Your septic system is one of the most useful aspects of your home. When it decides to go on the fritz due to poor maintenance or improper items being sent through the system, this is a huge problem. Some homeowners may think that they can simply solve the issue on their own and get down and dirty with their septic tank.
As septic experts, we are here to tell you that this is a horrible idea. Outside of septic repairs, here are five septic system tips that every homeowner should keep in mind.
1. Do Not Enter Your Septic Tank!
This may seem like an obvious warning, but some people think that if a professional can do it, they can too. Well, a professional is trained and honed in their craft. They understand that if their job is not performed with every safety aspect in mind, contact with the inside of a septic tank can be fatal.
Your septic tank is full of toxic gasses that can only be protected against through special equipment, gear, and breathing apparatuses.
2. Do Not Work on Your Septic System Alone
If you do have the training to pump your septic system, never work alone. Even leaning over an open tank or cesspool can be deadly. The fumes and methane gas can overcome you, causing you to pass out and fall into the tank. As mentioned before, falling into a tank can be a fatal turn of events.
3. Keep Flames Away from Your Septic Tank
Methane gas is explosive and easily ignited. Lighting a flame over, in, or even near the tank can result in a large explosion and burns on the body. Even lighting a mere cigarette near the tank can set off an explosion that can be extremely harmful to nearby buildings or people.
4. Make Sure That the Site is Properly Ventilated
Ventilation is important when dealing with waste and toxic gases involved with septic systems. By ensuring that the septic tank is properly ventilated you are helping to make the site safer when professionals do need to come in and perform maintenance or repairs.
5. Cover Your Tank!
Don’t just cover your tank; make sure that you are using a sturdy septic tank lid. These lids and covers allow for easy maintenance and access and are essential to your system. The right tank cover will be childproof and sturdy so that regardless of where the tank is located, only a trained professional can gain access to this dangerous yet necessary system.
Leave Your System in the Hands of Professionals
Avoid the many dangers involved with septic system pumping and repairs. Unless you have the experience required to properly work on your tank, the chances of you harming yourself are high.
If you need your septic system emptied or are having issues with your tank, contact Texas Johns today for professional help. By reaching out to us, you will quickly learn about the excellent septic tank services that we offer.