Safeguarding the Season: Your Septic System Survival Plan

Atmospheric photo Christmas decoration with a house figure on a Christmas tree with lights and balls. White House. Purchase of real estate, housing.

As the holiday season approaches, our homes buzz with excitement and activity. From family gatherings to festive celebrations, the season’s joy is palpable. Yet, amidst the merriment, a crucial aspect often goes unnoticed—the health of our septic systems. In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore why preparing your septic system for the holiday surges is not just a good idea but a necessity. Let’s delve into the concept of a stress test tailored to ensure our septic systems easily handle the challenges of holiday gatherings.

Understanding the Holiday Surge

Amidst the festive cheer, our homes become vibrant hubs of activity during the holiday season, and with this heightened liveliness comes a unique challenge for our septic systems. The holiday surge poses a considerable strain, as the usual household rhythm amplifies with increased water usage, elaborate cooking endeavors, and a flurry of bathroom visits. It’s a festive storm that our trusty septic systems valiantly navigate. The activity surge may go unnoticed amid the joyous celebrations, but it significantly impacts the workload on our septic systems. In this bustling season, understanding the dynamics of the holiday surge becomes crucial. It’s not merely about the tinsel and carols; it’s about recognizing the potential consequences of septic system overloads. This awareness becomes the cornerstone for adopting proactive measures, ensuring our septic systems remain resilient and contribute to a truly stress-free and uninterrupted holiday season.

Preparation Steps for Your Septic System

Schedule a Pre-Holiday Inspection

Embarking on a proactive journey to safeguard the well-being of our septic systems, scheduling a pre-holiday inspection emerges as a pivotal step in preparing for the festive season. Recognizing the increased demands the holidays place on our septic systems, a professional inspection serves as a preemptive strike against potential issues. By identifying and addressing any concerns before the holiday season is in full swing, homeowners can fortify their septic systems against the surge in activities. This careful and timely examination becomes a cornerstone in ensuring a trouble-free and joyous celebration, where the unnoticed hero—the septic system—stands resilient in the face of increased demands. As we approach the holiday festivities, a pre-holiday inspection becomes not just a task on the checklist but a proactive measure to guarantee the smooth functioning of our septic systems, contributing to a stress-free holiday season for all.

Pump Your Septic Tank

Initiating a pre-holiday pump-out for your septic tank is a savvy and essential maneuver as we gear up for festive celebrations. This proactive step involves removing accumulated solids from the tank, ensuring optimal functionality and capacity. As the holiday season approaches, the increased load on our septic systems makes this preventive measure especially crucial. By pumping the septic tank ahead of time, homeowners pave the way for a healthier and more resilient system, ready to face the heightened demands of family gatherings and holiday merriment. Consider it a pre-emptive toast to your septic system’s well-being, guaranteeing a seamless and worry-free holiday season for you and your household.

Educate Household Members

Empowering everyone in your household with a basic understanding of septic system care becomes an integral aspect of preparing for the holiday surge. Communication is key as you share tips and guidelines to foster awareness among family and guests. From cautious water usage to mindful disposal practices, educating household members contributes to the collective effort in preventing accidental overloads. By instilling this knowledge, you not only ensure a harmonious and smoothly flowing holiday season but also create a shared responsibility in maintaining a septic system that thrives amidst the festivities. So, consider it a friendly reminder to keep the communication lines open and the holiday cheer flowing without any unexpected plumbing hiccups.

Mindful Water Usage: Nurturing Your System

Practicing mindful water usage is akin to giving your septic system a nurturing embrace, especially during the holiday season. As festivities unfold, adopting water conservation tips becomes paramount, offering a thoughtful approach to daily activities. From efficient dishwashing techniques to turning off the water while brushing your teeth, these small yet impactful measures contribute to the well-being of your septic system. 

