Answers to Common Questions
How often should I pump my septic tank?
Most tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on system size and household usage.
What is the difference between a conventional septic system and an aerobic system?
A conventional system uses a drain field and bacteria for treatment. An aerobic system uses oxygen and mechanical parts to treat wastewater to a higher standard.
How often should my aerobic system be serviced?
Texas requires aerobic systems to be serviced 3–4 times per year by a licensed provider.
Why is my aerobic system alarm going off?
Is it safe to use household cleaners with my septic system?
The alarm signals a problem like a high water level, pump failure, aerator issue, or power loss. Don’t ignore it — call for service.
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*link to trouble shooting “RED light on”
*link to trouble shooting “AMBER light on”
Use septic-safe cleaners sparingly. Avoid heavy use of bleach, antibacterial soaps, and harsh chemicals.
What can I flush down the toilet with a septic or aerobic system?
Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Do not flush wipes, feminine products, grease, or chemicals.
How can I protect my drain field?
Don’t drive, park, or plant large trees over the drain field. Keep extra water (from sprinklers or gutters) away from it.
How much water can my system handle?
Spread out water use, fix leaks quickly, and avoid sending large volumes of water into the system at once.
What are the signs of a failing septic system?
Watch for slow drains, sewage odors, wet spots in the yard, sewage backups, or frequent alarm sounds.
Do I need a maintenance contract for my aerobic system?
Yes — Texas law requires aerobic systems to be under a maintenance contract with a licensed provider.
Where do I add Chlorine? How much Chlorine do I add?
Chlorine is put in the chlorine reservoir. IMPORTANT! DO NOT PUT LIQUID BLEACH IN A TABLET CHLORINATOR OR VISE VERSA.
Liquid Chlorinator
Any type of liquid household bleach is acceptable. If the bleach is concentrated, dilute to a one to one ratio. The bleach reservoir usually holds around three gallons. Depending on monthly wastewater entering system, average use varies from 1-3 gallons a month.
Tablet Chlorinator
“Sanitary” chlorine tablets are required. DO NOT use swimming pool chlorine tablets, doing so could cause bodily harm and/or damage equipment or property. DO NOT put in more than four tablets at a time. Depending on monthly wastewater entering system, average usage varies from 1-2 tablets a week.
IMPORTANT! DO NOT PUT LIQUID BLEACH IN A TABLET CHLORINATOR OR VISE VERSA.
Does a water softener affect my septic system?
Yes, in different ways depending on what type of salt is used, how much salt is used, and where the drain is plumbed.
Potassium salt is more corrosive on the pump, but effects bacteria and plant life less than sodium salt.
Sodium salt is less corrosive on the pump, but effects bacteria and plant life more than potassium salt.
Can I turn off my aerobic system to "save money"?
An aerobic treatment unit should NOT be turned off for two main reasons:
1 – The bacteria in your aerobic septic system will start to die from lack of oxygen supplied by the compressor, creating a foul odor when turned back on and less clean effluent from the sprinklers.
2 – The wastewater in the system will fill up and flood all compartments of the tank, mixing solids throughout system, creating the potential for the pump to be come clogged, and less clean effluent from the sprinklers.