Southern Water and Soil - Septic Experts

Southern Water and Soil, Inc., completed a drainfield replacement project in Lutz, Florida. The drainfield was expanded due to poor performance of the previous septic system. The original drainfield was much smaller in size and did not have enough drainfield installed for the amount of water used. If you are having drainfield drainage problems or slow draining plumbing due to your septic system drainfield then give SWS a call. We are available to diagnose your septic system problems. At SWS, we want you to be educated as to what is the best drainfield system for your home.

SWS Three-Step Maintenance

By Amanda Furmage-Deck

Everyone knows that in order to increase the life of a vehicle, it must undergo routine, preventive maintenance which can include changing the engine oil, replacing the brake pads, and adjusting the alignment. In addition, the exterior of a vehicle should be washed and waxed on a regular basis to ensure the removal of dust, dirt, grime and any other foreign materials that could adhere to and damage the paint.

Caring for a septic system is just like caring for a vehicle in that a decentralized wastewater system’s life can be extended through routine, preventive maintenance. The experts at Southern Water and Soil, Inc. perform a three-step maintenance program in order to increase the longevity of your septic system.

1.      Regular Septic Tank Pumping Service

Many contractors recommend that a septic tank be pumped every three to five years. However, not all septic systems are the same. Southern Water and Soil will examine the size of your tank, the age of the system, the number of occupants in the home, if you use a garbage disposal, the amount of laundry done per week within the home, and the drain field soil before deciding how often your septic tank should be pumped.

Routine, preventive septic system maintenance is extremely important. Just like a vehicle, repairing or replacing a failing wastewater treatment system can be extremely expensive. When compared to replacing an entire septic system for thousands of dollars, routine pumping prices are significantly less, averaging just $100 to $300 per year.

Secondly, clogged or damaged septic systems can result in an expensive and unwanted mess. Not only can toilets back up after flushing and foul odors saturate the air, but toxic sewage can appear on the surface of your lawn which can generate severe threats to public health, pollute nearby bodies of water used for commercial and recreational activities, and decrease property values.

2.      Bacteria and Enzyme Additive

Southern Water and Soil, Inc. will go the extra mile to ensure the safety of your family, your community, and the environment by adding one cup of a bacteria and enzyme additive to your system at the time of service. This additive keeps your waste water pipes clean, destroys plumbing odors, and decomposes organic waste. Rather than pouring a commercial chemical additive down your drain that can potentially destroy the beneficial drain field bacteria, put your trust in SWS’s proven bacteria and enzyme septic tank shock treatment.

3.      Effluent Filter

A septic tank effluent filter is an important aspect of a wastewater treatment system as it acts as a strainer, preventing hair, grime, and other solid particles from entering and clogging the drain field pipes. Therefore, solids are retained in the tank, enhancing their decomposition. Southern Water and Soil recommends this filtration unit be cleaned during each septic tank pumping.

If it’s time for your septic system to undergo routine, preventive maintenance, and you live in Hillsborough, Pasco, or Pinellas Counties, contact Southern Water and Soil today. You can trust them for their experience, quality products, and quality customer service. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

Diagnosing a Drain Field Failure

By Amanda Furmage-Deck

When household plumbing features back up, effluent appears on the surface of your lawn, and foul odors permeate the air, your septic system may be damaged. Although a simple septic tank pumping can solve most wastewater problems, sometimes the issue may lurk below the surface. Your drain field may be in danger.

As discussed in the previous post, drain fields play a vital role within the septic system. After exiting the septic tank, wastewater flows into the drain field pipes where it’s later absorbed and cleaned by the soil below. The drain field is an on-site wastewater recycling center and, without this significant feature, your septic system will not work.

Not only do the experts at Southern Water and Soil, Inc. install new drain fields, they will also repair failing drain field systems. Owner Greg Mayfield has over 20 years experience in environmental science and wastewater management and can quickly diagnose any drain field dilemma. Below are some things Southern Water and Soil will look for when examining your failing drain field.

Broken Drain Field Pipes

Drain field pipes can be found deep beneath your grassy lawn. However, activity taking place on the surface can cause significant damage to your system. Building structures such as patios, pools, and carports on top of, driving and parking vehicles over, and allowing large livestock to graze around the drain field can compact the surrounding soil. Soil compaction can result in depleted soil oxygen levels and cracked pipes. Nearby trees and shrubs can also break drain pipes as roots are attracted to the nutrient-rich soil surrounding the drain field.

Water Saturated Drain Field Soil Absorption Area

High water tables, poor soil conditions, and rainfall run-off can flood the soil absorption area that lies below the drain field pipes. When the soil absorption area is saturated, effluent can’t move down. Instead, untreated wastewater will seep up onto the surface of your lawn.