Proper Disposal Practices: Safeguarding Your System and the Environment

Adopting proper disposal practices during the holiday season is not just about safeguarding your septic system; it’s a conscious effort to protect both your home and the environment. As you navigate the culinary adventures of festive cooking, guidance on the responsible disposal of cooking byproducts and leftovers becomes paramount. This includes using garbage disposals cautiously to prevent unnecessary strain on your septic system. By incorporating these practices, you not only contribute to the longevity of your home’s unsung hero but also play a role in environmental sustainability. Think of it as a dual-purpose act of kindness—a gift to your septic system and a nod to the planet during this season of giving and celebration.

Bathroom Etiquette: Minimizing Stress on Your Septic System

Embracing mindful bathroom etiquette during the holiday season is key to minimizing stress on your septic system. As the house fills with family and guests, considerate practices can make a significant difference. Encourage the use of septic-safe products such as toilet paper specifically designed for septic systems, and remind everyone to avoid flushing non-biodegradable items like wipes, sanitary products, or excessive amounts of toilet paper. By incorporating these simple yet impactful steps, you not only contribute to the smooth functioning of your septic system but also create an environment where everyone plays a role in maintaining the well-being of this essential home component. It’s a small gesture that ensures your holidays flow smoothly, free from the unexpected hiccups of plumbing woes.

Post-Holiday Maintenance: Ensuring Longevity

The festivities may be over, but the care for your septic system continues. This section provides recommendations for post-holiday septic system checks. From visual inspections to assessing signs of potential issues, we guide you on giving your septic system the attention it needs after the holiday rush. Learn about red flags that may indicate problems and understand when to seek professional help.

Conclusion: A Stress-Free Holiday Season for You and Your Septic System

As we conclude our exploration of handling holiday surges on your septic system, remember the key takeaways: proactive preparation, mindful practices during the holidays, and post-holiday maintenance. By taking these steps, you ensure a stress-free holiday season and safeguard the health of your septic system. The power to enjoy a trouble-free holiday season is in your hands. Implement these proactive measures, cherish the festivities, and rest easy knowing your septic system is well taken care of. For personalized advice or professional assistance, consider scheduling inspections or maintenance services, wishing you a joyful and septic-trouble-free holiday season!

Signs of a Septic System Problem You Should Never Ignore

toilet flushing

When it comes to the essential systems in our homes, the septic system often doesn’t get the attention it deserves until something goes wrong. However, overlooking signs of septic system problems can lead to wallet-flushing costs, health risks, and even damage to the environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore common indicators of septic system issues that homeowners should never ignore and discuss why addressing them promptly is crucial.

The Telltale Signs

Foul Odors

One of the most unmistakable signs of a septic system problem is a foul odor emanating from your drains or yard. The pungent smell of sewage can be a clear indication that something is amiss. Ignoring this odor can lead to more significant problems, including health concerns and environmental contamination.

Slow Drains and Toilet Flushing

If you’ve noticed that your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slowly, it might be time to investigate. Slow drainage can be a sign of a blockage or backup in your septic system. Ignoring this issue could result in sewage backing up into your home or yard, creating a messy and unsanitary situation.

Pooling Water in the Yard

Standing water in your yard, especially around the area where your septic tank or drain field is located, should raise a red flag. This could indicate that your septic system is not properly processing wastewater. It’s essential to address this promptly to prevent damage to your property and protect the environment.

Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds

Unusual sounds coming from your plumbing fixtures, such as gurgling or bubbling noises, can signal septic system issues. These sounds can occur when air is trapped in the plumbing due to a blockage or other problems within the system. Don’t dismiss these sounds as mere quirks; they may be early warnings of impending trouble.

High Nitrate Levels in Well Water

If you rely on a well for your water supply, regularly testing for nitrate levels is crucial. High nitrate levels in well water can indicate septic system contamination. Nitrate contamination can have serious health implications, particularly for infants, so it’s vital to address this issue promptly.

Why Prompt Action Is Crucial

Preventing Costly Repairs

Ignoring septic system issues can lead to more extensive and expensive repairs down the line. Minor problems left unattended can escalate into major headaches, both financially and practically.

Preserving Property Value

A malfunctioning septic system can significantly reduce your property’s resale value. Potential buyers are likely to be deterred by the prospect of a septic system in disrepair, so maintaining a functional system is essential for preserving your property’s worth.

