SEPTIC SERVICE EL CAJON
If you are looking for reliable and professional septic tank pumping or septic services we are your choice. Modern Septic Service is the number one choice here at El Cajon, San Diego County, and North County. Our experienced team can handle any project, big or small, and is always ready to offer the best solutions. Whether you need help with a septic installation, repairs, or maintenance, we are here to help. Our goal is to provide our commercial septic and residential septic customers with the best possible experience. We will always go the extra mile to ensure your complete satisfaction.
CHOOSE EL CAJON'S #1 SEPTIC SERVICE
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BOOK US FOR
REGULAR SEPTIC SERVICE IN EL CAJON?
REGULAR SEPTIC SERVICE, SEPTIC PUMPING, AND MAINTENANCE WILL HELP HOMEOWNERS PREVENT SYSTEM FALIERS. IT WILL EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR SEPTIC TANKS AND LEACH LINES. A WELL-MAINTAINED SEPTIC SYSTEM CAN ALSO BOOST YOUR HOME’S VALUE.
USE OUR 10-STEP SEPTIC CARE PROGRAM, DESIGNED TO KEEP YOUR SYSTEM RUNNING SMOOTH.
STEP 1: REGULAR SEPTIC TANK PUMPING & CLEANING
Why is regular septic tank pumping and cleaning is important?
As you know septic systems are crucial for homes not connected to municipal sewer systems. With proper care and maintenance, their lifespan can range from 20 to 40 years. An important part of having a septic system is routine maintenance. The septic tank pumping is the most critical part of the maintenance schedule. It will remove harmful chemical concentrations. Ensure free flow of liquid in inlet and outlet pipes, and reduce the decay of the septic tank top. The recommended maintenance schedule for septic tank pumping is 3-5 years
Plan your septic tank pumping at the right interval. Your ideal frequency depends on the size of your septic tank and the number of people living in your home. While your tank will fill up to the operational level just in a few days, sludge and scum levels are the reason your tank needs to be pumped. The general rule when it comes to calculating septic tank pumping frequency is 3-5
Other Common Calculations:
1000gallon Tank 2 Occupants = 5 years | 1000gallon Tank 4 Occupants = 2.5 years
1250gallon Tank 2 Occupants = 5 years | 1250 gallon Tank 4 Occupants = 3 years
1500 gallon Tank 2 Occupants = 5 years | 1500 gallon Tank 4 Occupants = 4 years
Why do you need to pump every 3-5 years?
You pump to reduce the damage of the sulfide in your septic tank. Sulfide in a septic tank, primarily in the form of hydrogen sulfide gas will cause parts of the tank to break, concrete to decay, and will damage tank walls. You want to make sure there are no tree root intrusions and potential leaching problems over time. Overall, it is best practice to pump out your tank no later than every 5 years.
STEP 2: RESTRICT THE USE OF YOUR GARBAGE DISPOSAL
Why is it important to restrict garbage disposal?
The garbage disposal will increase the amount of solid waste entering the tank and overload your system. We found in some cases up to 50%. Due to this increase, the bacteria's efficiency will drop to breaking down organic matter. It will lead to increased sludge buildup, and result in frequent tank pumping. The extra food entering the tank will disrupt the delicate balance of the septic system. It can cause potential clogs and backups in the drain field.
Overloads the system: The ground-up food waste increases the volume of solids in the tank. Quickly will exceed the capacity of the bacteria to decompose solids.
Sludge buildup: Inefficient bacterial function will result in accumulation as sludge. it will reduce its available space and impact its effectiveness.
Clogged drain field: Raw food particles can clog the drain field, where wastewater is supposed to percolate into the soil. Leach lines will fail over time resulting in costly repairs and unwanted smell.
Increased pumping frequency: To maintain a healthy septic system, you may need to pump your tank more often if you use a garbage disposal.
Options for using a garbage disposal with a septic system: Start a compost bin to dispose of food scraps.
