Bathroom Renovations 101: Running New PipesBathroom Renovations 101: Running New Pipes


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Bathroom Renovations 101: Running New Pipes

When I decided to add a pedestal sink and claw foot tub to my bathroom, I had no idea how much new plumbing I had to run. Since I had never run pipes before, I wasn't sure how to do it properly. I did a lot of research before I started so that I could be sure that I was doing it right. As I was researching, I knew that it would be helpful to have all of the information I found in one place. That was the inspiration for this site. I hope that the plumbing resources help you with your next home improvement project.

Four Reasons Your Septic Tank Is Filling Rapidly

Does it seem like your septic tank requires constant pumping, such as every year or even every few months? If so, there is an issue with the system. Addressing the problem can decrease the need to pump and help prevent future problems with other parts of the system.

1. Increased Household Size

One of the most common reasons for a rapidly filling tank is that there are simply more people and more waste feeding into it. Tanks are sized to fit the size of the home and the number of people that typically dwell within it. If you have increased the number of household members, for example moving in elderly parents or adding a rental to the property, then there simply be more wastewater flowing into the tank. If the increase is permanent, you may need to install a bigger tank or a secondary tank.

2. Drain field Problems

Sometimes the issue isn't really with the tank. Instead, the overfilled tank is just a symptom of an issue with the drain field. The problem could be as minor as a clogged outlet pipe that isn't allowing the effluent to move from the tank to the drain field. In this case, having the pipe inspected, repaired, or replaced as necessary solves the issue. In other cases, the issue could be actual damage to the drain field. A collapsed field, for example, such as one that has been driven on or has major root incursion, can be the problem. In this case, the field will need to be rebuilt or moved to a new location.

3. Solid Overloading

Overloading the septic tank with solids can lead to an overfilled tank or the need for more frequent pumping. Often the cause is putting things into the tank that should go in the garbage. For example, this includes diapers, sanitary wipes, and feminine hygiene products. The microbes in the tank can't break down these items and they can't pass into the drain field, so they just fill up the tank and speed up the need to pump. Overloading the tank with non-biodegradable toilet paper or too much food waste at once can cause similar issues.

4. Microbial Distress

If the bacteria and microbes in the tank are suffering, then they won't be able to break down the sewage so it can pass from the tank. Often the cause is a chemical overload in the tank. Using the wrong type of cleaners, too much of any type of cleaner, or pouring "septic helpers" down drains can have negative effects on the microbial balance in the tank.

Contact a septic system service for more information regarding septic tanks.