Avoiding Health Risks

Septic system problems can pose health risks to you and your family. Raw sewage backup can expose you to harmful pathogens and contaminants, leading to illnesses. Timely action can help avoid these health risks.

Environmental Responsibility

A poorly maintained septic system can contaminate nearby groundwater and harm the environment. By addressing issues promptly, you contribute to environmental protection and demonstrate responsible stewardship of your property.

What to Do When You Spot These Signs

Contact a Professional

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact a septic system professional. These experts have the knowledge and tools to diagnose and resolve septic system issues effectively.

Limit Water Usage

While waiting for a professional to arrive, it’s a good idea to reduce your water usage temporarily. This can help alleviate stress on the system and prevent further backups.

Avoid DIY Fixes

Resist the temptation to attempt DIY repairs on your septic system. These systems are complex and delicate, and misguided attempts at fixing them can worsen the problem. Trust the expertise of a professional.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of septic system problems and taking swift action is critical for homeowners. Ignoring these indicators can lead to costly repairs, health risks, and environmental damage. By promptly addressing issues and seeking professional help when needed, you can ensure that your septic system continues to function smoothly and protect your home, your family, and the environment. Stay vigilant, and don’t underestimate the importance of a healthy septic system in your home.

Essential Steps Before Requesting a Quote from a Septic Company

Septic Inspector bent down filling out quote on clipboard with tools including a white bucket in front of him

Are you thinking of diving into the world of properties with septic systems? Get ready for a splash of unique challenges and surprising adventures. Prospective buyers often face unexpected pressure from real estate and finance institutions, leading to rushed decisions and potential pitfalls. To ensure a smooth experience and an accurate cost estimate, there are a few crucial steps to take before requesting a quote from a local septic company.

Understand the Pressure

Buying real estate involves numerous parties and timelines, often leading to time-sensitive decisions. It’s common for prospective buyers to encounter pressure from real estate agents, lenders, and other involved groups. This pressure can push you to make quick choices without fully understanding the implications. However, stepping back and understanding the impact before making a speedy decision can be the ultimate game-changer.

Prioritize the Soil Test

One of the most critical steps before requesting a quote from a septic company is conducting a soil test. This test provides vital information about the soil’s composition and drainage capabilities. A soil test should be completed before purchasing the property; it’s an investment in understanding its suitability for a septic system and can prevent costly surprises down the road.

Fill Out the Questionnaire

Once the soil test is complete and the results are in hand, the next step involves filling out a questionnaire about the property’s usage. This information helps determine the appropriate septic system type and size for your needs. With a greater understanding of your property, a septic company can provide an accurate cost estimate.

Understand the Complexity

The complexity of septic systems varies widely based on factors like soil composition, property size, and usage. Before completing the soil test and the property questionnaire, it takes a lot of work for a septic company to provide even a ballpark estimate. Septic system designs can range from simple to intricate, leading to significant cost differences.

Before you take the plunge, ensure you have the tools to navigate the waters. Your septic system’s success starts with a strong foundation of understanding. Taking the time to prioritize a soil test, filling out a property questionnaire, and understanding the complexity of septic systems will equip you with the knowledge needed to request an accurate quote from a septic company. By following these steps, you’ll make an informed decision and ensure a smoother journey toward a functional and cost-effective septic system. Remember, knowledge is power – especially when it comes to your property’s future.

Ready to make a move and request a quote? Look no further than BBB Septic – the exclusive septic powerhouse in your area. We are the only local company offering a comprehensive package encompassing soil tests, designs, installations, maintenance, pump-outs, and beyond – all seamlessly bundled under our roof. Reach out today to discover how we can uniquely serve your septic needs. Your journey to superior and trusted septic solutions begins with us!

Septic Pumping in Rogers, AR: What You Need to Know

Septic Pumping in Rogers, AR: What You Need to Know

Septic pumping is an essential service for homeowners in Rogers, AR, ensuring the efficiency and longevity of septic systems. Regular septic pumping not only benefits property owners but also has a positive impact on the environment.

