subject: Are You Getting Regular Septic Tank Inspections [print this page] Are You Getting Regular Septic Tank Inspections
Septic systems require regular inspection and repair for proper functioning. The factors which influence the amount of work required in the maintenance are the size of the tank, the extent of its use by the household and the amount of water used in it. These factors influence how frequently the inspections are needed, but it must be kept in mind that even the best maintained septic systems require regular inspection.The septic tank inspector is usually a qualified private contractor or a health professional with the local health administration. You can get in contact in one through your local health administration or the municipality. The health department will give you a list of the septic tank inspectors who work locally. Most waste experts will require a fee for the job.Locating the Septic TankIf you have purchased a new house, or have forgotten where the septic system is, the first job is to locate the septic tank. Septic tank inspectors take a fee for this job - so to save money and time you better find it yourself before the inspector comes.If you are unable to do it yourself, the waste inspector has a number of methods to find a tank.Sludge Judge and Tank InspectionThe waste expert inspects the condition and status of the solid waste in your septic tank using a device called a Sludge Judge. It is a long pipe that is hollowed out to allow waste to enter it from the bottom. When inserted in the septic tank waste, it takes a core sample of the solid waste. The inspector then visually inspects core sample to get an idea of the amount of solid and sludge contained in the tank and how decomposed they are. That then helps him decide whether to pump the tank or not.The inspector also checks that the tank has remained watertight. He also checks the various components and parts of the system, along with the construction of the tank itself. Septic tank inspections are well worth the money if they help you find a problem early, before it becomes costly.Often times, the septic tank inspector also supplies the replacement parts for your system. Some people thing this is a problem because the inspector may say a part needs replacing right away when it would last two or three more years. It is up to your discretion to decide if you want to make the replacements the inspector suggests.
