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5 Signs It’s Time to Schedule a Septic Tank Pump-Out

Mijael • December 19, 2024

Introduction

Septic tank maintenance is essential to keeping your home’s plumbing running smoothly. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to costly repairs, unpleasant odors, or even health hazards. At First Call Septic Services Inc., we specialize in septic tank pump-outs for Miami-Dade and Broward counties, helping homeowners avoid unexpected emergencies.

Here are five clear signs it’s time to schedule a pump-out.

1. Slow Draining Sinks and Toilets

If you notice that your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets are draining slower than usual, it could mean your septic tank is nearing capacity. Wastewater has less room to flow, causing delays in drainage. Don’t rely on temporary fixes like drain cleaners—these can damage your system. Instead, call a professional for an inspection.

2. Gurgling Noises from Plumbing

Unusual gurgling sounds coming from your pipes or toilets often indicate a septic problem. This happens when air gets trapped in the plumbing system due to a full tank or a blockage. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further damage to your plumbing.

3. Unpleasant Odors Around Your Property

A properly functioning septic tank should not emit foul odors. If you start noticing a sewage smell near your yard, drains, or septic tank, it’s a clear sign that waste levels are too high. Left unchecked, this can result in harmful leaks and environmental contamination.

4. Standing Water or Soggy Soil in Your Yard

Puddles of water or excessively damp soil above your drain field often indicate an overloaded tank. When your septic tank can no longer process wastewater efficiently, it seeps into the surrounding ground. Not only is this a health hazard, but it also signals that your system requires immediate attention.

5. It’s Been More Than 3 Years Since Your Last Pump-Out

Even if you haven’t noticed any issues, regular maintenance is key to avoiding surprises. Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the size of your household and tank. If it’s been a while, scheduling a routine pump-out is the best way to ensure your system stays in top shape.

How First Call Septic Services Inc. Can Help

At First Call Septic Services Inc., we provide fast, reliable septic tank pump-outs designed to keep your system functioning smoothly.

Our experienced team uses the latest tools to safely and efficiently remove waste, giving you peace of mind.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’ve noticed any of these signs or it’s been a while since your last pump-out, call First Call Septic Services Inc. today at (305) 842-3216 (English) or (305) 590-5974 (Español).

We’re here to keep your septic system running smoothly and your home stress-free. Contact us for a free quote and schedule your pump-out today!

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Mantenimiento de Trampas de Grasa para Restaurantes: Mejores Prácticas para Cumplir con las Normas

By Mijael • February 26, 2025

Introduction For restaurant owners, maintaining a clean and functional grease trap is critical to avoiding costly plumbing issues and staying compliant with local regulations. A poorly managed grease trap can lead to clogs, foul odors, and even fines. At First Call Septic Services Inc. , we help restaurants across Miami-Dade and Broward counties keep their operations running smoothly with professional grease trap cleaning services. Here are the best practices for maintaining your grease trap and staying compliant. 1. Understand How Your Grease Trap Works A grease trap separates fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it enters the plumbing system. Over time, FOG accumulates in the trap, requiring regular cleaning to prevent blockages. Knowing how your grease trap operates and its capacity will help you plan an effective maintenance schedule. 2. Clean Your Grease Trap Regularly Cleaning frequency depends on your kitchen’s volume and the size of your grease trap. As a general rule: Small grease traps should be cleaned every 1-2 weeks. Larger grease traps may require monthly or bi-monthly cleanings. Failing to clean regularly can cause grease to overflow into your plumbing, leading to clogs and costly repairs. 3. Monitor and Record Maintenance Activities Many local regulations require restaurants to maintain records of grease trap cleaning and inspections. Keeping a detailed log of maintenance activities helps you: Stay compliant with health and safety codes. Prove due diligence during inspections. Identify trends that might indicate underlying issues. 4. Train Staff to Properly Dispose of FOG Preventing grease from entering the drain in the first place can extend the life of your grease trap. Train your staff to: Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing. Dispose of liquid oils in designated containers rather than pouring them down the drain. Use strainers in sinks to catch food particles. These small changes can reduce the amount of grease reaching your trap and lower maintenance costs. 5. Work with a Professional Grease Trap Service While some restaurant owners attempt to clean grease traps themselves, hiring a professional ensures: Thorough cleaning with specialized equipment. Safe disposal of grease and other waste materials. Compliance with local environmental regulations. At First Call Septic Services Inc. , our trained technicians provide fast, reliable grease trap cleaning services that keep your kitchen compliant and functional. 6. Schedule Routine Inspections Regular inspections by a professional service can identify potential issues before they escalate. Cracks, leaks, or worn-out components can compromise your grease trap’s effectiveness. Inspections ensure that your system remains in top condition and avoids unexpected breakdowns. Stay Compliant with First Call Septic Services Inc. Our team at First Call Septic Services Inc. understands the unique needs of restaurants in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. With years of experience, we provide tailored grease trap cleaning and maintenance services to ensure your business stays compliant and your plumbing system operates smoothly. Contact us today at (305) 842-3216 (English) or (305) 590-5974 (Español) to schedule your grease trap cleaning and enjoy peace of mind. Protect your business and keep your kitchen running efficiently with First Call Septic Services Inc.

Cómo Encontrar un Servicio Séptico Confiable Cerca de Ti

By Mijael • February 26, 2025

En este artículo, te explicamos cómo elegir la mejor empresa de servicios sépticos en tu área y por qué First Call Septic Services es la mejor opción para los propietarios de viviendas.