STEP 3: DO NOT POUR GREASE OR COOKING OILS DOWN THE DRAIN.
Why is it important not to pour oil and grease into the septic tank?
Most of the emergency calls we receive are due to a blockage in the main line from the house to the septic tank. The blockage is caused by grease build-up over time and resulting sewage backing up to the house. Oil and grease do not break down easily by the bacteria. It will disrupt the septic system's functionality. It can damage the surrounding soil in the leach field, requiring expensive repairs.
Poor Biodegradation: Unlike organic waste, oil and grease cannot be effectively broken down by bacteria. Causing them to accumulate as a solid layer on the surface of the wastewater.
Clogging Issues: As oil and grease solidify, they can create clogs in the pipes leading from your house to the septic tank. Also, blockage can extend to your leach field, hindering the flow of wastewater.
Reduced Bacterial Activity: A thick layer of grease on the surface of the septic tank can limit the amount of oxygen available to the beneficial bacteria. It will hinder or slow down their ability to break down waste effectively.
Soil Contamination: When oil and grease reach the leach field, they can contaminate the surrounding soil. It will lead to the reduction of water absorption.
How to reduce oil and grease entering your septic system?
Let cooking oil cool completely and then dispose of it in a sealed container in the trash. Install a small grease trap under your kitchen sink to catch fats, oils, and grease before they enter your plumbing system.
STEP 4: DON’T FLUSH FEMININE HYGENIC PRODUCTS AND WIPES DOWN THE DRAIN
Why is it important not to flash feminine hygiene products, or wipes in your septic tank?
Feminine hygiene products and the like such as tampons, pads, and any type of wipes are mostly non-biodegradable. They won't break down naturally, causing them to accumulate in the tank. It will clog pipes, and significantly reduce the efficiency of your septic system.
Breakdown: These products are designed to absorb liquids and remain intact. They won't decompose in the septic tank, taking up valuable space.
Clogging: As they build up, they can clog pipes and block the flow of wastewater, leading to backups and overflows. It will clog the septic tank suction pipe and increase your cost of pumping.
Increased pumping frequency: The accumulation of these products forces you to pump your septic tank more often.
Dispose of feminine hygiene products, or wipes in your trash with a liner. Use dedicated disposal bins in your bathrooms specifically designed for feminine hygiene products.
STEP 5: MANAGE YOUR WATER CONSUMPTION
Why is it important to manage your water consumption if you have a septic tank?
Managing your water consumption is crucial if you have a septic tank. To much water use can overwhelm the system. It can lead to backing up, leach line failure, or groundwater contamination. Not to mention costly repairs by putting too much pressure on the tank's ability to separate solids from liquids. Ultimately shortening the lifespan of your septic system.
Overloading the system: Too much water entering the septic tank at once can prevent solids from settling. Possibly leading to solids entering and clogging the leach field.
Reduced treatment efficiency: A properly functioning septic tank relies on adequate time. Time for solids to settle at the bottom. Excessive water flow decreases this settling time, coursing less effective wastewater treatment.
Environmental impact: Untreated wastewater from an overloaded septic system can leach into groundwater. Contaminating nearby wells and water sources.
Increased maintenance costs: Frequent septic tank pumping may be required if too much water is used.
How to manage water consumption with a septic tank?
Fix leaks and broken toilets. Use water-efficient appliances such as low-flow toilets, showerheads, and washing machines. Limit shower duration to conserve water. Avoid flushing non-biodegradables like wipes or excessive toilet paper.
STEP 6: KNOW THE EXACT LOCATION OF YOUR SEPTIC TANK AND DRAIN FIELD
Why is it important to know where my septic tank and leach field are?
It allows you to properly maintain your septic system and monitor performance. It will help to avoid accidental damage by digging, driving, or building over it. You will be able to troubleshoot, identify potential issues like leaks, and take necessary precautions.
Prevent damage: Knowing the location helps you avoid digging or driving heavy machinery over the septic tank or drain field. 35% of septic tanks are buried under decks, landscaping installation, and concrete driveways.
