Septic System FAQs

A commercial septic system is usually associated with apartment blocks, retail stores, hotels, production factories, office buildings, and laundry services. These settings are classified as commercial since they serve business operations or are sources of income, differentiating them from residential properties.

The need for a commercial septic system arises when no local municipal sewage infrastructure is available or such an existing system cannot manage the substantial wastewater output typical of commercial properties. This scenario is common for business sites that produce more wastewater than residential areas.

Commercial septic systems, while operating on the same principles as residential systems, accommodate a significantly larger volume of wastewater. This necessitates larger tanks, specialized maintenance approaches, and more frequent servicing. They also manage a broader spectrum of waste materials, distinguishing them from their residential counterparts.

Given their extensive usage and larger waste volumes, commercial septic systems demand regular and more frequent maintenance. This includes periodic pumping – typically every one to three years, depending on the tank’s size and the extent of usage- and consistent inspections to avert system overloads or failures.

The investment required for a commercial septic system depends on variables such as the size of the treatment facility, compliance with effluent standards, and the specific ground conditions of the installation site. In the U.S., the average cost is around $2000 per unit for standard housing projects, excluding installation and civil work expenses.

Allowing vehicles, hefty ones, to traverse over a septic system’s drain field can lead to soil compaction and potential damage to the underlying pipes. This diminishes the field’s operational efficiency and shortens its lifespan. Therefore, it’s crucial to prevent such traffic over these sensitive areas.

In commercial setups, the wastewater includes a complex mix of chemicals and pollutants from diverse activities like cooking and industrial operations. This contrasts residential wastewater, primarily human waste, and typical household water usage.

More rigorous regulations govern commercial septic systems compared to residential systems. This includes stricter compliance with permits, more frequent inspections, and adherence to specific wastewater treatment and disposal standards, reflecting the greater usage intensity and environmental impact potential of commercial systems

Regular septic tank service is essential to the lifespan of your septic system. Depending on how many people live in the house and the size of the system. You should have your septic system inspected at least every three years by a professional and your tank pumped and cleaned as the inspector recommends. Generally, every 3 to 5 years. Residential and commercial systems should be serviced annually.

A key reason to maintain your septic system is to save money. A failing septic system can lead to costly repairs, and poor maintenance is often the culprit. Having your septic system inspected and serviced regularly is a bargain when considering the cost of replacing the entire system. An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and could pose a legal liability.

A strong odor usually is an indicator of an unhealthy septic system. An unhealthy septic system can lead to expensive repairs. Even worse, it can lead to effluent back into the home, creating a potentially serious health hazard. Give Prescott Septic Services a call, and we can help determine if it is directly related to your septic system or plumbing.

Typically, where there is no access to a centralized sewer system, a septic tank will be used as part of a self-contained septic system.

Adding any compounds to your septic tank will not change the frequency at which your septic tank should be serviced. There is no evidence adding additives to your tank will prevent a septic system failure or improve performance. They may be marketed that they won’t harm your system, but the truth is, they don’t help it either.

Servicing your septic tank will vary in cost from company to company. Several factors are vital in the cost of servicing your septic tank. The septic tank location, condition, and ease of access can add to the cost of servicing your tank. Key ways to reduce the cost of servicing your tank are to avoid flushing anything that will directly affect your septic tank’s microbial balance.

Flushable wipes may be marketed as flushable or septic-safe. Avoiding these wipes is highly recommended, as most do not dissolve properly. Feminine Products, condoms, and paper towels should also be avoided as they do not dissolve properly. Medications and harsh cleaners introduced to a septic tank will directly affect the microbial balance of your septic tank, affecting your entire septic system, including your leach field.

Prescott Septic Services will always encourage someone to be home for the service provided. However, it is not required. For our inspections, we do ask that the homeowner/realtor be present to discuss any issues we may find.

Easy indicators of having a septic system are well water on the property, exposed lids or lid location markers, and inspection pipes that may be present in the disposal area. Inspection pipes in your yard and monitor liquid levels in the disposal area. It is essential that these are left alone and always presentable to the eye.