Questions About Septic Systems

Questions Applicable to All types of Septic Systems

Do I need to obtain a permit to repair my septic system?

es. With few exceptions, Florida law requires an approved permit to repair any type of septic system. This law is intended to assure that the person making the repairs is experienced and understands the correct procedures and processes for repairing a system. The law is in place to protect the environment as well as the homeowner and his neighbors.

What is the process for obtaining a repair or installation permit?

In Florida septic system repair and installation permits are issued through your county health department. The permit application considers the type of soil, placement of the system relative to wells, rivers, lakes and property lines, as well as the type of septic system to be repaired or replaced and the installation or repair plan. Each county maintains a list of licensed septic service companies. Because of the potential difficulties involved in obtaining permits, most service providers require the homeowner to complete and file the application. In most instances we, at CleanEarth Environmental, are able to handle these details for our customers.

Can I flush toliet paper into my system?

All septic systems are designed to properly process toilet paper. The size of the holding tank is based on the number of bedrooms in the home. Commercially manufactured toilet paper is septic system safe. Therefore, so long as the system is not required to handle more wastewater than it was designed to handle, there should be no problem using toilet paper.

How often do I need to have my system pumped?

This answer depends on the size of the system and the number of people using the system. However, for the average household, the answer is every two to three years. Your cleanearth environmental professional can help you determine how often you should pump your septic

Do I need to add additives to my system?

In most instances additives are necessary to maintain a properly functioning septic system. However, sometimes a system will become overloaded with organic material and the enzymes and bacteria in additives can actually help. This can occur when a system is temporarily required to process more waste than it was designed to process, such as instances when their are frequent large parties or extra guests for an extended period of time. The need for these supplements is the best and inexpensive maintenance protocol

Questions Specific to Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Systems

How do I renew my Aerobic System maintenance contract?

Each aerobic system comes with a two year maintenance contract that commences the day the installation process is complete. This service is initially provided by the installation company. Since most systems are relatively easily maintained during the first two years, some installers do not offer maintenance beyond that initial period. It then falls to the homeowner to find a licensed service provider who is trained and qualified to maintain the homeowner's specific brand of aerobic system. When you sign up with CleanEarth Environmental, your maintenance contract is automatically renewed each year.

What services are provided under by a maintenance contract?

Typical maintenance contracts provide for two system inspections per year to certify that the system is operating properly. Expenses associated with repairs, chlorine, and pumping (when required) are the responsibility of the homeowner. At CleanEarth Environmental, we offer three levels of maintenance contract service. Our customers choose the contract that is right for their situation.

What activities are performed during a routine maintenance visit?

This will vary between service providers. At cleanearth environmental, we inspect and clean all electrical and mechanical components to ensure proper functionality. We also check the bio mate build up in the drain field. In addition we check the sludge level in your holding tank. Upon completion of the inspection we provide our customers with a written report of our findings.

HOw important are the air and water pumps on an aerobic system?

Both pumps are essential to proper operation of a system. The air pump is used to aerate the wastewater and speed the processes of decomposition. The water pump is used to force the discharge water through the spray lines and onto to the land surface. If either fails to operate properly the wastewater will turn septic. This may be observed as black, smelly water being discharged by the system.

Is the water that is discharged by an aerobic system safe?

All commercially certified aerobic systems produce safe water when properly maintained. The water is treated to kill or eliminate pathogens before they can be discharged through the spray field. However, the water is not treated to the level where it is considered safe to drink or drinkable.

Why does my aerobic system have an unpleasant odor?

The most common reasons for aerobic system odors are: 1) Overloading the system with chemicals, 2) the presence of a restriction in the air supply, 3) more wastewater input to the system than it was designed to handle, and 4) inadequate disinfectant supply. Diagnosing the cause of odors is a difficult process that is best left to your septic system professional.

Questions Specific to Non-Aerobic Wastewater Systems

How can I tell where the problems is with my non-aerobic septic system?

We offer a diagnostic tool on our website that will help you identify the section of your system that is causing a problem.