"How often should I have my septic tank pumped?"

The Calvert County Health Department recommends that a septic tank should be pumped every 2 years. This time frame could vary, depending on the number of residents in the home and the size of the tank.

"Should I use an additive to help prolong the life of my septic tank?"

NO! Septic tank additives are not needed in your septic tank. In fact, that can actually be harmful.

Some septic tank or septic drainfield additives such as yeast or harsh chemicals can cause damage to the septic system. Yeast can cause frothing and excessive activity in the septic tank, preventing normal settling of solids and coagulation of greases. This agitation forces solid waste into the drainfield and by clogging the soil, shortens its life.

"What is the cost of a new septic system?"

Septic system cost can vary in price. A perc test must be done to determine the system that will be installed at your house. A Calvert County Inspector will then provide a set of specs that shows exactly what is to be installed. We can then provide you with an exact price for the septic installation.

"How a Septic Tanks & Drainfields Function"

Waste water leaves the house and enters the septic tank. The septic tank acts as a holding tank and allows the solids to settle-out. The heavier solids sink to the bottom, forming a sludge layer, while the lighter solids (fats, oils, grease, etc) rise to the surface and form a scum layer. The layer in the middle is called the effluent. The naturally occurring anaerobic bacteria begin breaking down the solids in size and destroying the pathogens. DO NOT USE ADDITIVES TO YOUR SYSTEM. Doing so will disrupt the natural process and can cause damage.

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