Unbalanced Bio-mat Bacteria

Two types of bacteria are present in a conventional septic drain field: aerobic (uses oxygen) and anaerobic (doesn’t use oxygen). When nutrient-rich wastewater enters the soil absorption area, a natural bio-mat or biofilm forms. This layer is composed of beneficial aerobic and anaerobic bacteria that slow down the flow of effluent while breaking down organic waste and removing pathogens at the same time. Without the bio-mat, wastewater would not be treated and could pollute the water table.

Bio-Mat Under Drainfield

The more a septic system is used, the less aerobic bacteria is present in the soil. As a result, anaerobic bacteria builds up and slows down the draining system to the point that the soil cannot absorb any more water. An unbalanced bio-film can cause the entire septic system to fail.

Tipped Distribution Box

Effluent enters the distribution box, or D-box, before flowing into the drain field pipes. The purpose of D-box is to ensure effluent is distributed evenly throughout the drain field system. On occasion, the D-box can tip or clog, causing one drain field line to flood.

Clogged Drain Field Pipes

When septic tanks aren’t pumped regularly, solids can build up in the tank and enter the drain field. Most of the time, these solids are composed of biodegradable materials that can be removed with special products or equipment. Yet, sometimes non-biodegradable substances such as disposable diapers and plastic products can clog the pipes, causing more significant damage to your septic system. To prevent sludge and scum build-up in your drain field lines, follow these helpful guidelines.

When your drain field is a problem, Southern Water and Soil, Inc. has the cost-effective solution you need. Be sure to call the SWS experts before a septic system disaster occurs.

Types of Drain Fields

By Amanda Furmage-Deck

Drain fields, also known as leach fields or leach drains, play a very crucial role within the septic system. These subsurface structures clean wastewater before it returns to the water cycle. Essentially, drain fields act as natural water recycling centers.

Before traveling to the drain field, wastewater enters the septic tank where it’s separated into sludge (heavy, sinking solids) and scum (floating solids such as oil and grease). Liquid waste, commonly known as effluent or grey water, can be found in between the sludge and scum layers. As new raw sewage enters the tank, the old wastewater is displaced and pushed toward the drain field.

When installing a new septic system, the experts at Southern Water and Soil, Inc. will design a drain field that best fits the features of your property according to municipal and state codes. They will examine the size of your lawn, soil type, water table depth, and other topographical features to ensure quality wastewater filtration.

Standard In-Ground Drain Fields

Standard drain fields consist of perforated pipes buried in a series of trenches filled with a porous material, usually gravel or sand, and covered with soil. Powered by gravity, the water slowly trickles through the pipes and into the soil which acts as a natural filter, capturing impurities before the water reaches the water table.

Drip Irrigation Drain Fields

Drip irrigation, also known as trickle, micro, or localized irrigation, is quickly becoming a popular choice among property owners for its “green” features. Unlike conventional gravity-based systems, pressurized drip irrigation drain fields recycle virtually 100 percent of treated wastewater, delivering it slowly to root zones of trees, plants, and shrubs. This advanced system requires much less space compared to traditional drain fields, allowing for the construction of larger homes on smaller lots and more usable yard space. Southern Water and Soil experts use Geoflow technologies when installing drip irrigation systems.

Plastic Chamber Drain Fields

These drain fields consist of large plastic vaulted chambers that require less land than conventional drain field systems. Wastewater flows freely into these chambers from the septic tank and is filtered directly into the soil. In other words, gravel or other porous materials are not needed with plastic chamber drain fields, significantly cutting the installation costs. Southern Water and Soil use Infiltrator products when installing plastic chamber drain fields.

Multi-Pipe Drain Fields

Offering sufficient storage space during periods of high demand or high rain, the Multi-Pipe system is a patented drain field product designed by Plastic Tubing Industries, Inc. The experts at Southern Water and Soil will install this gravel-less alternative system in areas with limited space or difficult topographical features.

Mound Drain Fields

Mound drain fields are raised bed septic systems constructed in areas where soil is not suitable for wastewater disposal. These areas consist of those containing extremely permeable soil with high water tables, soils with very slow infiltration rates, and very rocky sites.

Caring for Your Septic System

By Amanda Furmage

Last week, we discussed how damaged septic systems can result in an unwanted mess. Not only can septic system failure threaten public health, the environment, and property value, but it can also be extremely expensive. In fact, installation of a new septic system can cost thousands of dollars.

