Frequently Asked Questions

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1. A septic system should generally be serviced every 2 to 3 years, but this can vary depending on factors such as:
   
   • Household size – More people means more wastewater and faster buildup.
   • Tank size – Smaller tanks may need more frequent pumping.
   • Water usage – Excessive water use can overload the system.
   • Garbage disposal use – Frequent use can increase solid waste in the tank.
   • Types of waste – Non-biodegradable or grease-heavy waste can lead to clogs.

Regular inspections (typically every 2 to 3 years) can help determine if your system needs servicing sooner. Also, be aware of signs like slow drains, sewage odors, or pooling water around the drain field, which indicate an urgent need for maintenance.

If you don’t get your septic tank pumped regularly, several problems can arise, including:

1. Sludge Buildup – Over time, solid waste (sludge) accumulates at the bottom of the tank, reducing its capacity and efficiency.
2. Drain Field Clogging – Excess sludge and scum can overflow into the drain field, clogging pipes and preventing proper wastewater absorption.
3. Slow Drains & Backups – As the tank fills up, sinks, toilets, and showers may drain slowly or even back up into your home.
4. Foul Odors – A full tank can cause sewage smells to seep into your yard or home.
5. Contamination – If wastewater isn’t properly processed, it can leak into the soil and contaminate nearby water sources, posing health risks.
6. Costly Repairs or Replacement – Neglecting septic maintenance can lead to expensive repairs or even complete system failure, requiring a new septic tank and drain field.

No, you should not drive on your septic tank, drain field, or any part of the septic system. The weight of a vehicle can cause serious damage, including:

• Crushing the tank – Most septic tanks are not designed to support heavy loads, which could lead to cracks or collapse.
• Damaging the drain field – The soil and pipes in the drain field can become compacted, reducing their ability to absorb and filter wastewater.
• Expensive repairs – Fixing a damaged septic system can be costly and might require full replacement.

If you need to drive over an area with a septic system, consider reinforcing it with a concrete or steel cover rated for vehicle traffic. Otherwise, it's best to avoid driving over it altogether.

 You shouldn't plant anything on your leach field (drain field) because it can interfere with its function and potentially cause damage. Here’s why:

1. Root Intrusion – Many plants, especially trees and shrubs, have deep or aggressive roots that can penetrate and clog the perforated pipes in the leach field, leading to system failure.

2. Moisture Disruption – Some plants take up too much water, affecting the natural filtration process and causing drainage problems.

3. Physical Damage – Heavy plants or structures can put pressure on the field, potentially damaging pipes or causing uneven wastewater distribution.

4. Access Issues – If maintenance is needed, having plants or structures in the way can make it difficult to inspect or repair the system.

If you want to plant something, opt for shallow-rooted grass or native ground covers that help prevent erosion without disturbing the drainage system. Avoid trees, shrubs, or anything with deep roots.

The snow melts on top of your septic tank because the tank generates heat as it holds and processes wastewater. Here are the main reasons why this happens:

1. Heat from Wastewater – The water coming from your house (showers, laundry, dishwashing, etc.) is often warm, which raises the temperature of the tank and the soil above it.
2. Bacterial Activity – Inside the septic tank, bacteria break down waste, a process that generates heat. This helps keep the surrounding soil warmer than other areas.
3. Shallow Placement – If your septic tank is relatively close to the surface, the warmth from the tank can more easily reach the snow above, causing it to melt faster than in other areas.
4. Less Insulation from Soil – If the soil above your tank is thinner or has less vegetation, it provides less insulation, allowing heat to escape more readily and melt the snow.
5. Lid or Access Covers – If your septic tank lid or access covers are exposed or made of concrete or plastic, they can transfer heat more directly to the snow, speeding up the melting process.

If you notice excessive snowmelt over your tank, it could indicate heat loss from your home’s wastewater, which might suggest a leaky or inefficient system. However, in most cases, it's just a natural result of the heat generated by normal septic functions.

1. Good question! Proper septic system care is important to prevent backups and costly repairs. Here’s a breakdown of what you can and can’t put down your septic system:

 
        ✅ Safe to Put Down Your Septic:

• Human waste & toilet paper (use septic-safe TP)
• Mild, biodegradable cleaners (vinegar, baking soda, or plant-based cleaners)
• Small amounts of dish soap & laundry detergent (preferably low-phosphate and septic-safe)
• Wastewater from sinks, showers, and washing machines

         ❌ Never Put These Down Your Septic:

• Grease, fats, and oils (they clog pipes and disrupt bacteria)
• Non-biodegradable items (baby wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, floss, diapers, etc.)
• Harsh chemicals (bleach, drain cleaners, pesticides, paint, antifreeze—these kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank)
• Medications (antibiotics and chemicals can harm the bacteria balance)
• Coffee grounds & food scraps (even with a garbage disposal, these can clog your system)
• Flushable wipes (despite the name, they don’t break down well in septic systems)
• Extra Tips for a Healthy Septic System:
  ✔️ Pump your tank every 2-3 years (depends on usage)
  ✔️ Fix leaks to avoid overloading the system
  ✔️ Divert rainwater away from the drain field
  ✔️ Use water efficiently (spreading out laundry loads, using low-flow fixtures)
  

Finding your septic tank can be tricky, but here are some steps to help locate it:

         1. Check Property Records

• Look at the "as-built" drawings or a site plan of your home. These might be available from your local health department or building office.
• If you recently purchased the home, check the inspection report.

        2. Follow the Sewer Line

• Find where your sewer pipe exits your home (usually in the basement or crawlspace).
• Measure about 10-25 feet straight out from the house in that direction.                                    

        3. Look for Clues in the Yard

• Grass Patterns – The tank area may have greener grass or a slight mound.
• Sunken Ground – Over time, the soil over the tank may settle.
• Manhole Covers or Lids – Sometimes they are visible just beneath the grass.

         4. Use a Metal Probe or Rod

• Carefully push a thin metal probe (like a soil probe) into the ground every few feet to feel for a solid surface.

         5. Use a Septic Tank Locator or Flushable Transmitter

• Some hardware stores rent out electronic septic tank locators.
• You can also flush a septic tank locator device (a small, trackable transmitter) down the toilet and track it.

         6. Call a Septic Professional

• If you're still unsure, a septic service company can locate it quickly using specialized tools.

 The average lifespan of a septic system in New Hampshire typically ranges from 20 to 40 years, depending on factors such as maintenance, soil conditions, water usage, and system type. Proper care, including regular pumping (every 2-3 years), avoiding excess water use, and not flushing harmful substances, can help extend its life. Harsh winters and high groundwater levels in some areas may impact longevity as well.