It's sunny out with no clouds in sight. You think it is a day as good as any to do some summer grilling. You step out onto your backyard, your stainless steel spatula and tongs in hand, and then you see it: patches of mud in your yard. You walk over thinking it's just a dead patch of grass but as you make your way over you notice the ground is wet and slightly spongy, almost as if it's been heavily watered. Except it hasn't. You don't make much of it. In fact, you go on as usual. But the next day you wake up and there's a pool of sewage excrement in your yard and it reeks.
While not legally mandated, a septic filter can be a crucial addition to any septic system. Not only can it help your septic system perform at peak efficiency, but it also serves as extra protection to your drain field, and the overall lifespan of your septic system. If you think your home could benefit from a septic filiter (hint: it will), Scorpion Septic specializes in septic system installations and repairs.
What Is a Septic System Filter
A septic system filter, also known as an effluent filter, is a small cylindrical device that when installed, acts as a barrier, blocking off any sludge, lint, or debris that hasn't properly decomposed, from making their way from your septic tank onto the drain field. In short, an effluent is a glorified strainer that prevents large chunks of excrement from clogging your pipes. Waste that cannot pass through gets sent back to the bottom of your septic tank until it's pumped out.
Do I Need a Septic System Filter?
A septic system filter is often not mandatory, but in various different counties, there are local codes in place requiring homeowners to install one in order to ensure proper disposal of wastewater, as well as for environmental protection.
Benefits of an Effluent Filter
Even though septic filters are only a requirement in certain counties, everyone with a septic tank could stand to benefit from installing one. Read on to learn more about the many benefits of installing a septic system filter .
Keeps the Drain field from Clogging
When solids exit your septic tank, they make their way onto the drain field, accumulating until they reduce the drain field's ability to properly absorb wastewater. There are sources that indicate that this can potentially lead to sewage backing up into your home, yard, and sometimes even both.
Helps Minimize Maintenance Costs
Not only do septic filters help prevent your drain field from clogging, they also reduce the rate at which you need to pump your septic tank, saving you money on maintenance services in the long run.
Extends System Lifespan
A septic filter can play a crucial role in helping extend your septic systems lifespan. It does so by reducing the amount of solid waste that enters your drain field. This helps prevent any potential clogging and unnecessary wear and tear.
Ensures Environmental Protection
A septic system filter helps minimize the likelihood of wastewater contaminating any local sources of water. If groundwater is contaminated, it can pose a health risk for you, as well as the larger community you are a part of. In ensuring you have a septic filter, you help play a role in keeping your home and community safe.
How Long Will a Septic Filter Last?
There is no "replace in the third year" requirement when it comes to septic filters and a filters lifespan can vary from household to household. To check the vitals on yours and assess if it needs cleaning or replacement, call Scorpion Septic!
Do You Need to Clean a Septic System Filter?
The answer is a resounding yes. While the frequency of cleaning can vary from household to household, we generally recommend calling Scorpion Septic to clean your filter at least once a year, but preferably every six months. If that still seems like too much, or you simply forget, we can clean/replace your filter everyc couple of years when we come to do routine maintenance like pumping your septic tank. If you begin to notice issues with your septic system, like frequent backups, our plumbing professionals can help.
Atlanta's Preferred Septic Experts!
At Scorpion Septic, we pride ourselves on providing Atlanta and surrounding areas with affordable and stellar septic system services. From providing free quotes and on demand emergency services, just know you can always rely on Scorpion Septic!