Maintenance Needs for Advanced Septic Systems

Advanced septic systems are more sophisticated than traditional systems, as they are designed to remove nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to better protect the environment.

However, this additional functionality means that they also require more attention and maintenance. Proper maintenance of these systems ensures that they operate efficiently and last longer, while minimizing the risk of system failure and environmental contamination.

Here’s an overview of the key maintenance needs for advanced septic systems:

1. Regular Inspections

Why It’s Important:

Advanced systems include additional components like pumps, aerators, and filtration units, which can wear down over time or become clogged.

Regular inspections help identify issues early, preventing costly repairs or environmental damage.

What to Do:

Frequency: Inspections should be done at least once a year by a qualified professional.
What’s Checked: Components like aerators, pumps, alarms, and filters should be inspected for damage or malfunction.
Action: Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly to avoid system failure.

2. Pumping the Tank

Why It’s Important:

Just like traditional septic systems, advanced systems need to have solids removed from the tank to prevent clogging and system overload. Even with improved filtration, solids can still accumulate and affect performance.

What to Do:

Frequency: Tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank and household usage.
What’s Checked: Solids and sludge levels should be monitored during routine inspections to determine the need for pumping.
Action: Ensure a professional septic service is called for regular pumping to keep the system running smoothly.

3. Aerator Maintenance

Why It’s Important:

Many advanced systems use aerobic treatment units (ATUs), which rely on aerators to introduce oxygen into the system.

This oxygen allows bacteria to break down waste more effectively. If the aerator malfunctions, the system cannot treat wastewater properly.

What to Do:

Frequency: The aerator should be checked annually during system inspections.
What’s Checked: Ensure the aerator is delivering the proper amount of air, and inspect for blockages, wear, or damage.
Action: Clean the air filters and repair or replace the aerator as needed.

4. Filter Cleaning or Replacement

Why It’s Important:

Advanced systems often have filters (such as sand or media filters) to trap additional solids and nutrients before the effluent enters the drain field.

These filters can become clogged over time, reducing the system’s ability to process wastewater effectively.

What to Do:

Frequency: Filters should be cleaned or replaced annually, or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer.
What’s Checked: Look for signs of clogging or reduced flow in the filters.
Action: Clean or replace filters as needed to maintain the system’s performance.

5. Monitoring Systems and Alarms

Why It’s Important:

Many advanced septic systems come equipped with monitoring systems and alarms that alert homeowners to potential issues such as high liquid levels, pump failures, or aerator malfunctions.

These alarms are critical for early detection of problems.

What to Do:

Frequency: Check the alarm system at least once a year to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
What’s Checked: Ensure all sensors and alarms are operational and responding appropriately to system changes.
Action: Test the alarms regularly and repair any faulty components.

6. Pump and Electrical Component Maintenance

Why It’s Important:

Advanced systems often rely on pumps to move wastewater through different stages of treatment.

If these pumps fail, untreated or partially treated wastewater could leak into the environment.

What to Do:

Frequency: Pumps should be inspected during annual system checks.
What’s Checked: Inspect for leaks, unusual noises, and signs of wear. Ensure the electrical connections are in good condition.
Action: Repair or replace pumps and electrical components as needed to prevent system failure.

7. Maintain Drain Field Health

Why It’s Important:

Even advanced systems rely on a functioning drain field to filter effluent.

If the drain field becomes compacted, clogged, or flooded, it can cause wastewater to back up into the system or the environment.

What to Do:

Frequency: Maintain the drain field year-round by avoiding activities that could damage the soil.
What’s Checked: Watch for signs of oversaturation, such as standing water or foul odors near the drain field.
Action: Avoid parking or driving over the drain field, and direct rainwater away from the area to prevent flooding.

8. Documentation and Record Keeping

Why It’s Important:

Maintaining a record of all inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities ensures that homeowners and service professionals can track the system’s health and anticipate future maintenance needs.

What to Do:

Frequency: Keep records of every inspection, repair, and service call.
What’s Checked: Document any issues that were discovered, the actions taken, and the service schedule.
Action: Use this record to ensure the system is consistently maintained according to manufacturer and local guidelines.

Conclusion

Advanced septic systems, while more efficient at nutrient removal and protecting the environment, require consistent and specialized maintenance.

By adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, addressing any issues promptly, and monitoring the system’s components, homeowners can ensure that their advanced septic systems continue to operate efficiently and reduce the risk of environmental contamination.

If you have an advanced septic system and need help with inspections or maintenance, contact us for expert assistance.

Advanced Septic System Maintenance

Maintenance Task	Why It’s Important	Frequency
Regular Inspections	Identify issues early, preventing costly repairs and environmental damage.	Annually
Pumping the Tank	Prevents solids from clogging the system or overflowing into the drain field.	Every 3-5 years
Aerator Maintenance	Ensures the system can properly aerate wastewater for efficient treatment.	Annually
Filter Cleaning/Replacement	Keeps the system functioning efficiently by preventing clogs and blockages.	Annually or as recommended
Monitoring Systems & Alarms	Detects early signs of system failures or malfunctions.	Annually
Pump and Electrical Maintenance	Ensures proper movement of wastewater through the system.	Annually
Drain Field Health	Prevents system failure due to soil compaction or flooding.	Ongoing
Documentation & Record Keeping	Keeps a clear record of maintenance history for future reference.	Ongoing