FAQs

One instance in which the addition of bacterial additives might be helpful would be when there are significant amounts of medications entering the septic system through human waste. This would be rare, such as you might find with septic systems where one or more resident of the home is on a number of prescription medications or

No. Actually, in 99% of septic tanks, adding bacteria is not necessary since bacteria occurs naturally in properly working and maintained systems. There are some exceptions, mainly due to the overuse of anti-bacterial soaps, disinfectants, laundry detergents, bleach and sanitizers. These products kill bacteria in the septic system, so we suggest limiting their use. We also suggest

Your options depend on a number of factors. First of all, you should always have the septic system pumped out regularly. If you still have problems after having the system pumped out, have your septic professional check for trouble with the tank, the secondary treatment system, (i.e.: leach field, leach bed, sand filter, etc.) and the

Signs of system distress include: Gurgling sounds in your plumbing Toilets and sinks draining slowly System backups Black or gray water coming from your home’s outlet tile discharging into a creek or ditchCertain areas of the yard are wet, possibly with standing black or gray water Foul sewage odors noticed in the house or outside *BE SAFE: If

Yes. If you have a system that is failing, an improperly working leach field or drainage area, a smaller than standard system or a system overstressed by the use of a garbage disposal, it may be necessary to have the system pumped more frequently. High water conditions may also mean more frequent pumping, at least until

Generally speaking, for a 1500 gallon septic tank with a properly working leach field, it is recommended to have the system pumped out every 3 to 5 years. This can vary depending on factors such as: The size of your household Do you use a garbage disposal? Does your laundry water go through your system? Is

As the septic tank is used, sludge continues to accumulate in the bottom of the septic tank. Generally speaking, properly designed tanks have enough space for three to five years safe accumulation of sludge. When the sludge level increases beyond this point, sewage has less time to settle properly before leaving the tank. As the sludge level increases,

Maintaining your septic system requires regularly scheduled pump outs and satisfactory bacteria presence to aid in the digestion of organic solids. Neglecting proper maintenance will result in system distress and ultimately, system failure.

M S I Environmental uses a lid and riser system which utilizes a combination of concrete lids and high quality plastic dual wall riser tube. There are numerous advantages to the use of this combination including: There are infinite variable heights which can be obtained with high quality plastic dual wall riser tube by simply

Lids and risers bring access to the tank up to or just above ground level depending on your preference. In most areas, regulations require risers on septic systems in order to pass inspection. Check with your local county health department concerning regulations in your area. Having lids and risers installed is well worth the initial cost involved since