The Importance of Septic Pumping: 

Septic pumping plays a crucial role in maintaining a well-functioning septic system. Regular pumping helps prevent problems such as clogs, overflows, and system failures, ultimately prolonging the system’s lifespan and safeguarding the homeowner’s investment. How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank? Several factors determine the recommended septic pumping frequency, including tank size, household size, and water usage. General guidelines suggest septic pumping every 3-5 years, but personalized recommendations based on individual circumstances are crucial for optimal system performance.

The Septic Pumping Process: 

The septic pumping process involves:

  • Locating and uncovering the tank.
  • Inspecting it for damage.
  • Pumping out the sludge and scum.
  • Ensuring the tank functions properly.

Hiring a professional for this task is essential to guarantee a thorough and safe pumping service.

Choosing a Professional Septic Pumping Service in Rogers, AR: 

When selecting a reliable septic pumping service in Rogers, AR, consider factors such as experience, licensing, customer reviews, and the range of services offered. BBB Septic Solutions is a trusted provider known for its expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction.

The Consequences of Neglecting Septic Pumping: 

Neglecting septic pumping can lead to potential hazards and expenses, such as system failures, environmental damage, and noncompliance with local regulations. Regular septic pumping is essential to avoid these risks and maintain a healthy septic system.

Rogers, AR: A Dynamic City with a Rich History and Bright Future: 

Rogers, AR, is a dynamic city with a rich history and commitment to offering its residents a high quality of life. Proper septic pumping is crucial in maintaining the community’s well-being and supporting its continued development.

Additional Septic System Maintenance Tips: 

Rogers, AR, homeowners should also consider regular inspections, using water efficiently, and proper waste disposal. These practices complement septic pumping and ensure the overall health of the septic system, protecting both the property and the environment.

The Benefits of Regular Septic Pumping: 

Regular septic pumping offers numerous benefits for Rogers, AR homeowners, including cost savings, increased property value, and environmental protection. Emphasizing the importance of regular septic pumping helps ensure the system’s efficiency and longevity.

Septic pumping is a crucial service for homeowners in Rogers, AR. Property owners can maintain a well-functioning and long-lasting septic system that benefits their households and the environment by following the provided guidelines and investing in regular professional septic pumping services.

Learn more

How to Determine the Cost of Installing or Replacing a Septic System in Bella Vista, AR

Installing or Replacing a Septic System

Making informed judgments and creating a budget that works in Bella Vista, Arkansas, requires having a solid understanding of the variables that affect the price of building or repairing a septic system. This blog post will cover these variables to give you confidence as you proceed through the procedure.

Type of Septic System: 

Choosing a septic system can significantly impact the overall cost of installation or replacement. Different systems include conventional, aerobic, and mound systems, each with advantages, drawbacks, and price points. Researching and comparing these options is crucial for determining your property’s most suitable and cost-effective solution.

Size of the Septic Tank: 

The size of the septic tank, determined by the number of bedrooms in your home and water usage, affects the cost of installation or replacement. Larger tanks require more materials and labor, resulting in higher costs. Carefully assess your needs to select the appropriate tank size for your household.

Soil and Site Conditions: 

The intricacy of the installation or replacement procedure can be influenced by the kind of soil, the terrain, and the depth of the groundwater, which in turn affects cost. A soil test and site study are required to choose the best septic system for your property while considering these aspects.

Permits and Local Regulations: 

Installation or replacement in Bella Vista, Arkansas, must consider local laws and particular permits. The project’s overall cost may increase as a result of these restrictions. To avoid unpleasant surprises during the procedure, familiarize yourself with local laws and permit fees.

Labor and Installation Costs: 

Hiring professionals to install or replace a septic system in Bella Vista, AR, comes with associated costs. However, the value of working with experienced professionals cannot be overstated, as they ensure a well-functioning and long-lasting system. Factor in these costs when budgeting for your project.

Drain Field Preparation: 

The preparation of the drain field, including excavation and the installation of gravel or other materials, contributes to the project’s overall cost. Proper drain field preparation is essential for the septic system’s longevity, so it’s crucial not to cut corners in this area.

