Category: Alaska Sewer and Drain

In this content category you will find articles that pertain to Sewer and Drain knowledge in Alaska, helpful DYI tips, preventative measure tips and general knowledge.

Valid Alaska Sewer and Drain information is often difficult to research. Most informational resources are poorly formatted and seem to cover topics that are not focused.

Following are a list of articles that contain valuable information about all things Alaska Sewer and Drain.

What is a Septic System Service?

Septic System Service in Anchorage and Wasilla

As stated by our friends at the EPA, there are preventative measures for preserving the lifespan of your septic tank. These measures can also reduce your need for septic system service.

What is a septic system?

Usually found in rural areas that don’t have public sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment facilities. They usually have a septic tank and a drain field or soil absorption field.

A septic system consists of a drainage pipe, a septic tank and a drain field. When you have a septic system, water runs out of your house from one main drainage pipe into a septic tank. The tank digests organic materials and separates solids, oils and grease from the wastewater. Then, the liquid wastewater goes through underground pipes into the drain field. The soil in the drain field filters the wastewater, and it eventually discharges into the groundwater.

How often do I need a Septic System Service?

Maintenance is key to owning a septic system. The EPA says the typical system should be inspected at least every three years, and septic tanks are pumped every three to five years. If you have a system with an electrical float switch, pumps, or other mechanical features, you may need to have it inspected annually. Additionally, there are several factors that influence how often your tank must be pumped:

  • Household size
  • Septic tank size
  • Amount of wastewater generation
  • Percentage of solids in the wastewater

How do I know if my septic tank needs service?

In general, there are some red flags that your septic tank needs pumping:

  • Has not been serviced in more than 2 years
  • Drains are slow, toilet is sluggish
  • Property wafts sewer smells throughout the air
  • Greener than usual grass/vegetation around tank location
  • Sewage is backed up into the property

Septic System Installation

If you are looking to install a septic system on a property, it would be wise to look into Trenchless Pipelining for the installation of your underground pipes. This will allow the installers to lay your septic system pipes in a manor that does not require digging. Leave your yard pristine by hiring a qualified trenchless pipline service professional.

Hydro Jetting

Hydro Jetting in Anchorage and Wasilla

If you experience recurrent tough clogs that do not seem to get resolved, ask your contractor about hydro jetting. If your main sewer or drain line is where the clog is located, high pressure water jetting is likely your best option. So what is hydro jetting?

What is it?

Hydro jetting encompasses a process that relies on the use of pressurized water to clear pipes. This is not to be confused with Trenchless Pipelining. with Hydro jetting, experts push the high-pressure water through your pipes with a special hydro jetting machine.

This process rids the interior of the pipe from built-up debris that has triggered a clog or reduced flow. In cases of grease buildup, hot water is often used to increase effectiveness in clearing the drain clog.

A hydro jet machine is considerably more efficient in the removal build-up and reducing the chance of repeated clogs. Once a qualified plumber pinpoints the ideal problem area to pump the water to, they’ll insert a hose that’s tied to a large water tank or water line. The plumber will select a pressure level to use depending on the severity of your clog.

Hydro jetting can take care of a broad range of materials. It will clear the build-up of hair, tree roots, minerals, food, grease, and soap among other things. After a professional hydro jetting service the pipe wall can be so clean it looks brand new.

How do I know when Hydro Jetting is required?

This process is required when the main line system is impaired with severe, recurrent clogs. The insides of pipes usually scale up with grease or mineral build-up, and also debris. These cause slow draining and eventually lead to clogging.

When this problem grows beyond the reach of many local drain cleaning services, you are at risk of a sewer backup. If the plumbing system blocks up entirely, sewer water may find its way into your home.

Fortunately, you don’t have to resign yourself to this fate. Hydro jetting solves these drainage problems by pumping high-pressure water into the pipes. The hot water jet system uses the force of gravity to clear up the pipes.

The “red flag” that this service is the best fit for you is a smelly sewer drain that repetitively clogs up. A plumber can assist in eradicating the obstructions in your pipes, even if the pipes are outside.

An experienced plumbing professional who uses camera inspection will give insight into whether or not hydro jetting is the right solution.

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