There’s a lot that goes into owning a home, and one of the most important aspects is understanding your septic system. Homes in San Diego that have these systems require regular septic tank inspection to ensure they’re functioning properly and keeping your home and property safe.

Read on for all you need to know about the inspection process and the preparation for it.

What happens during a septic inspection?

An inspection of the septic system is an important procedure that has the benefit of ensuring its proper function and safety. A reliable professional will have no issue with performing it effectively and confidently, so that you can have a peace of mind. The process is very straightforward.

• Visual examination: The inspection process typically begins with a visual examination of the tank and surrounding area. The inspector will look for signs of damage or leaks, and will also check to see that the tank is the correct size for the property.
• Pumping out: Next, the inspector will pump out the tank to measure the sludge and scum levels. If these levels are too high, it can indicate that the system is not functioning properly.
• Taking samples: Finally, the inspector will take samples of the effluent (wastewater) to test for harmful bacteria or other contaminants. The results of the inspection will help to determine if any repairs or maintenance are needed.

How do you prepare for a septic system inspection?

Before the septic system inspection professionals arrive, it is important to have a clear understanding of what they will be looking for and have all the necessary documents and tools easily accessible.

Gather the documents

Gather any warranty information, as-built drawings, and maintenance records you have for the septic system. If you do not have these items, the inspector may still be able to proceed with the inspection, but it will be helpful if you are able to provide this information. Pay special attention to this if the inspection is on a new property.

Enable access to the lids

Next, locate the tank lid(s) and make sure there is no debris blocking them. The inspector will need to access the tank during the inspection, so it is important that they are able to do so easily.

Provide vehicle access

Lastly, provide adequate vehicle access to the septic system components – the inspector may need to drive a truck or ATV over the ground where the leach field is located, in order to properly inspect it.

By taking these steps before the inspection professionals arrive, you can help ensure that the inspection goes smoothly and efficiently.

Where in San Diego and the surrounding area can I find an experienced professional to perform a septic tank inspection?

If you’re concerned about the condition of your tank or sewer lines, our professional inspection services at The Inspectors Company can give you the peace of mind you need. We use the latest technology to thoroughly inspect your tank and sewer lines, checking for any signs of damage or blockages.

We also offer thermal imaging services to help locate any potential problems. Our team is highly experienced and qualified to provide you with an accurate assessment of your septic system and to ensure that the system is up to the county regulations and codes.

As long as you’ve prepared everything before the assessment, you’re free to take a few hours to rest on the beach at Point Loma while our pros take care of everything. Call us today to schedule an inspection.

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think too much about your septic system until there’s a problem. But did you know that regular inspections of the tank can help prevent problems from happening in the first place?

There are a number of companies that provide homeowners with septic tank inspection if you live in San Diego, so you won’t have any trouble finding a reliable one. Read on for just a few of the many benefits of getting your tank checked out regularly.

Why is it important to maintain septic systems?

While septic systems are typically low-maintenance, it is important to have them regularly inspected and pumped to prevent problems. It goes without saying that this should be left to professionals, who will be happy to explain the process to you if you’re interested in it.

Some of the benefits of maintaining your septic system include:

Preventing sewage backups and overflows

Sewage backups and overflows can create a health hazard by contaminating food and water supplies. They can also damage your home and belongings. Regular inspections will help you identify any problems so that they can be fixed before they cause any damage.

Maintaining the structural integrity

Septic systems are composed of two main parts: the tank and the leach field. The tank is where wastewater from the home is stored, and the leach field is where the water is gradually released back into the ground.

It’s important to regularly inspect both the tank and leach field to ensure that they are functioning properly. Otherwise, sewage can back up into the home, causing serious health hazards.

Preventing water pollution

Every time you flush your toilet or run your dishwasher, waste water enters your septic system. Over time, this waste can build up and pollute the groundwater, negatively impacting the quality of life for you and your neighbors.

Prolonging the lifespan of the system

While having your own system provides greater autonomy, it also means that homeowners are responsible for regularly inspecting and maintaining it to ensure it’s functioning properly. Failure to do so can result in costly repairs or even replacement.

However, by taking some simple steps, you can prolong the lifespan of the system and avoid these costly issues.

How often should you have your septic tank inspected?

Most experts recommend that septic tanks be inspected every three to five years. However, some factors, such as the age of the tank and the size of the household, may require more frequent inspections.

Age

As your septic system ages, it becomes less efficient at treating wastewater. This means that you should have it inspected more often to make sure it is working properly.

A professional inspector can check for signs of wear and tear, and recommend repairs or replacement if necessary.

Number of people

If you live in an area with a high number of people, it’s important to have the tank inspected more often. When there are more people using the same septic system, there’s a greater chance of waste being flushed into the system that can clog or damage it.

Additionally, the additional weight from more people can also put stress on the septic system and cause it to fail.

High water table

A high water table can cause a number of issues, which is why you need to inspect your tank more often if it’s present in your system. Most notably, it can increase the risk of your system “floating” to the surface.

This happens when the water table is higher than the bottom of your tank, causing the tank to float up out of the ground. This is a sign that an urgent inspection is necessary.

Where can I find professionals to perform a thorough septic tank inspection in San Diego and the surrounding area?

At The Inspectors Company, we understand that your home is your biggest investment. That’s why we offer a complete range of home inspection services, from septic tank inspection to roof inspection.

We also offer sewer line inspection, pool inspection, thermal imaging and more. Whether you’re looking to inspect your new property or just want to make sure your existing home is in top condition, we can help. You’re free to relax at La Jolla Cove while we work away.