All posts by kuettels_septic

Fabric Softeners: Friend or Foe?

April 27, 2016Septic System Tipsfabric softener, Kuettels, septickuettels_septic

Perhaps you’ve seen the influx of information out there about fabric softeners and their toxicity. Have you stopped to wonder if they are also dangerous for your septic system? Here’s something to consider: the chemicals used in these household products can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. Not sure if you can live without the extra softness in your clothing and towels? Try using half a cup of white vinegar (grain-derived, not petroleum-derived) per load during the rinse cycle. This acts as a natural fabric softener.

And remember there are ways to jump-start that beneficial bacteria in your system! Just ask us which bacterial additive we recommend and how you can get a free sample!

Cover Landscaping

June 18, 2015Septic System Tipscovers, hiding coverskuettels_septic

We just wanted to take a second to share this great example of beautifying your manhole cover area. It’s hard to tell that the rocks are actually synthetic! They do a such great job of hiding the covers.

Fake rock example 2

Why should I install risers on my septic?

March 30, 2015Uncategorizedburied cover, cover, digging, Risers, winterkuettels_septic

Installing risers on your underground septic cover will obviously save you a lot of time and effort digging it up when pumping or other work is needed. Homeowners may not know where their covers are and go to great lengths searching for them. This may not seem that inconvenient in the summer months, but it is very difficult in the winter. All too often, people experience septic back ups and other problems when the ground is frozen solid. Not only do they have to experience the stress of a backed up septic, but it tends to be very time consuming and costly to thaw the ground and access that cover, which is essential to fixing issues. Installing risers can save all of these headaches.

Some are concerned that risers are an unattractive addition to their yard, but there are many options to beautify it. Poly plastic covers are dark green and can easily blend into the surrounding greenery. The risers can be covered with fake rocks, landscaped around and even painted! There are many possibilities. Call us today to set up an installation!

Can my system still have root problems in the winter?

January 27, 2015Uncategorizedkuettels_septic

Yes. It is strange to think that even though a tree doesn’t appear to grow in the cold winter months, the roots still do. In fact, they search for warm areas like your septic lines. Fortunately we are still able to treat these issues in the winter. The trusted product we use for roots, RootX, is effective 365 days a year. Whether it is your drainfield or city sewer line that is having root problems in the cold, we can help.

Will my water softener hurt my septic system?

October 21, 2014Septic System Tipskuettels_septic

A recent study showed that when your water softener is set to an efficient salt setting, it should not harm the septic system. It is recommended to keep the softener at a setting to use less salt, or update to more efficient technology. It is also recommended that the water softener discharge be diverted away from the septic tank itself. Extra salt in your septic system can increase your possibility for problems. Some plumbers have found emulsified grease in tanks and eroding concrete due to acidity from too much salt. As always, good maintenance can prevent many problems! When we pump out your septic, we are always looking out for potential issues so we can alert you before a problem arises.