
Regular inspections and maintenance are a must if you have a septic system so it can properly manage your property’s wastewater for the long haul. We come across many homeowners in King County WA who don’t know how often they should have their septic tank inspected, or even what it entails. But we can tell you that not getting an inspection leads to big problems down the road, such as system failure, expensive repairs, and property damage.
Sometimes, your septic system will tell you it needs attention. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
- Bad smells around your drains or in your yard
- Slow-draining sinks or toilets
- Wet or spongy areas in your yard
- Sewage backing up into your home
It’s important to note that they may not be obvious warning signs. Your best option is to bring in a septic expert.
If you’re currently facing a septic emergency, call us right away. Our team is available 24/7!
Let’s dive into what you need to know about septic inspections. We’re here to help you understand what happens during a septic inspection and why it’s so important.
What Happens During a Septic Inspection?
Septic inspections are actually pretty straightforward. During the process, a septic expert (like Puget Sound Septic) will look at the overall condition of the system. You can expect them to:
- Measure the tank’s liquid level
- Check baffles
- Look for signs of any leaks or damage
- Check the distribution box condition
- Test the system’s overall function
- Assess pipes
- Check the drain field
- Test the pump system controls
When checking the drain field, the technician wants to make sure that the system can accept water (and is functioning properly overall). A well-functioning drain field won’t have water surfacing. They may also add in dye to test the water and make sure it’s not seen in the drain field.
And when they’re checking the pump system controls, they’re looking to see if the alarm, pump, and controls are working properly.
Common Septic Issues Found
Some common issues that may come up during inspections include:
- Buildup of solids
- Damaged or clogged pipes
- Leaks in the tank or pipes
- Overfilling
- Damaged pipes
- Clogged filters
Catching these issues early can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.
Choose Us for Your Septic Pumping Needs
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Choose Us for Your Septic Pumping Needs
Fill out our form and we'll be in touch!
*During normal business hours. After hours calls will be returned the next business day.
How Often Should You Have Your Septic Tank Inspected?
We recommend getting your septic tank inspected at least once every three years, preferably once a year. However, some systems might need more frequent checks if they’re older or more complex. An expert can help you figure out the best schedule for your specific system.
So don’t wait too long between inspections! As mentioned, this can lead to costly repairs or even system failure.
How long does a septic inspection take?
The whole process usually takes about two to four hours, depending on the size and complexity of your system. Throughout the inspection, a Puget Sound Septic technician will explain everything we find in simple terms, so you’ll know exactly what’s going on with your system.
How Puget Sound Septic Makes Inspections Easy
At Puget Sound Septic, we make septic inspections easy and stress-free. We understand that dealing with your septic system can be stressful. Our team knows exactly what to look for and how to keep your system running smoothly.
One of our experienced technicians will provide a detailed report of our findings and explain everything in easy-to-understand terms. We’ll also work around your schedule and offer advice on how to keep your system healthy.
We’re here to give you peace of mind and keep your septic system running smoothly for years to come! Contact Puget Sound Septic today to schedule your inspection by giving us a call or filling out a contact form here.
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