Video: Restoration of septic systems

Restore and repair septic systems with Septic Seep

SEPTIC SEEP was invented in 1953 by soil and wastewater experts in the labs of Chevron-ORTHO.
Before you replace a septic drain field try Septic Seep
-SEPTIC SEEP is designed to interact with the soil in your drain field and cure hardpan conditions.
-Septic Seep works in ways bacteria and enzymes can't.
-SEPTIC SEEP works in ways that biological products can't to restore drainage to septic drain fields even in clay soil.

Its actually a biological solution, you apply it in your sink or toilet in certanin intervals. Then it is flushed into the septic system and it cures the soil around it.

What does it do?

PROBLEM 1 Sodium in ordinary detergents, soaps, household cleaners, and water softeners causes clay particles in the soils to chemically bond.

PROBLEM 2 Grease and organic matter form a tar-like layer called the biomat. When the biomat grows too thick a waterproof barrier develops and absorption stops.

When soil absorption stops, soils flood. Naturally occurring beneficial bacteria in the soil die off. Standing water may be seen on the surface of the drain field. Water may back up into the tank and even into household plumbing. This is often the first sign of soil failure in your septic system.

Septic Seep claims to solve both these problems. Give it a try
More info on product Homepage

How to Test Septic Tanks for Leaks | eHow.com

How to Test Septic Tanks for Leaks | eHow.com

How to Care for Your Septic Tank and Septic System

Septic System Ongoing Maintenance
If you live in a rural area you probably have a septic system instead of a sewer connection. Taking care of your septic system isn't difficult, because modern systems function efficiently when you follow a few basic guidelines.

Put these tips to use for a clean and trouble-free septic system.

Divert Rainwater From the Septic Drainfield

* A soggy drainfield won't absorb and neutralize liquid waste. Plan landscaping, roof gutters and foundation drains so that excess water is diverted away from the septic drainfield.

Don't Overload the Septic Tank and Drainfield

* Check faucets and toilets for leaks; make repairs if necessary.
* Use aerators on faucets and flow reducer nozzles on showers to help lower water consumption.
* Reduce water levels for small loads of laundry.
* Wait until the dishwasher is full to run it.
* Use a displacer to reduce the amount of water needed to flush the toilet.

Keep Trees Away from the Septic System

* Discourage root damage by keeping trees at least 100 feet away from the septic system.
* Trees with very aggressive roots, such as willows, should be even farther away from the system.

The Toilet Isn't a Garbage Disposal

* Never flush cat litter, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, paper towels, facial tissues, coffee grounds, or cigarette butts and filters. They'll clog your septic tank in less time than you might imagine.

Use Garbage Disposals Wisely

* A garbage disposal can double the amount of solids added to a septic tank.

* Choose a top-line disposal that grinds food into tiny particles that are easier for a system to digest.

Minimize Heavy Duty Cleaners

* Overuse of heavy cleaners kills beneficial bacteria in the septic tank, so solids won't break down as well.

Do Not Pour Grease Down the Drain

* Grease can clog the septic drainfield, making it impossible for soil to absorb liquids. If that happens you'll need a new drainfield.

Avoid Hazardous Chemicals

* Varnish, paint thinners, motor oils, gasoline and other similar chemicals can ruin your system and are a hazard to groundwater. Dispose of them properly.

Protect the System from Damage

* Do not drive over the drainfield, build a structure on top of it, or cover it with concrete or asphalt.
* Do plant grass on the drainfield to minimize soil erosion.

Perform Regular Maintenance

* Solids must eventually be pumped from the tank. Many experts advise a family of four with a 1,000 gallon septic tank to have the tank pumped after 3-5 years of full time use. Other experts say you can go much longer between pumping operations.

* Never attempt to open a septic tank yourself. Gases and bacteria in it are dangerous.

From Janet Wickell, former About.com Guide