How to Clean a Septic Tank Filter

Water backs up, unpleasant odors waft through the air, and the yard becomes a soggy mess. What’s the cause? A clogged septic tank filter. It can bring your household to a standstill, causing backups, slow drains, and even potential health hazards from exposure to untreated wastewater. It’s a situation that requires immediate attention.

Clogged septic filters are avoided with regular cleaning and maintenance. You can take care of filters yourself, but professional filter cleaning is the way to go for hassle-free living. Puget Sound Septic offers fast, efficient, and cost-effective filter cleaning solutions. We prioritize your convenience so your system remains clog-free and ready for anything life throws its way.

If you’re experiencing a septic tank emergency, call us right away. We’re available 24/7!

How to Clean a Septic Filter: A Step-By-Step Process

Feeling handy? Here’s a step-by-step process of cleaning a septic tank filter yourself:

1. Put on the right safety gear before you even consider approaching your septic tank. This means donning gloves and goggles as a bare minimum. The environment within a septic tank is hazardous, containing harmful gasses and bacteria.
2. Locate your septic tank filter. Your septic tank filter is typically located within the outlet tee of your septic tank, an area designed to screen out solids from entering the leach field. Finding your septic tank may require a bit of detective work if you’re not familiar with the layout of your system. Once located, uncover the tank’s lid following appropriate safety procedures.
3. Carefully remove the filter. Removing the filter can vary from model to model. Some filters can be lifted out directly without much fuss, while others may require clamps to be unscrewed or loosened. This is a delicate part of your system and demands a gentle touch.
4. Gently clean the filter. The best method is to use a hose with a moderate pressure setting to wash away the debris. It’s important to clean it gently to prevent any damage to the filter material. Avoid using harsh chemicals or high-pressure sprayers that could compromise the integrity of the filter.
5. Inspect for damage. As you clean, keep a keen eye out for any signs of wear or damage. A compromised filter won’t perform as efficiently and could lead to problems down the line. Look for tears, holes, or severe wear. If your filter shows signs of any significant damage, it’s time to consider a replacement rather than a simple cleaning.
6. Reinsert or replace the filter. If your filter is still in good shape after a thorough cleaning, it can be placed back into the tank. If it’s damaged, however, this is the time to install a new one. Refer to any manufacturer guidelines for installing a new filter to ensure it’s done correctly. Proper placement is crucial for the filter to function effectively.
7. Double-check for proper placement. Before you consider this job done, it’s important to double-check that everything is correctly in place. The filter should fit snugly without any gaps. Incorrect placement can lead to septic system failure or damage. Once everything is securely in place, you can replace the tank’s lid, ensuring it’s sealed properly to prevent any unauthorized access or accidental opening.

If any of these steps seem daunting, time-consuming, or dangerous to you, you need professionals to take care of it. Dealing with septic tanks is dirty work, in every sense of the word. Puget Sound Septic techs can take care of any septic tank filter!

Can I Clean My Own Septic Filter?

Yes, but with a cautionary note. Cleaning your septic filter requires strict safety procedures and proper handling to avoid damaging the system. A poorly executed job can lead to bigger issues down the line.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Filter Be Cleaned?

At minimum, once a year – but we recommend having your filter cleaned every three to six months.

Neglecting regular cleaning schedules can lead to clogged filters much faster than you’d imagine, especially in households with high water usage. Preventive maintenance is key!

What Happens When My Septic Filter Is Clogged?

A clogged filter can turn your property into a disaster zone. Clogs can back up the entire septic system, leading to slow-draining fixtures, water backup, and potentially hazardous exposure to sewage. The inconvenience and potential health risks here cannot be understated.

Septic Filter Cleaning in King County WA

Our septic services stand out in King County WA with our prompt response, comprehensive service, and dedication to customer satisfaction. We make sure your septic system operates smoothly, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected disruptions.

For peace of mind and a septic service you can trust, reach out to Puget Sound Septic. Call us today to get started, or fill out a service request here. We’ll get back to you right away!