Residential & Commercial Excavation & Septic Services

aka Subsurface Sewage Disposal System or Onsite Wastewater System

What Is A Septic System?

The purpose of the septic system is to dispose of wastewater generated by the building occupants into the soil in a way that does not adversely affect groundwater, public health or the environment. The components of a septic system include exterior piping that connects the building's plumbing to the septic tank, the septic tank that collects the solids and begins the breakdown of waste material by bacterial action, a distribution system which directs the flow of wastewater from the tank to the drainage system and a drainage system which disperses the wastewater into the surrounding soil.

Septic System Failure

A septic system may be considered "failing" for various reasons but typically a septic system would be considered failed when it presents a danger to public health and/or the environment. A properly installed and well-maintained septic system can function almost indefinately, however the reality is that problems do occur. Evidence of a septic system problem and potential failure may include exceptionally green grass over the leaching area, ponding or mushy area indicating wastewater coming to the surface, plumbing fixtures backing up into the home or foul odor outdoors. If you are experiencing any of these problems, your interests are best served by addressing the issue promptly. Failing septic systems are a health and environmental hazard and can significantly reduce your home's value.

What Can Cause A Septic System To Fail?

• Improper Maintenance and Care of the Septic System

  As the property owner, you are responsible for the proper use and maintenance of your septic system. Septic tank pumping is a relatively inexpensive and critical component to maintaining your septic system. Failing to have the septic tank emptied on a regular basis can cause solid matter to escape into the leaching area. The leaching area is designed for wastewater only and once the leaching area is damaged by a buildup of solid matter you have an expensive repair to deal with. Also, do not treat your septic system as a garbage can. There are some good practices to follow on a daily basis to protect your septic system. See our Septic FAQ page for what you can do to protect and maintain the life of your septic system.

• Change in Usage
  A change in usage usually results when a home is sold and the number of building occupants increases. For example, a septic system (especially an older septic system) that may have functioned well for years for two building occupants may be unable to handle the increased water usage generated by a family of five.
• Drainage Issues
  Poor drainage can lead to problems with the septic system. Never direct gutter downspouts or other runoff into or near your septic system. If you are in an area with a high ground water table, proper drainage measures around your system are critical to protect your system from flooding.
• Age of Septic System
  Although it is possible for a septic system to function properly for many years, an older septic system is most likely not up to current standards. Failure can occur because over time the soil has naturally compacted and can no longer efficiently absorb the wastewater, tree roots can invade the system area causing damage to underground piping and system components, the leaching area and/or the tank size may be undersized according to current standards for the current number of building occupants.
• Improper Septic System Installation
  Be sure to use a licensed septic system installer (Sub-Surface Sewage Installer) and be sure that all work is inspected by your local health department, as required. A septic system is an expensive and critical component to your home's infrastructure. Do your homework, ask for references, talk to your neighbors.

Andrews-Perry Construction, Inc. is State of Connecticut licensed and we have been installing and repairing septic systems for more than 23 years. Your contact with Andrews-Perry will always be with an owner of the company, either Joe or Peter. If you are building a new home or commercial building, adding on to an existing building or if you are experiencing difficulties with your septic system, call us for more information. To learn more about septic systems and how they function use our Links page to visit your local health department and the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health for more information and publications.