The experts at Southern Water and Soil are always available to thoroughly inspect your entire septic system before it becomes a massive problem. Inspections should take place every three to five years. In the meantime, care for your wastewater system by following these simple tips:

Hazardous Household Chemicals

Your septic system contains the bacteria needed to digest and treat waste. Pouring hazardous household chemicals down the drain kills these beneficial organisms. Instead, take the following chemicals to an area hazardous waste collection center for disposal:

• Oil-based paints
• Paint thinners
• Wood stains
• Gasoline
• Motor Oil
• Pesticides
• Antifreeze

In addition, use bleach, disinfectants, toilet bowl cleaners, and drain cleaning gels sparingly. Try to purchase cleaners that are nontoxic and septic safe.

Solid Waste

In addition to chemicals, non-degradable solid waste can disrupt your septic system by increasing the scum and sludge layers within the tank. Never use your toilet to dispose of cat litter, diapers, feminine hygiene products, facial tissues, coffee grounds, cigarette butts and filters, cotton swabs, dental floss, plastic products, and other items that could clog your system.

Garbage disposals double the solid layers within your septic tank. In fact, experts suggest homeowners suspend or lower the use of garbage disposals to reduce the amount of grease and waste that can clog the system.

Commercial Additives

Beware of commercial septic tank additives as they can potentially destroy your system, or are useless at best. Instead, have Southern Water and Soil introduce their trusted bacteria and enzyme additive to your tank during pumping and inspection.

Outdoor Care

Maintain the external structure of your septic system by planting only grass above and near the tank and drainfield to minimize soil erosion. Trees and shrubs should be at least 100 feet away from any septic system component to discourage damage from roots.

Avoid further damage by not driving over the septic system as the weight from your vehicle can compress the surrounding soil.

Finally, direct all outdoor drainage systems away from the septic system drainfield to avoid excessive flooding.

Household Water Use

If possible, replace old household appliances and plumbing fixtures such as washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets to reduce water use. High-efficiency toilets use 1.6 gallons of water less per flush than older fixtures, while high-efficiency washing machines use up to 35 percent less energy and 50 percent less water.

If you cannot afford new appliances, reduce your water use by placing aerators on faucets, flow reducers on shower heads, and displacers on toilets. Moreover, don’t run the dishwasher unless full, and choose the proper load size on your washing machine. Also, instead of doing load after load of laundry in one day, spread the work out over the week to allow your septic tank enough time to adequately treat wastewater.

For more helpful tips on caring for your septic system, contact Southern Water and Soil. They are always ready to help and have the experience and knowledge necessary to answer all your wastewater-related questions.

When it rains there are several things to consider to help your septic system endure during these times. First of all have your septic system maintenance prior to the summer rains. Make sure the septic system is completely sealed with septic tank risers and lids that create water tight connections. A leaking septic tank can allow rain water and roof runoff enter the septic tank and wash solids into your drainfield. This can cause a premature failure of your septic system and cause the septic system to back up in the house.

Making sure that roof gutters and downspouts are directed away from your septic system is imperative. This will eliminate excess water from entering the system and allow your septic system to function properly. If the septic tank is older than 10-15 years old you need to have the tank checked for leaks and structural integrity. As concrete ages there can be cracks and structural problems that can occur. In times of rain events and where the water table is high can change the functioning of the septic system.

Rain water can take up drainage space where your drainfield usually drains out. As the water table comes up and there is more rain then there is nowhere for water to go except back into the house. A drainage plan can be developed to ease stress placed on your septic system from rain storms.

Southern Water and Soil, Inc., can help you design a septic system that provides protection from rain water and drainage issues. Give us a call or shoot us an email.

Risers and lids that seal the septic system.

SWS is a licensed septic tank contractor and septic engineering company located in Tampa, Florida. If you need a septic system drain line repair then call the company with the certification and septic know how. SWS has the experience and education to get your septic system functioning again. Septic drain field problems can be very frustrating especially when the septage is backing up into your home. Allow SWS to help you with your septic system needs today. Call 813-785-0500 for a drain line estimate.

Septic Drainfield Installation

If you suspect septic system problems in Tampa FL, Southern Water and Soil will evaluate your system and offer cost effective solutions for your septic needs.

Little can go wrong with the septic tank itself. Tanks sometimes suffer structural damage and/or deteriorate, but problems occur most often in the plumbing or in the drainfield.

If your plumbing backs up suddenly under normal use in dry weather, temporary blockage is the most probable cause. Blockages in the pipe between the home and septic tank can usually be cleared with plumbing equipment. Some pipe blockages caused by tree roots entering the drainpipes develop over a period of time. A professional may be able to clear these blockages.

More serious difficulties occur when the soil surrounding the drainfield becomes clogged. When sludge and scum is not removed periodically (every three years for dwellings and every year for commercial establishments) from the tank, they accumulate until they are transported out into the drainfield. The carry-over of solids from the septic tank is the most common cause of drainfield failure. When no maintenance is performed, the perforated distribution drain pipe or the pores in the earth walls of the soil absorption system become clogged.