Easy access: You can easily schedule routine pumping and inspections of your septic tank. Reducing the time and cost if plumbers require access in case of emergencies.
System Monitoring: You notice signs of a failing septic system faster. Soggy areas on your lawn, you can pinpoint the problem area more accurately if you know where the drain field is situated.
Protecting groundwater: By understanding your septic system's location, you can take steps to prevent wastewater from contaminating groundwater sources.
Landscaping: You can avoid planting invasive plants or trees near or on the top of your septic system. Threes close to your drain field and tank can cause irreversible damage to your septic tank and system.
If you are new to septic tanks and systems you can find useful information in the county website. It provides guidelines on maintenance, regulations, and locating your septic tank and leach field. It’s a great resource to help you understand how to care for your system and ensure it operates efficiently LINK
STEP 7: KEEP AUTOMOBILES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT OFF YOUR SYSTEM SYSTEM
Why is it important to keep automobiles and heavy equipment off your septic system?
It's crucial to keep automobiles and heavy equipment off your septic system. Driving or parking on top of a tank or leach field can lead to damage. Brocken septic tanks, leach lines, and underground pipes are just a few issues you can have.
Pipe damage: The weight of a vehicle can crack or crush the plastic pipes within the drain field, causing leaks and wastewater to escape. It also can break a septic tank especially if is an old installation
Soil compaction: Driving over the drain field compacts the soil. It will reduce the natural water absorption of the dirt.
Root intrusion: Cracks in the pipes can allow tree roots to infiltrate the system, further obstructing flow. It will result in sewage to back up into your home.
How to ensure you don’t park or store equipment accidentally on top of your septic system?
Mark the area, clearly septic tank, and leach field included to avoid accidentally driving over it. Plant grass and cover the drain field with shallow-rooted grass to protect the soil and promote proper drainage.
STEP 8 : AVOID BAD CHEMICALS AND HARMFUL PRODUCTS IN YOUR SEPTIC TANK
Why is it important to avoid harmful products in your septic tank and septic system?
WARNING!!!! Never flash strong, harmful chemicals in your septic tank. They can kill the beneficial bacteria responsible for breaking down waste, leading to clogs, and system failure. Harsh chemicals like bleach, certain cleaning agents, and paint, drain clean will disrupt the natural process of waste decomposition.
Bacterial balance: Strong household chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. A septic system works on a fine balance which helps the breakdown of waste over a period.
Clogging and blockages: Non-biodegradable items like plastic, coffee grounds, and certain types of paper can clog your pipes and leach field, leading to backups and overflows.
Groundwater contamination: Harmful chemicals can leach into the surrounding groundwater, potentially contaminating drinking water sources.
Reduced system efficiency: A damaged septic system due to harsh chemicals will not function optimally, requiring more frequent pumping and maintenance.
Don't let this chemical enter your septic tank: Bleach, caustic drain cleaners, antibacterial soaps, paint thinner, paint, certain types of cleaning solvents, grease, oil, flushing non-biodegradable items like diapers, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes
How to avoid bad chemicals entering your septic system?
Use septic-safe cleaning products, designed to be biodegradable and less harmful. Dispose of fats, oils, and grease in separate containers and dispose of them appropriately. Read product labels carefully to ensure the products you use are safe for your septic system. Regularly maintain your septic system: by getting it pumped according to manufacturer recommendations.
STEP 10: USE PROFESSIONALS FOR INSPECTION AND PROBLEMS DIAGNOSTIC
Why is professional septic tank inspections are important:?
A septic professional will help with the early detection of potential issues. Small problems can escalate into major, costly repairs. Maintenance prevention will improve your septic system's health, the environment, and property value. Identifying leaks, clogs, or failing components will save you money and time.
Cost savings: Early detection of small issues prevents them from becoming large, expensive repairs
Health and safety: A malfunctioning septic system can leak raw sewage, contaminating groundwater and posing a health risk to occupants.
