times you need to pump it.

Household chemicals and cleaners can seriously impact the function and degrade the physical structure of your septic system.  Most cleaning chemicals and cleaners should not be put down the toilet.  Depending on the chemical being used, it can kill the bacteria in your tank which help to naturally digest some of the solids and process the waste in the septic tank.  Without these bacteria, the tank will not function properly and will need to be pumped or serviced  much more often.  Hazardous waste such as gasoline, paint thinners, oils, paints, and pharmaceuticals should never be put into the septic system.  This dramatically increases the chance of polluting the soils and groundwater, and may cause serious damage to the septic systems’ structures and biological processes.

One of the easiest things you can do to help maintain your septic system is to keep good records of installations, pumpings and service calls.  With good records you will be able to help service personnel determine possible issues far easier as they will have a good history of the system and can help predict problems.  They will also be a good reminder of when you should have the system serviced or pumped to ensure a long-lasting and effective septic system.   CONTACT US ABOUT OUR MAINTENANCE PROGRAM.  WE GUARANTEE YOU WILL PASS A TITLE 5 INSPECTION IF YOU ARE ON OUR MAINTENANCE PROGRAM OR YOUR INSPECTION IS FREE.  ALL MAINTENANCE CUSTOMERS GET HALF OFF THE INSPECTION PRICE.

Remember, your toilet is not a catch-all for household waste.  It is far better to put whatever it is in the trash than into the septic system to help prevent costly repairs and repeated service calls.  If you do have questions or concerns about your septic system, don’t hesitate to call All-Clear Septic and Wastewater Services at 508-763-4431 today!

You can also visit www.allclearseptic.com for information.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on December 9, 2015.

All Clear Septic

The History of All Clear Septic

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All Clear SepticThe State of Massachusetts initiated a law in 1995, requiring all on-site sewage treatment systems (septic systems) to fall under specific guidelines. This was in response to concerns about the contamination of groundwater and local drinking water supplies as a result of antiquated septic systems and cesspools within Massachusetts.

The Code of Massachusetts Regulations (310 CMR, Section 15.00) states that Title 5 Inspection: “Protects you and your neighbors from public health threats. DEP, local Boards of Health and system owners all share the responsibility for the proper sitting, construction, upgrade and maintenance of on-site systems.”

In 1995, the year that the law was implemented, Al Rivet, the owner of All-Clear, entered the septic industry as a Title 5 Inspector. However, after he had performed thousands of inspections, Al discovered that there was a need for a company in Southcoast Massachusetts that could provide inspections, effectively troubleshoot septic systems and provide any preventative maintenance or repairs that were required. As a result, the incorporation of All-Clear as a septic and wastewater services company was established in 2004.

The service offerings available to our customers through All-Clear have grown over the years, as consumer needs were identified through hands-on experience. We proudly offer Title 5 Inspections, confidential septic evaluations, troubleshooting services, annual maintenance, septic pumping, remedial repairs and septic rejuvenations.

The only service NOT provided by All-Clear is the installation of new septic systems. We refrain from providing installations so that there would never be a conflict of interest for us to fail a passing system. Providing quality septic services that you can trust and professional customer care is our top priority.

Visit www.allclearseptic.com or call 508-763-4431 to see how we can help you.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on November 18, 2015.

Frequently asked septic questions

Frequently Asked Septic Questions!

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FAQ

What do I need to do to sell my house or build an addition on my home?

If you own a home that has a private septic system in the State of Massachusetts, you are required to have a State-Certified Title 5 Inspector perform an official Title 5 Inspection on your system prior to selling your home or building an addition.

What is a Title 5 Inspection?

Since 1995, the State of Massachusetts has required homeowners to have their private septic system check thoroughly by a State-Certified Title 5 Inspector. Here is what you can expect from an official Title 5 Inspection – the inspector will:

  • conduct an interview with the property owner
  • research the paperwork for your property at your city’s Board of Health Department
  • survey the general size of the building or list a summary of the number of bedrooms
  • inspects the connection from the house/building to the system
  • inspects the inlet/outlet of the septic tank
  • examines the integrity of the tank
  • measures the liquid/contents of the tank
  • examines the integrity of the distribution box
  • measures the liquid/contents of the distribution box
  • checks the soil absorption system (SAS) condition
  • checks the relation of the system’s water table to the SAS
  • examines the integrity of the pipes using a special “sewer cam” (All-Clear specialty service, not required by the state)
  • provides an official 17-page document to the local approving authority and the owner, including all findings and a detailed sketch of the system

Is it possible to get an inspection even if I am not selling my home?