You can suspect a malfunctioning drainfield if:

1. There are odors, persistent wet spots and/or lush green growth in any areas of your system.

2. Your drains becomes sluggish over a period of time.

3. Your system backs up into a shower or tub.

4. Problems persist even though the septic tank has been pumped/cleaned recently.

5. Strong odors in the yard.

Contact Southern Water and Soil for a free estimate for your septic system needs. 

When do I need to call a septic contractor?

• ·         I need a new septic tank
• ·         Someone just drove over my backyard and now my septic system is not working.  How do I know if I have damaged my system?
• ·         A tree has grown over my drainfield and my toilets make a gurgling noise and I have slow drains.
• ·         My septic is backing up.
• ·         I want to build a new home or an addition.
• ·         My yard is flooded and it has not rained in weeks.
• ·         My yard has a very strong odor.
• ·         How do I know whether the septic system is properly designed and large enough to serve the number of people in my home?
• ·         My tank was pumped and the company said I need a drainfield repair.

Services provided by Southern Water and Soil, a Licensed Septic System Contractor

Southern Water and Soil, a licensed Septic System Contractor can assist in all of the above services and more.   Southern Water and Soil services include but not limited to:

• ·         Inspections of septic systems including tanks, drainfields, pumps, etc
• ·         Septic tank pumping
• ·         Installation and Repairs of drainfields
• ·         Rejuvenation of failing drainfields
• ·         Engineering
• ·         Complex system designs and solutions
• ·         Maintenance of septic systems

Southern Water and Soil provides free estimates and cost effective solutions for all your septic needs.

How To Hire A Licensed Septic System Contractor

The nature of the work that septic system contractors perform requires that they be properly trained and licensed, such as, Southern Water and Soil, a Licensed Septic System Contractor.

Septic system contractors install, repair and clean wastewater treatment systems. In Florida, before contractors can start to perform on-site work on septic or sewage disposal systems they must be licensed by the Department Of Health.  To insure that septic system workers comply with the requirement, the department maintains a list of licensed septic system contractor. Southern Water and Soil is recognized by the DOH as a Licensed Septic System Contractor.

If you are lucky, you may have relatives, or neighbors who can recommend a Licensed Septic System Contractor. When personal recommendations are not available, you have to be extra diligent.   When trying to choose between septic contractors, be aware that if your new home has a lot with difficult soil conditions, or an unusual layout, you may need to install a more complex septic system that will cost more than your average installed septic system.  The more complex the septic system is, the more important it is to find the right septic contractor for the job.  Southern Water and Soil, a Licensed Septic System Contractor has installed numerous complex systems and has an engineer and former DOH inspector on staff to assist and answer any questions.

Septic Contractors need a professional design of your septic system to know exactly what installing your septic system entails. The materials required, the location, shape, size and capacity of the septic tank should be specified on the design. Make sure the septic contractors give you a price quote for the entire project to include cost of all materials and labor.  As a Licensed Septic System Contractor, Southern Water and Soil will provide a detailed quote listing several solutions for your septic system problems.

Always ask Septic Contractors for references. Follow up on these references. Ask if the contractor is a Licensed Septic System Contractor and whether the job was done in a timely and professional manner. Also, did the septic contractor cause as little damage as possible to the surrounding site? How has the septic system operated since the installation? Has it done so properly without any problems?  Southern Water and Soil, a Licensed Septic System Contractor will provide a reference list for all jobs quoted.

Also, make sure that the septic contractors have all the proper insurance. Remember, this Septic Contractor is going to be installing a vital part of your home. You will want to make sure that you are protected in every way. Make sure the septic contractor has a valid certificate of insurance before the Septic Contractors begin their work.  Southern Water and Soil, a Licensed Septic System Contractor can supply current and up to date insurance coverage information.  We encourage the homeowner to contact our insurance company to verify the insurance is in place and up to date. 

When you award the contract for the work, be sure it details the cost, payment schedule, start date and an estimated completion date. Make sure a guarantee of the work is specified in the contract. Let your septic contractor get the supplies necessary to install your new septic tank and septic system. There are a number of different materials and components needed for a septic system, including the septic tank and related components like septic sand and piping. It is best for the homeowner to leave it to the Licensed Septic System Contractor, such as Southern Water and Soil; after all, that is the reason you did all of the research on them beforehand. The contractor must order a large amount of material to begin the job and will probably need a substantle deposit before the work begins.  Southern Water and Soil, a Licensed Septic System Contractor will provide a contract before they begin the work on the system.  This protects all parties involved, leaving no questions unanswered.

If you are looking for a professional, Licensed Septic System Contractor, contact Southern Water and Soil. Southern Water and Soil will make you feel confident in your decision and in the work they have contracted to perform.