What will make my septic smell?
A properly working aerobic septic system will give off a musky odor that may be noticed while irrigation system is activated. There will be no mistaking the normal musky odor and the smell of raw sewage. You should only put household waste in your system. Toilet paper is the only paper that should be put in system no baby wipes, sanitary napkins, etc…
1. Aerobic bacteria must be present for the system to work so if you smell a strong sewage odor first check and make sure your compressor is running. Your compressor is located under the concrete box next to your home. You should be able to here it or feel a slight vibration when it is touched. Without air being supplied to the aerobic tank the aerobic bacteria will die and your system will not work. If your compressor is not working call us to check the system.
2. The bacteria has been killed by something that has been put in tank. Bleach in cleaning agents will kill bacteria so use as little as possible. Never clean out paint brushes in your sink the chemicals from paint and thinners can cause permit damage to your system.
3. Over loading the system with organic matter. Vegetable and food scraps can prevent the bacteria from keeping up with the organic demand. This is done by over using the garbage disposal; try to limit your use.
4. Applying to much wastewater to your system. A typical system is designed to handle up to 500 gallons of household waste water per day. If more than this is applied to system the waste water passes trough the system to quickly and does not have time to be treated properly. This is typically the result of doing to much laundry on a given day. Try to spread your washing out over the course of the week rather than all in one day. The symptoms should be temporary and the foul odors should subside in a couple of days.
http://www.dulworthseptic.com/Found this online. Thought it was great information. There is more at their website. Would have been nice to have this information on move-in.