Yes, this type of inspection is called a Voluntary Assessment. All of the same steps in the above inspection detail will be taken, however the 17-page document will NOT be sent to your local approving authority – it is for your information only. A Voluntary Assessment is a great way to find out more about your own septic system. All-Clear highly recommends this to our clients as a means of properly maintaining, upgrading and repairing your system to prolong its life. Ask us about additional services we can provide to ensure the proper working of your septic system.

Can I get a Voluntary Assessment performed even if I don’t live in Massachusetts?

Yes, All-Clear is also certified to perform inspections in the State of Rhode Island.

Should I get my system pumped or cleaned before I get an inspection?

Absolutely not. The State of Massachusetts requires that your system be inspected under “normal use conditions” for a minimum of 2 weeks or more. If your system needs pumping during this period, we can arrange to have it done for you while the components of your system are exposed.

Will my landscaping be affected by the inspection?

The All-Clear team is very respectful to the landscaping of your home or property. In order to minimize the amount of physical work required to perform your inspection, we use state-of-the-art locating equipment that helps us to locate your system components within a 4-inch radius. We also use a specialized “sewer cam” to let us inspect your pipes without having to dig them up. Any sod that needs to be removed is cut carefully and laid on tarps so it can be neatly replaced when your inspection is complete.

What do I need to do after I get a new system installed?

You should first get a copy of the As-Built and Design Plans of your new system from the Health Department or the designer. These plans will help All-Clear to provide more effective service to your in the future, should any repairs be required. It is also helpful to have a diagram of your new septic system in the event of any future landscaping projects, parking places, driveways or other renovations to your home or property. You should also contact All-Clear to set up a Preventative Maintenance Plan to keep your new system running effectively and efficiently. Another great tip is to add a laundry filter to your washing machine to protect your new system.

How often do I need to get my septic tank pumped?

The answer to this question will depend greatly upon usage. On average, a family of four that lives in a three-bedroom house will need to get their tank pumped every 2-5 years. Your best bet is to find out more about the All-Clear Preventative Maintenance Program to stay on top of your system, helping you to get your tank pumped only as-needed.

Can I build over my septic tank?

Most municipal and State codes do not allow you to build anything on top of your septic tank. All-Clear does not advise building any pools, driveways, additions or other items over top of your tank. We also suggest strongly that you do not build or plant landscaping on top of your drainfield.

Should I open my septic tank if I think there is a problem?

You should never open your septic tank. While today’s systems are safe for you and your family, opening a tank without benefit of professional training can expose everyone to dangerous bacteria and gases. Your best bet is to contact a certified, professional service, such as All-Clear, if you suspect any problems occurring within your system.

Are there any important do’s or don’ts with regard to keeping the system trouble-free?

Yes, please view our Do’s and Don’ts page within our Education section. (LINK)

How much will it cost for services at All-Clear?

Please contact us direct for information about the services offered at All-Clear, as well as pricing information and our popular Preventative Maintenance Program.

Call 508-763-4431 or visit www.allclearseptic.com

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on November 11, 2015.

 

septic system

Septic Tips for Proper Usage!

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Do you have a new septic system, or are you moving to a house and have never had a septic system before?  Here are some tips you can follow to help keep your system working properly, provided by All-Clear Septic & Wastewater Services.  

  • The first and easiest thing you can do is schedule regular checks on your system with a licensed  septic system specialist.  Depending on the type and flow rate of the system, checkups can be scheduled anywhere from once every three months to three years. 

 

  • Pumping your system on a regular schedule is highly recommended.  The amount of use and size of the system will dictate the pumping schedule, but it is safe to say the more people using  the system, the more often you will need to have it serviced.


Watching your water use carefully will be a major factor in how well your septic system functions.  If you are able, use low-flow fixtures in your kitchen and bathroom. It  will considerably reduce overall usage and wear and tear on the system.

Try not to wash all your laundry on the same day.  Spread washes throughout the week.

Do not run your dishwasher and washing machine at the same time.  

Do not put anything but toilet tissue down the toilet.  A product labelled “flushable” may be ok for a sewer-tied system, but may not be ok for a septic system.

Do not drain hot tubs, pools, spas or other large-capacity water tank into the septic system. Pool chemicals can kill off beneficial bacteria in the system, and the massive rush of water can “flood” your leach field, rendering the system ineffective until it has properly drained.

Ensure risers are installed and easily accessible to septic system maintenance professionals.

Ensure all rainwater and drainage is directed away from the leach field to prevent flooding the system.

Use shallow-rooted grass, flowers and shrubs when landscaping on or around your system.  This will help prevent damage from deep-growing root systems.

Stop or reduce use of garbage disposal.  These can quickly create a blockage in your septic system and leach field, as well as introduce large quantities of grease and other solids which will require more frequent pumping and system maintenance.

