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New Year, New Maintenance Goals for Your Septic System

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  A new year is the perfect time to take care of the systems you don’t see—but rely on every day. Your septic system works quietly behind the scenes, and a little attention now can help prevent inconvenient issues later in the year. At Certified Septic , we help homeowners across Lee County and surrounding areas keep their systems running efficiently through routine maintenance and inspections. Why the New Year Matters for Septic Care Holiday guests increase water usage Seasonal residents return Florida’s wet season isn’t far away Starting the year with a plan helps avoid surprises. Simple Septic Goals for the Year Schedule routine septic pumping Have your system inspected if it’s been a few years Learn what should (and shouldn’t) go down the drain Understand whether your system is conventional or aerobic (ATU) How Certified Septic Can Help We provide septic pump outs, inspections, ATU maintenance, lift station service, jetting, and repairs for residen...
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What to Expect when You have Your Septic Tank Pumped Out

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If you’ve never had your septic tank pumped—or it’s been so long you honestly can’t remember—you might be wondering what actually happens. The good news? Septic pumping is routine, straightforward, and one of the best ways to protect your home. At Certified Septic , we believe informed customers make better decisions (and have fewer emergencies). Here’s exactly what to expect. Before the Appointment  A little prep goes a long way: Clear access to the tank area (move vehicles or yard décor) Secure pets If you know where the tank is, great—if not, we’ll find it You don’t need to stop using water or be home the entire time. Locating and Opening the Tank Our technician will safely locate and open the septic tank access point with minimal disruption to your yard. We’ll check: Sludge and scum levels Tank condition Signs of leaks, cracks, or damage This quick inspection helps prevent major issues later. The Pumping Process  Using professional vacuum equipment, we re...
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5 Signs Your Drainfield Is in Trouble (Before It’s Too Late)

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  Your drainfield is the unsung hero of your septic system — quietly working underground to filter wastewater back into the environment. But when it starts to fail, the signs aren’t always dramatic… until they are. If you can spot the warning signs early, you can save yourself thousands in repairs and avoid a smelly, soggy mess in your yard. 1. Grass That’s a Little Too Green If your drainfield area suddenly looks like it belongs on a golf course, that’s not necessarily a compliment. It could mean wastewater is surfacing and over-fertilizing your grass. 2. Slow Drains Throughout the House One slow drain? Probably a clog. All drains slow at once? That’s a system issue — and your drainfield could be the culprit. 3. Soggy or Soft Spots in the Yard Florida lawns get wet from rain, but if the ground near your drainfield is squishy on sunny days, it’s time to call a pro. 4. Foul Odors Outside If you notice a persistent “rotten egg” smell near your septic area, it could be gas esc...
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ATU Septic Systems – Florida’s Advanced Wastewater Solution

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  🚰 Not every property is suited for a traditional septic system—but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) are a proven, Florida-approved solution for cleaner water, smaller drainfields, and longer-lasting septic performance. What is an ATU? An Aerobic Treatment Unit is a high-efficiency wastewater system that uses oxygen-loving bacteria to break down waste faster and more thoroughly than a conventional septic tank . Unlike standard systems, ATUs produce cleaner effluent before it even reaches the drainfield —helping protect groundwater , reduce environmental impact, and extend the life of your system. Why Choose an ATU? ✅ Works in challenging soil conditions Perfect for Florida properties with sandy soil, high water tables, or limited space. ✅ Smaller drainfield requirements Build a larger home on a smaller lot without sacrificing wastewater performance. ✅ Eco-friendly wastewater treatment Cleaner water means less biological material i...
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Are Flushable Wipes Safe for Septic Systems?

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No. Despite being marketed as "flushable," disposable wipes should not be flushed into septic systems. These products do not break down as easily as toilet paper and can cause clogs, backups, and even damage to your septic tank and drain field. Why Flushable Wipes Are a Problem Septic systems rely on natural bacterial processes to break down waste. Unlike toilet paper, which dissolves quickly, flushable wipes remain intact for extended periods. This can lead to: Clogs in Pipes and Tanks – Wipes accumulate and create blockages, leading to costly plumbing repairs. Drain field Failure – Wipes can obstruct the outflow of treated wastewater, potentially causing backups or system failure. Increased Pumping Frequency – Non-biodegradable materials take up space, requiring more frequent septic pumping. What Should You Do Instead? To maintain a healthy septic system, stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper. Dispose of wipes, hygiene products, and other non-biodegradable ...
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Top 5 ATU Maintenance Tips to Keep Your System Running Efficiently

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  Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) offer an advanced and efficient alternative to traditional septic systems, utilizing oxygen to break down waste more effectively. However, to ensure optimal performance and longevity, regular maintenance is essential. Whether you manage a residential property or a commercial facility, proper care of your ATU system can prevent costly repairs and keep everything running smoothly. At Certified Septic, we specialize in maintaining and servicing ATU systems, ensuring they function efficiently for years to come. Here are five crucial ATU system maintenance tips to help you maintain peak performance. 1. Regular Inspections: The Foundation of ATU System Maintenance Routine inspections are critical for keeping your ATU system in top condition. Catching small issues early can prevent expensive repairs and system failures. Why Inspections Matter Regular check-ups help identify potential problems before they escalate. Our trained technicians look for signs of ...
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Signs of a Failing Septic System and How to Prevent It

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A properly functioning septic system is essential for managing household wastewater efficiently. When a septic system starts to fail, it can lead to unpleasant odors, plumbing issues, and potential environmental hazards. Understanding the signs of failure and taking proactive maintenance steps can help prevent costly repairs and health risks. How to Prevent Septic System Failure Regular maintenance is key to keeping your septic system in good condition. To prevent failure, homeowners should: Schedule Regular Inspections – Have a professional inspect your septic system every 1 to 3 years to catch potential issues early. Pump the Tank as Needed – Depending on the size of your tank and household usage, pump the tank every 3 to 5 years or when solids reach two-thirds of the tank's volume. Use Water Efficiently – Reduce excess water use by spacing out laundry loads, fixing leaks, and using water-saving fixtures. Watch What You Flush – Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid d...
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