The Septic Scoop

  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...

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...

  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...

  🚰 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...

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 ...

  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 ...

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...

 As we enter a new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on resolutions that make a difference not just for us but for our homes as well. Your septic system works hard every day to keep your household running smoothly, so why not show it some love this year? Here are the top 5 resolutions for keeping your septic system healthy in the year ahead:                                                                       1. Schedule Regular Inspections  Just like your annual health check-up, your septic system needs regular inspections to catch potential issues before they become costly problems. A professional inspection ensures everything is functioning correctly and helps you avoid unpleasant surprises down the line. Tip : Aim to have your septic system inspected at least onc...

Lift station systems play a crucial role in wastewater management, yet misconceptions about their lifespan, maintenance, and reliability persist. In this article, we’ll separate fact from fiction, shedding light on their environmental impact and their role in septic systems across Southwest Florida. Myth #1: Lift Stations Have a Short Lifespan Reality: When properly maintained, a lift station can operate efficiently for 15–25 years. Routine inspections, timely repairs, and quality components significantly extend their longevity, making them a reliable wastewater solution. Myth #2: Lift Stations Require Constant Maintenance Reality: While maintenance is essential, modern lift stations are designed for efficiency. Scheduled servicing, such as pump inspections, cleaning, and monitoring control panels, helps prevent costly breakdowns and ensures smooth operation with minimal intervention. Myth #3: Lift Stations Are Unreliable Reality: Advances in technology have improved lift station re...

Lift Station Regulations in Southwest Florida: What You Need to Know  When it comes to lift station installations and maintenance in Southwest Florida, staying compliant with local regulations is key. At Certified Septic , we specialize in inspections, maintenance, and installations to ensure your lift station meets all Lee County and state requirements. Key Compliance Points: Lee County Requirements : Lift stations in Lee County must meet specific design and operational guidelines. Certified Septic ensures your system is compliant during installation and operation. Permits & Inspections : Obtaining permits and passing inspections is essential. We handle the permitting process and conduct thorough inspections to ensure your lift station is up to code. Commercial Standards : Commercial lift stations must adhere to FDEP standards. Certified Septic guarantees your system can handle larger volumes while staying compliant. Installation Impact : Local regulations, including flood zo...

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) are advanced septic systems designed to treat wastewater efficiently while protecting the environment. Regular maintenance and compliance with local and state regulations are essential to keep your system running smoothly. In this guide, we’ll cover the importance of ATU upkeep, key maintenance practices, and regulatory requirements every homeowner should know. What Are ATUs? ATUs are specialized onsite wastewater treatment systems that use oxygen to accelerate the breakdown of waste. Unlike traditional septic systems, ATUs introduce air into the treatment process, improving effluent quality and making them ideal for areas with poor soil conditions, high groundwater, or strict environmental guidelines. Why Regular ATU Maintenance Matters Proper maintenance is crucial for preventing system failures, avoiding costly repairs, and ensuring compliance. Neglecting ATU care can lead to: System Overloading – Excess solids can clog the system and cause breakdowns...

 Pumps and floats are critical components in the operation of ATUs (Aerobic Treatment Units) , lift stations , and wastewater facilities . These devices work in tandem with your control panels to manage the flow and treatment of wastewater, ensuring your system runs smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how pumps and floats function within your system and why they’re essential for optimal performance. Pumps: The Heart of Your System Pumps are responsible for moving wastewater through your system, ensuring it’s properly treated or transferred to the next stage of processing. In an ATU , the pump moves wastewater through various stages of aerobic treatment. In a lift station , pumps push wastewater uphill to connect to the main sewer system. There are several types of pumps commonly used in control panel systems: Submersible Pumps : These pumps are placed directly in the wastewater and are ideal for systems with high-volume or long-distance pumping n...