Additional Components and Accessories: 

Additional components or accessories, such as pumps, alarms, or risers, may be required for your septic system. These components can add to the overall cost of installation or replacement, so be sure to account for them when determining your budget.

Long-term Maintenance Costs: 

Don’t forget to factor in long-term maintenance costs when determining the overall cost of a septic system. Investing in regular maintenance ensures your system remains efficient and 

helps avoid costly repairs in the future.

Obtaining Quotes from Professionals in Bella Vista, AR: 

To obtain accurate quotes from septic system professionals in Bella Vista, AR, consider factors such as licensing, experience, customer reviews, and services offered. BBB Septic Solutions is a reputable company known for its expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Understanding the various factors influencing the cost of installing or replacing a septic system in Bella Vista, AR, is crucial for making informed decisions and appropriately budgeting. By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be well-prepared to invest in a septic system that meets your needs and budget.

If you enjoyed this article, check out this other article too:

Why Professional Septic Installation Matters for Siloam Springs, AR Homeowners

Septic Safe Resolutions

septic safe solutions

Every new year, millions of people around the world set their sights towards the future with the intention to spark positive change. Though these resolutions are generally personal and pertain to a person’s well being or professional development, there are actually new year’s resolutions that are good for you and your septic system!

And boy, we’ve got a little something for everyone:

For The Conservationist

How much water your home uses varies depending on any number of things, including how many people live in your household, your daily water usage, and appliance efficiency, but, essentially, the typical single-family home averages nearly 8,000 gallons of water usage each month.

If you’re looking to be more mindful of your water usage in the new year we recommend starting small.

● Use the proper load size settings on your washing machine to avoid wasting water and energy.

● Avoid doing all household laundry in one day. Though it seems like a time saver, it doesn’t allow your septic system to enough time to treat waste.

● Only run your dishwasher when it’s full.

● Collect rain water to use for watering your plants.

For The Eco Friendly

Over 60 million people across the country rely on septic tanks to treat wastewater, and as one of those homeowners, we know you’ve wondered about septic tank additives.

As your resident septic safe experts, we highly recommend Just Flush. It’s an easy-to-use, super concentrated, all natural and non-toxic septic sludge and odor eliminator. This chemical free product works best when used monthly as a sort of booster shot for your system, and is available for purchase on our website or as part of our Septic Maintenance Program.

Another eco + septic system friendly practice? Composting. While your garbage disposal can handle a lot, there are various foods and food waste that require a different method of discard, lest you invite clogging, drainage issues, and unpleasant sink odor. Avoid the mess and stress by feeding your garden instead of your garbage disposal!

For The Prepared

Regular upkeep and maintenance not only protects your property, but your health and your wallet as well! By scheduling regular maintenance for your home or business septic system, you don’t have to worry about your septic system turning into a big, messy – and likely costly – mess.

Regular pumping, cleaning lateral lines when needed, adjusting flow equalization and removing debris are all part of keeping your septic system functioning at top efficiency, and with our Septic Maintenance Program, you get all of this and more!

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Bbb Solutions: Septic Care Tips To Remember This Summer

BBB Solutions: Septic Care Tips To Remember This Summer

Summer is a busy time of year between the grilling parties, get-togethers, and seasonal home projects – and not just for you, but your septic system too. Whether your septic system is for your residence or your business, you know it requires proper care and maintenance to keep it running smoothly, and with summer being such a lively season this is doubly true. In addition to
its regular care, here are three things to keep in mind to ensure optimal septic performance:

As Always, Be Wary What You’re Putting Down Your Pipes

While you might already know what your septic system can and can’t handle, your house guests might be a little less in the know. Before your guests start flushing harsh chemicals or other materials, make sure you give them a rundown of what can and can’t go into the septic tank.

Consider A Pre-Party Septic Pump

Planning a summer get-together? That’s great! Just be wary: more guests = more flushing. To get ahead of any issues, go ahead and plan out a pre-party pump out of your septic system.

Be Mindful When Landscaping

It’s the perfect time of year for landscaping, but make sure you’re being mindful of your septic tank’s location and proximity to what’s being planted as well as to any heavy equipment. After all, you don’t want roots getting into your system or for that heavy equipment to end up parked on your tank!

