A: Because of heavy rain and high water use Tampa residents should pump their septic tanks every 3 to 5 years to avoid overflow of solid waste or permanent structural damage.
A: The torrential downpours can oversaturate Tampa’s sandy soil and prevent wastewater from absorbing like normal. Wastewater from your house needs somewhere to go or it’ll pool water in your yard and slow the drainage. If flooding remains for several days after a storm or smells like sewage your drain field likely needs inspected due to failure.
A: High water table means that groundwater is near the surface and leaves less dry soil beneath the drain field that would normally filter out harmful bacteria. Florida health codes require a specific elevation and special engineering to keep systems functioning during installation process.
A: Slow drains and gurgling sounds might indicate a failing septic system but you should also look out for unusually lush grass and standing water outside. You might also smell sewage lingering inside the home or near the outdoor tank. If any of these apply you should reach out to Tampa Septic immediately.
A: Minor fixes like a broken pipe or root intrusion are an easy fix but if the soil is totally clogged with solid waste or old age causes the system to collapse you will need a full drain field replacement. Tampa septic does thorough inspections to target the cause and will not recommend full replacement if a repair can fix the problem long term.
A: Most plumbers will tell you that things like baby wipes claiming to be flushable should not go down any drains. Anything that can clog pipes including dental floss will build up over time if they don’t break down on their own. You should also avoid corrosive chemicals like bleach that kill healthy bacterias your tank will need to digest waste.
A: Florida’s Department of Health requires you to get official permits for all new installations and repairs. If it’s a simple maintenance task like a septic pump or broken pipe you likely will not need a permit but either way our team will handle the process on your behalf.
A: Conventional systems use gravity and natural bacterias to break down waste in a tank however aerobic treatment units or ATUs inject oxygen in as well to power bacteria even more. The ATU offers a higher level of purification in the septic tank and is required in certain areas with high water tables.
A: Tampa Septic does point-of-sale inspections for homebuyers and sellers by locating the tank and pumping it out to inspect structural integrity. We’ll also run a flow test to make sure the drain field is up to part with your expectations. You get a full report afterward to satisfy all parties and make the process go smoothly.
A: Cost of services will depend on several factors including tank size and accessibility as well as pre-existing damage if applicable. Routine pumping every few years will save you thousands (or more) in the long run if you end up dealing with a drain field failure. We’ll give you a transparent quote with no hidden fees and upfront pricing estimates.
A small problem now can cost you thousands of dollars if not addressed with the quickness. Contact Tampa Septic to get a consultation and take care of things before the unthinkable happens.