Environmental protection: Regular inspections ensure wastewater is treated properly, preventing environmental pollution.
Property value: A well-maintained septic system is considered a positive factor when selling a home, while a failing system can decrease its value.
Legal compliance: Many areas have regulations requiring regular septic tank inspections to ensure compliance with local laws.
What a professional septic inspection typically include?
Assessing the tank's structural integrity, checking for cracks, root intrusion or damage. Check Inlet outlet pipes and baffle wall. Examining the drain field for proper drainage. Checking the distribution box for functionality. Assessing the overall condition of the septic system and recommending necessary maintenance
RESIDENTIAL SEPTIC SERVICE AREA
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN IT COMES
TO SEPTIC TANK PUMP OUT?
Do you know where is your septic tank located?
Before septic tank pump out you should know your septic tank location. If you don’t know, here are some tips on how to find your septic tank.
House Plans or Records: If available, check your house plans or property records. They might indicate the septic tank's location.
As-Built Drawing: Contact the local health department or the septic system installer for an as-built drawing. It provides the exact location of the tank.
Visual Clues: Look for visual indicators such as manhole covers or inspection ports. They could be round or square lids usually made of plastic or concrete.
Follow the Plumbing: Trace the path of the main sewer line from your house to get an idea of where the tank might be buried.
Previous Service Records: If you've had the tank serviced before, the service provider might have noted the location. Review past maintenance records.
Professional Help: If you're unable to locate the tank, consider hiring a professional septic service provider. They often have tools like probes or electronic locators to find it accurately.
Do you know how to expose your septic tank lid?
Exposing your septic tank lid can be a bit of work. However, it is necessary for maintenance, septic pump out, and inspection. Here's a basic guide
Locating the Lid: Utilize the previously mentioned tips to locate your septic tank. Typically, it features 2 round or square covers made of plastic or concrete.
Gathering Tools: You'll require a shovel, a probe or metal rod, a crowbar or pry bar, a bucket, and possibly a hose.
Clearing the Area: Remove any debris or vegetation covering the lid. Be cautious not to damage nearby utilities or plumbing lines. Wear gloves and eye protection, and work cautiously to prevent injury.
Probing the Lid Edges: Gently use a probe or metal rod to outline the lid's edges. This helps determine its boundaries without causing damage.
Digging: Begin digging around the lid's edges with a shovel. Exercise caution to avoid harming the lid or any pipes.
Prying Open: After excavation around the lid, please wait for the Modern Septic Service team to arrive. We'll handle the lid opening for you.
Inspection: Be cautious after clearing the lid. Concrete and plastic lids may deteriorate over time and break under weight. Never step on them. Use a crowbar to tap the surface and check for solidity. Cease if it breaks or develops cracks. Measure the size and inform the Modern Septic Service Team to organize a lid replacement.
Securing the Dugout: Close up the excavation to prevent accidents. Ask the team to refill the hole after completing the septic tank pump-out."
Should you give instructions to the driver before arrival?
Always inform the septic tank driver about potential difficulties in accessing the septic tank on site, consider mentioning the following:
Terrain Obstacles: Describe any challenging terrain, such as steep slopes, uneven ground, or obstacles like rocks or trees that might hinder access.
Vegetation Cover: If the tank lid is obscured by dense vegetation, mention the need for clearing or trimming before accessing the lid.
Underground Utilities: Highlight the presence and location of any underground utilities or nearby pipes to prevent accidental damage during excavation.
Location Clarity: If the septic tank's exact location isn't clearly marked or known, communicate this to the driver, providing any guidance or information available to help them find it.
Access Space: Inform about limited access points, narrow pathways, or restricted space around the tank, which might impact maneuvering the pumping truck.
Lid Condition: If there are concerns about the lid's stability, such as cracks, decay, or potential fragility, alert the driver to exercise caution when working around it.
Safety Measures: Any specific safety precautions needed due to nearby hazards or conditions, like unstable ground, should also be communicated for the driver's awareness.