Ready to start your septic system design and installation process? Have questions? Give us a call at 479-225-9800 or contact us here.

BBB Solutions: Septic System Design and Installation

Designing and Installing Your Septic System: An Introduction 

When we start to plan a septic design, our team begins the process by meeting with you to develop a full understanding of your septic system design needs. This includes asking questions like: “What do you intend to build on the property?” and “How many bedrooms will there be in the home?”. 

From there, our team will conduct a soil test, commonly referred to as a “perc test”. The soil test will determine if the area is able to support a septic system absorption field (otherwise known as a lateral field or as leach lines). 

With these results, the BBB Septic team can design a proper system built to suit your property’s unique needs. This design is then submitted to the health department, which then issues a permit that allows us to move forward with the installation and maintenance of your system.

Onsite Wastewater FAQ

For your convenience, we also gathered a couple of commonly asked questions regarding onsite wastewater. To read the full FAQ, check out this post from the Arkansas Department of Health!

Q: What is the minimum lot size for a septic system? 

A: There is no minimum lot size. The space required for a sewage system is determined by the suitability of the soils at the site, the number of bedrooms in the home, and the 100 foot set back from the water wells.

Q: Why soil pit tests? 

A: The soil pits determine the depths to any rock, any impervious soil layers, and the anticipated level of ground water in the wet periods of the year. This information results in sewage system design that overcomes the soil’s limitations.

Ready to start your septic system design and installation process? Have questions? Give us a call at 479-225-9800 or contact us here.

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Bbb Solutions: Septic Care Tips To Remember This Summer

Drainfield Red Flags

can't see drain field issues

Your septic system is rarely thought of, but it plays a vital role in your everyday life! From laundry to dishwashing, your septic system is in play.

An important part of your septic system is the drainfield. The drainfield is largely responsible for hosting and holding water from the septic tank that will eventually be absorbed into the surrounding soil. When you overload your system, or if your system isn’t working properly, the drainfield can become negatively affected. 

As a homeowner, it’s important to know and recognize the signs of drainfield problems and fix the issue.

Don’t Turn a Blind Eye to Drainfield Red Flags 

  1. Sewage Odors: Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, sewage odors are a big, smelly, red flag.  
  1. Standing Water or Wet Spots: Keep an eye out for anything slimy, standing water, or recurring wet spots in your yard. 
  1. Slow Flushing Toilets: Annoying AND problematic. Slow flushing toilets are definitely a sign that something isn’t working properly. 
  1. Slow Drainage In Sink or Tubs: This is another red flag that something in your septic system isn’t working properly, whether it be a drainfield issue or a clogged pipe. 

Common Causes and Culprits  

The most common cause of drainfield problems is improper maintenance, but other culprits include soil compaction from parked vehicles, tree roots damaging or breaching your drainfield, and excessive grease in your septic system. 

So, What’s The Big Deal?

Drainfield problems, if not treated in a timely manner, can result in both indoor and outdoor water damage. If any of that toxic sewage enters your home, you’ll also be dealing with potential health hazards, mold, and mildew.  

Get Ahead of Drainfield Problems 

A regularly and properly maintained septic system means you can rest easy! Not sure how to care for your home’s septic system? Contact the pro’s here at BBB!  

Lou & Swirly Say: Follow These Septic System Do’s & Don’ts

What you do or don’t do for your septic system can make all the difference! To prolong your systems lifespan and avoid costly septic damage, review these do’s and don’ts and share them with your household. 

Septic System Do’s 

Septic System Don’ts 

  • DON’T let water run unnecessarily. 
  • DON’T expand the size of your residence without adjusting your septic system. 
  • DON’T park over your drainfield. 
  • DON’T use septic tank additives without consulting a professional. 
  • DON’T put non-biodegradable materials down the drain. 
  • DON’T wash chemicals like paint thinners, oils, weed/insect killer down the drain.
  • DON’T flush pharmaceuticals down the drain. 

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Septic Safe Resolutions