Q: “What should I NOT flush down my system?”

A: It is best to remember that your septic system is NOT a trash can and should be used to dispose only of the proper kind of waste.

The following are only some materials that should never go into your septic tank because they can clog the system and may cause a variety of other issues:

• “Flushable” Wipes

• Feminine Hygiene Products

• Rubber Contraceptives

• Cigarettes

• Grease

Q: “How often should I get my tank pumped out for maintenance?”

A: The Florida Department of Health suggests getting your tank serviced every 3-5 years for health maintenance. If a longer time is waited between pump outs, the sludge layer in the tank could rise to an unhealthy level and cause detrimental damage to your valuable system.

Q: “Can I plant anything on top of where my septic tank is located?”

A: Plant only grass over and near your septic system. Roots from nearby plants or trees might clog and damage the tank or drain fields. About half of the septic drain field repairs that we perform in Gulf Breeze, FL and its neighboring towns are from root intrusion.

Q: “Can I drive my vehicle or other machinery over my septic system safely?”

A: No, doing so can compact the soil around your drain field or damage the pipes, tank, or other septic system components.

Q: “How does my septic tank work?”

A: Well long story shorter, all of your solids and water get deposited into the tank by means of plumbing. From there, the natural bacteria that occurs in the septic tank will start to convert the solids into sludge that settles to the bottom. The excess water exits the tank into the drain field where it percolates into the surrounding soil.

Q: “How does a drain field work”

A: A drain field is essentially an area that is made underneath the surface of the ground to accept excess water or “effluent” from the tank. Once the water enters the line, it begins to saturate the soil underneath and around the drain field area. An up to code and safe operating system in the Gulf Breeze, FL will be at least 24” away from the high-water table, if this isn’t the case our ground water could be adversely affected. This is why you should always hire a licensed contractor to install or repair any septic system because you could put your family’s health in danger. 

Q: “How does a drain field FAIL?

A: A drain field can have many different reasons for failure, these could include root intrusion, over water usage which may cause a bio mat, compaction of surrounding soil and simply age of the system. The average lifespan of a septic system drain field in Gulf Breeze, FL and surrounding areas could be from 12-15 years. Now does this mean that every system will meet these time frames, probably not. We have seen failure anywhere from 6 months old to 35 years, system lifespan has a lot to do with how you treat your system and how often you get your septic tank pumped and maintenance.

Q: “How much does a drain field repair cost?”

 A: Septic drain field repairs in Gulf Breeze, FL and surrounding areas have a good amount of variation in pricing. This is due to the differences in water table elevations and soil types that we have here. For normal low water table/good soil type areas, the price could range from $2,500-$5,000. Whereas in a high-water table/poor soil type area, we could be required to bring in additional fill dirt and even removal the existing soil that is in the ground now. This could cost upwards of $10,000, but for a more accurate price for your particular septic system, please give our office a call!

For any other questions or comments, contact us at:

(850)496-4906