Septic tanks are built to last for years, but the time does eventually come when the homeowner must consider installing a new one. The trick is to know when that time comes. The best septic contractors in Des Moines Iowa can teach owners to be on the lookout for signs like these.
The Need For More Frequent Cleanings
A good rule of thumb is to schedule septic tank cleaning in Des Moines, Iowa roughly once for every three years. If that frequency has worked well in the past but the tank now needs more frequent cleanings, something has happened. It could be that the household has grown, or simply that the tank is not working as well as it once did. A contractor can assess the situation and determine if repairs are needed, or if the time has come for a new tank.
The Ground Is Getting A Little Soft
If the homeowner notices that the ground over the septic tank tends to feel somewhat soft and the soil is saturated even when it hasn’t been raining, that’s a sure sign of a problem. Perhaps all that is needed is replacing one or two components. Depending on how old the tank happens to be, it can also be an indication that it’s time for a new one. The best septic contractors in Des Moines Iowa can use several methods to assess the integrity of the tank and decide if the time has come for a replacement.
The Homeowner Doesn’t Know The Age Of The Tank
If the current tank was in place when the owner bought the property 20 years ago, there’s a good chance that no one knows exactly when that tank was installed. As long as it is still functioning properly, that does not pose a problem. When something does seem to be wrong and the homeowner knows the tank has been in place for at least a couple of decades, replacing it is often the best possible solution. In many cases, minor repairs and a complete cleaning will do the job. When those methods don’t seem to produce the desired results any longer, talk with a contractor about a replacement. The professional can help the homeowner choose the right size and style, based on the current and projected needs of the household.
