Dodd Construction is licensed and certified by the State of Alabama to install and repair basic and advanced septic systems, including sewer pumps.
- Learn the location of your tank and field lines
- Don't flush anything solid but toilet paper!
- Don't flush feminine products.
- Don't park vehicles over your tank or field lines.
- Don't cover your tank or field lines with concrete or asphalt.
- Don't dig in your field lines.
- Pump your septic tank every 3 - 5 years.
- Keep your septic tank lid and clean-outs easily accessible.
- Don't plant anything but grass over your tank and lines.
- Additives and cleaners are not necessary.
- Don't put grease into your sink drains.
- Divert down spout and surface water runoff away from your septic drain field.
- Don't install a sprinkler system or swimming pool nearby your system.
- Don't build anything over your tank or field lines.
How Does My Septic System Work?
Drain pipes from your house carry wastewater, by gravity, to your septic tank. The solids settle to the bottom of the tank, while the water rises until it spills over the baffle into the secondary chamber. Fats, oils, and grease will float to the top, creating a scum layer. If any solids migrate to the secondary chamber of the septic tank, they are retained by a filter. (This filter needs occasional removing and rinsing to prevent it from clogging, preventing the wastewater from exiting the tank.) The wastewater is distributed to the field lines, where it is absorbed by the soil through perforated pipes.
The scum layer and solids will need to be pumped out routinely, in order to prevent solid waste buildup from entering your field lines and clogging them up. There are signs that alert you to know when your tank is past due for being pumped out. Some septic systems are equipped with an audible alarm that will sound if your system needs attention. If your home's drain pipes are clear of debris, but water begins to gurgle or back up into your sinks and tubs, your tank may be full. If you notice foul odors coming from your household drains, wastewater may be backing up from your overly full septic tank. If you notice water pooling on top of the tank or field lines, your field lines may be clogged with tree roots or solids from your tank. Incredibly lush and green grass growth over your tank and field lines may indicate that your grass plants are taking up very nutrient-rich wastewater.
If your home has an older septic system that does not have risers at ground level, we can install risers that prevent the soil over your tank from being excavated every time you need to maintenance your system.