Do not flush household cleaning chemicals or put them down the drain.  These can potentially kill the beneficial bacteria or cause significant damage to the system itself.  These can also pollute the groundwater if done in sufficient quantity or concentration.

Do not build structures or park vehicles on the tank or leach field.  This could cause damage to the system and compact the soil which prevents liquids from leaching into the earth freely.

Do not use septic system additives unless directed by your septic system maintenance professional.  These may cause issues with the system or eliminate the healthy bacteria within the tank.  Only use additives if they are approved by your septic system maintenance professional for your specific septic system.

If you still have questions or need service, call All-Clear TODAY at (508) 763-4431!

This blog was posted on October 29, 2015 on www.allclearseptic.com

septic system cleaning and pumping

Septic System Cleaning and Pumping!

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SEPTIC CLEANING & PUMPING

Part of any good Preventative Maintenance Program is to ensure that your septic system is properly cleaned and is pumped on a regular basis. It is important to know the facts about septic cleaning and pumping to avoid making costly mistakes.

SEPTIC CLEANING

Getting your tanks cleaned on a regular basis will help to improve the efficiency of your septic system and keep it running smooth. It is important to select your service provider carefully to ensure that you get quality work.  Be sure that when comparing prices that you compare apples to apples.  Some differences that may effect cost are the size of the tank, how deep the covers are buried, and if there is a filter to clean.

All-Clear takes pride in the work that we do, utilizing specialized equipment to locate specific areas of your system, such as a sewer camera that is used to investigate the inside of your sewer lines, and jetting equipment to clean the pipes within the leach field.

SEPTIC PUMPING

pumpingSome pumping services will tell you that you need to get your septic system pumped every 6 months or on an annual basis. The truth is that a properly maintained septic system should only be pumped based on the accumulation of sludge and scum, which is typically every 2-5 years.  Pumping too frequently is costly and removes the “good” bacteria that keep the system running smoothly.

If you would like a system evaluation and to know how often you should be pumping, give All-Clear a call for an evaluation and to set up quick and easy pumping arrangements.

OUR GOAL: CLEANER AND MORE EFFICIENT SEPTIC SYSTEMS

All-Clear can get you started on the road to a healthier septic system for your residential or commercial property through our Preventative Maintenance Program. We are so confident in the services offered through this program that we offer a unique “Pass or It’s FREE Guarantee” on Title 5 Inspections to all of our customers that are in the Preventative Maintenance Program and have followed up with all of our recommendations. We also provide a 50% discount off of all Title 5 Inspections for our up-to-date Preventative Maintenance Program customers. Call us today at 508-763-4431 to get more information about our programs and services.

Visit www.allclearseptic.com for everything you need to know about your septic system.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on October 22, 2015.

septic system cleaning and pumping

Septic System Cleaning and Pumping!

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SEPTIC CLEANING & PUMPING

Part of any good Preventative Maintenance Program is to ensure that your septic system is properly cleaned and is pumped on a regular basis. It is important to know the facts about septic cleaning and pumping to avoid making costly mistakes.

SEPTIC CLEANING

Getting your tanks cleaned on a regular basis, will help to improve the efficiency of your septic system and keep it running smooth.  It is important to select your service provider carefully to ensure that you get quality work.  Be sure that when comparing prices that you compare apples to apples.  Some differences that may effect cost are the size of the tank, how deep the covers are buried, and if there is a filter to clean.

All-Clear takes pride in the work that we do, utilizing specialized equipment to locate specific areas of your system, such as a sewer camera that is used to investigate the inside of your sewer lines, and jetting equipment to clean the pipes within the leach field.

SEPTIC PUMPING

pumpingSome pumping services will tell you that you need to get your septic system pumped every 6 months or on an annual basis. The truth is that a properly maintained septic system should only be pumped based on the accumulation of sludge an scum, which is typically every 2-5 years.  Pumping too frequently is costly and removes the “good” bacteria that keep the system running smoothly.

If you would like a system evaluation and to know how often you should be pumping, give All-Clear a call for an evaluation and to set up quick and easy pumping arrangements.

OUR GOAL: CLEANER AND MORE EFFICIENT SEPTIC SYSTEMS

All-Clear can get you started on the road to a healthier septic system for your residential or commercial property through our Preventative Maintenance Program. We are so confident in the services offered through this program that we offer a unique “Pass or It’s FREE Guarantee” on Title 5 Inspections to all of our customers that are in the Preventative Maintenance Program and have followed up with all of our recommendations. We also provide a 50% discount off of all Title 5 Inspections for our up-to-date Preventative Maintenance Program customers. Call us today at 508-763-4431 to get more information about our programs and services.

Visit www.allclearseptic.com for everything you need to know about your septic system.

This blog was posted on www.allclearseptic.com on September 9, 2015.