Providing Exceptional Service Since 1991

Septic Systems Explained

Septic systems are individual wastewater treatment systems that use the soil to treat small wastewater flows, usually from individual homes. They are typically used in rural or large lot settings where centralized wastewater treatment is impractical. There are many types of septic systems in use today. While all septic systems are individually designed for each site, most are based on the same principles.

Guide for Homeowners with Septic Systems

A-1 Sanitation was founded over 25 years ago in Kalispell. Since then, our company has steadily grown and adapted to the times. Our team has been trained through experience and continuing education. Each of our service providers is happy to answer any questions you may have.

As a N.A.W.T. trained and certified company, A-1 Sanitation is committed to using an eco-friendly disposal process. Keeping our land clean is everyone’s responsibility, and that responsibility is increased as a business owner. We gladly do our part to ensure Montana is clean for future generations. Contact us today if you would like to learn more about our eco-friendly disposal process.

Septic Tank

Your Tank Needs to be Serviced Every 3 to 5 Years

This structure is where organic solids are decomposed with biological processes. Your septic system’s purpose is to treat household wastes like body wastes, laundry water, bath water, and discarded food. Septic systems are designed to work indefinitely when properly installed and maintained. It is critical to have your tank pumped (cleaned0 regularly and to maintain proper levels of biological activity.

How Your Septic Tank Works

Waste enters the tank from toilets, sinks, tubs, and drains. Organic solid material floats to the tops of the tanks, forming a layer commonly called “scum.” Inorganic materials and the bi-products from enzyme and bacteria digestion settle to the bottom of the tank forming a layer called “sludge.” Biological activity continues within the scum and sludge layers to break down the many organic materials. This bioactivity results in sending cleaner effluent to the drain field.

Warning Signs of a Failing System

• Sewage surfacing over the drain field
• Sewage back-ups in the house
• Lush, green growth over the drain field
• Slow-draining toilets or drains sewage
• Sewage odors
  

Caring for Your Septic System

What To Do…

• Have your tank pumped out every 3 to 5 years.
• Keep a record of pumping, inspections, and other maintenance.
• Practice water conservation. Repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets, run washing machines and dishwashers only when full, avoid long showers, and use water-saving features in faucets, shower heads, and toilets.
• Learn the location of your septic system and drain field. Keep a sketch of it handy for service visits.
• Divert roof drains and surface water from driveways and hillsides away from the septic system. Keep sump pumps and house footing drains away from the septic system.
• Take leftover hazardous household chemicals to your approved hazardous waste collection center for disposal.
  

What Not To Do...

• Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet. They can harm the bacteria and damage your septic system.
• Keep the following materials out of your septic system: all plastics, grease, disposable diapers, baby wipes, feminine products, wipes, condoms, and other non-biodegradables. Also, avoid gasoline, oil, paint, paint thinner, pesticides, antifreeze, or other chemicals.
• Do not allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the system. The area over the drain field should be left undisturbed with only a mowed grass cover. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage your drain lines.
• Only make repairs once you have obtained the required health department permit. Use professional licensed septic contractors when needed.
• Do not use commercial septic tank additives. These products do not help, and some may even hurt your system.
  

Tips for Avoiding Trouble

The accumulated solids in the bottom of the septic tank should be pumped out every 3 to 5 years to prolong the life of your system. Abuse or lack of maintenance of your septic system can cause it to fail. Failing septic systems can:

• Be a severe health threat to your family and neighbors
• Degrade the environment (lakes, streams, groundwater)
• Reduce the value of your property
• Put many other water supply users at risk 
  

Old systems are only grandfathered in as long as they are functioning properly. They cannot be repaired. Regular maintenance helps keep old systems healthy and drain fields functioning.

Maintenance Contracts Available

To take the trouble out of properly maintaining your system, we recommend a service contract with Surefire Septic Maintenance. They will check your tank level, pump and float operation, and the alarm. Most importantly, they will clean the filter each year to help reduce the chance of backup. To set up a contract, call: Surefire Septic Maintenance: at 406-756-1806 surefireseptic.com