Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS), or septic systems are simple and effective solutions to treat wastewater. With proper use and regular maintenance, septic systems can last for many years. However, to do so it is important for homeowners to understand the different components of a septic system and how they work. 

Septic systems are a vital component of a home and can be very costly to repair or replace, so it is important for homeowners to know how to perform basic maintenance procedures on their septic systems. By doing so will help ensure that a system operates as it was intended and will maximize the life of the system.

It is crucial that the structural integrity of a septic tank remains in tact, so that it is able to house the wastewater as well as help the seperated effluent continue its journey to the leach field. Once a tank loses its integrity it becomes a safety hazard and will need to be replaced by a septic professional. 

Once a failure occurs the septic system will stop processing wastewater properly. If a homeowner suspects that their leach field may be in a state of failure there are a few indicators that may help confirm that suspicion.

It is important for every homeowner that lives on a septic system to know where their septic tank(s) is located. This allows for proper maintenance to be performed on the tank. However, if a homeowner doesn't know where their tank is buried, how can it be located?

It is equally important for homeowners to know the location of their leach field as much as the location of the septic tank. If the leach field soil is allowed to compact it will greatly reduce the life of the field. So in order to maintain the integrity and life of a homeowners leach field, it is imperative the location be known. 

If everything in a home is working properly, then all odors from a septic system should travel through a home's plumbing and be released out the vent stacks located on the roof. Sometimes issues may arise that can cause those odors to be released inside the home instead of through the vent stacks. If you are experiencing this here are some potential solutions to eliminate odors inside your home.

A properly functioning septic system will treat all wastewater generated from a home. If all components are functioning as designed then homeowners should not experience any unpleasant odors outside their home. If, however, septic odors are experienced here are some of the possible issues a system may be exhibiting, and how to correct them.

If a new septic system is to be installed or a failing system is in need of replacement, several steps must be completed in order to finish the project. If you are new to septic systems and have never gone through the process of installation or replacement, here is a brief step by step of the process to help a homeowner be successful.

A question that comes up very frequently not only by homeowners with currently failed systems, but also individuals looking to build a new home. Here is a breakdown of what a professional will need in ordere to create an accurate quote.