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One of the best ways to prevent muck and debris from clogging your septic tank is by getting a filter – the right filter. Some homeowners can get by without a filtration system, but most others can’t live without one.
Today’s post will cover a few frequently asked questions concerning septic tank filters.
No, it depends on when your tank was manufactured. Most modern systems have wastewater filters.
However, some septic tanks are barebones; they only have a filter bed with or without a sump pump or leach field (an underground area of perforated pipes that move wastewater away from the home).
No, you technically do not need one. However, installing a wastewater filter (effluent) in your tank is an intelligent decision.
According to the EPA, filters can extend the lifespan of your tank by providing an extra layer of protection. Having a wastewater filter reduces the chances of spending a lot of money repairing your leach field pipe system from the damages caused by clogged debris.
There are regulatory considerations to consider. Greene County, Missouri, has commercial and residential septic tank filtration regulations that must pass through a properly anchored effluent screen or filter capable of stopping particles larger than ⅛” from passing through.
It depends on the usage. You should expect to clean your septic tank filter every 3 to 4 months or every few years.
There are many types of filtration systems. Most septic tank filters have two broad categories: gravity and pressure filters. Brush filters and plastic filters both fall under these two categories. If you’re having trouble making a decision, talk with our septic technician experts about it.
For most residential systems, the cost is averaged between $100 to $300.
Cleaning your effluent filter: You’ll start by taking a water hose and heading over to the sewer cleanout (the septic tank cleanout), where a pipe will be placed outside your home and connected to your house and septic system.
Hose it with the water and ensure it’s going through, and no clogs prevent the water from moving through the cleanout.
Get an object to scoop out the floating scum and grease surrounding the filter. Debris can clog the system. After you finish this, turn the filter slightly and pull it straight out from its grooves. Take it somewhere and spray it off with your hose.
Then, take your scoop and start removing any muck and debris that’s inside where the filter is placed. Take your hose and spray the area for a few seconds to remove anything stuck to where the filter should slide in. After you’ve finished cleaning the area, put your filter back in.
Make sure to change your clothes and wash your hands immediately.
Too much wastewater is flowing through the filter too quickly. Excessive water flow might be due to enhanced stress on the system, often caused by doing dishes, laundry, and taking showers simultaneously.
If you have an older septic tank system, you may be required to make foundational changes to the surrounding structure before installing a new effluent filter. A specialist will be able to inspect your tank and identify the best course of action for installing a new filtration system.
Removing an old filter can be as easy as taking it out of its holding position, cleaning out any remaining debris, and replacing it with a new filter.
It’s located in the outlet pipe of the tank.
Not sure what type of filter fits your tank? Our experienced team of technicians can give you suggestions for the perfect filter type. Give us a call for more information regarding septic tank maintenance, pumping, and installation at 417.848.0275.
If you’re a homeowner with a septic system, having a reliable and trustworthy provider for all your septic needs is essential. That’s where Missouri Septic Services comes in. As a family-owned and operated business based in Springfield, MO, we pride ourselves on providing environmentally friendly sewage and non-hazardous wastewater disposal services and expert septic system repairs and installations. Our team of experienced septic system professionals is trained to handle any issue that may arise with your septic system, including drain field repairs. We understand the importance of keeping your septic system functioning correctly, not just for the health and safety of your family but also for the environment. That’s why we use eco-friendly methods to dispose of waste and ensure that our services always comply with local regulations.
Want to ensure your septic system runs smoothly while minimizing its environmental impact? Contact us today to find out how we can help!
