Do I need a maintenance contract?

If you have an aerobic septic system, the Texas commission of environment quality or TCEQ requires yearly maintenance contracts on all systems that include 3 inspections per year. As well as to comply with state regulations it is also extremely advantageous to have the system regularly inspected and maintenance to prevent costly repairs in the future. 

What does a maintenance contract include?

With a yearly maintenance contract all contract paper will be filed with the appropriate agency by AAA wastewater. Once paperwork is filed and Contract begins AAA wastewater will inspect system every 4 months or 3 times a year in conjunction with state and county requirements. All inspections will be turned into proper governing agency. The system will be serviced at the time of inspection this includes cleaning all filters, checking all electrical equipment for operation and running all pumps and spray heads. Sludge levels in tanks are also monitored. Any negative findings or inoperative equipment will be reported to the customer. 

When does my system need to pumped?

AAA wastewater checks the scum and sludge level of your tanks at every visit. When tank levels begin to rise to a point that needs pumping AAA wastewater will advise at that time. There is no time limit that determines need for pumping, it all depends on what is put down the drains. With proper use we have seen some systems exceed 20 years before pumping.

What items am I not supposed to put down the drain?

The easy reference rule for knowing what not to put down the drain is if it does not dissolve do not put it down. This includes baby wipes, feminine hygiene product and all other paper products outside of toilet paper. Liquids such as oil and liquid fabric softener (petroleum based) that float on water are harmful as well. These systems are designed to separate solids via settling, items that float will not settle properly.

Why does my septic system smell?

With and aerobic septic system customers should experience little to no smell. System may have a slight “earthy” or dirt like smell. System should have no septic or “rotten eggs” type smell. The air pump or aerator is responsible for keeping the bacteria alive that digests the solids and kills the smell. If smell is present around the tanks or when the sprinklers come on it is a good indication that you have a problem with your aerator.