Maintaining a healthy septic system starts with understanding what can and cannot be flushed. While it might seem convenient to dispose of various household items down the drain, certain materials can cause serious damage to your septic system and lead to costly repairs. Here's a quick guide on what to flush and what to avoid. What You Can Flush: Human Waste and Toilet Paper – These are the only items that should be flushed regularly. Toilet paper breaks down in the septic tank, allowing waste to decompose effectively. Biodegradable Products – Some biodegradable wipes and cleaning products are safe to flush in small amounts, but it’s always best to check product labels. What You Should Not Flush: Grease and Oils – Cooking oils and grease can clog pipes and disrupt the natural bacteria in your septic system. Non-Biodegradable Wipes – Even if labeled as "flushable," wipes (including baby wipes, makeup wipes, and disinfecting wipes) don’t break down properly and can lead...

Tree Roots vs. Your Septic System: What Southwest Florida Homeowners Need to Know In Southwest Florida, the picturesque landscapes and lush greenery create the perfect backdrop for homeowners to enjoy nature. But beneath this beauty lies a silent threat to septic systems—tree root infiltration. Left unchecked, invasive roots can lead to costly repairs, environmental hazards, and disruptions to your home’s functionality. The good news? Certified Septic is here to help you tackle this issue head-on. What Is Tree Root Infiltration? Tree roots naturally seek out water and nutrients, making your septic system’s pipes and tanks an attractive target. Even the smallest cracks in pipes can allow roots to penetrate. Over time, these intrusions grow, potentially causing untreated wastewater to leak into your yard and even the surrounding environment. Warning Signs of Tree Root Infiltration Stay vigilant for these red flags: Slow-draining sinks or toilets Gurgling sounds in your plumbing Unpleasan...

Frequently Asked Questions About Septic Lift Stations Welcome to the Certified Septic FAQ page! We’re here to answer your most pressing questions about septic lift stations. As experts serving Lee County, Florida, and surrounding areas, we provide professional septic services, including maintenance and inspections for lift stations. Below, you'll find answers to the most common questions about septic lift stations, organized for easy navigation. Understanding Septic Lift Stations What is a septic lift station? A septic lift station is a critical component of a septic system that moves wastewater from lower elevations to higher ones when gravity alone is insufficient. This ensures the efficient flow of wastewater to the treatment or disposal area. How does a septic lift station work? A lift station consists of a pump, control panel, and collection tank. When wastewater enters the tank, sensors or floats activate the pump, which then pushes the wastewater through pipes to a higher el...

Proper septic tank maintenance is essential for keeping your system working efficiently—especially in Southwest Florida , where high water tables and heavy rain can put extra stress on septic systems. Following these expert tips can help prevent backups, extend the life of your system, and avoid costly repairs. Schedule Regular Septic Pumping Septic tanks should be pumped every 3–5 years , depending on household size and usage. Routine pumping removes built-up solids that can clog pipes, damage drain fields, and cause system failure. Not sure when your tank was last pumped? Certified Septic can help you figure it out. Use Water Wisely Excess water can overwhelm your septic system. Reduce strain by: Fixing leaky faucets and toilets Using high-efficiency plumbing fixtures Spacing out laundry loads This is especially important during Florida’s rainy season. Never Flush These Items Avoid flushing: Wet wipes (yes, even “flushable” ones) Feminine hygiene products Dental flo...

When it comes to managing your property, maintaining your septic system is crucial. For homeowners and businesses in Lee County and surrounding areas, Certified Septic is here to help you understand the importance of regular septic system care. From inspections to maintenance, taking proactive steps can significantly prolong the lifespan of your system and save you from costly repairs. Want to learn more about septic systems? Visit our FAQ section on CertifiedSepticFL.com for answers to commonly asked questions. Why Regular Septic Maintenance Matters Septic systems are the backbone of waste management in many homes and businesses. Over time, systems can develop issues that, if left unaddressed, may lead to costly repairs or replacement. By scheduling regular inspections and maintenance with Certified Septic, you’ll ensure your system operates efficiently for years to come. Benefits of regular inspections and maintenance include: Cost Savings: Identify and address small issues be...