FAQs About Septic Systems in New Jersey
Over the years, the certified technicians at Atlantic Sitton Services have been asked many questions about septic systems in New Jersey. We have collected questions that we hear most often and provided brief answers. We provide a variety of services related to septic and sewer systems, grease trap cleaning, cooking oil collection and recycling, and cold and hot jetting services to unclog pipes. Atlantic Sitton Services offers septic services, including installation and repair, throughout New Jersey.
In our experience, most one- to three-bedroom houses are equipped with 1,000-gallon tanks. Four- to five-bedroom homes usually hold 1,200 to 1,500 gallons. Larger homes and commercial properties vary by design and function.
The type of septic system in your home may depend on the area in which it was built. Common types include:
- Septic tank with a leach field, or disposal field
- Septic tank with seepage tank
- High-mound systems
- Treatment systems
- Pinelands systems
- Cesspools in homes built 20 years ago
Depending on how much use your septic system receives additives can help. Caution is recommended if using commercialized septic system treatments, however, because they can cause harm.
Non-commercialized additives for septic systems are specifically designed for local areas. They are a mixture of enzymes and bacteria that help break down sewage.
Exercise caution with sprinkler systems; they can affect your septic system if they are not monitored sufficiently for leaks and saturation levels. Install sprinkler lines only around the perimeter of leach fields.
Yes, tree roots may enter rusted or broken pipes. If tree roots wrap around the pipes, the pressure can also cause them to deform, which may inhibit the free flow of water in the septic system. Damage from tree roots may result in the need for septic repair services.
When toilets run and faucets leak, the extra water can strain the septic system.
We advise that clients don’t build on the site of the septic system and refrain from driving or parking on the area. A preventative maintenance plan with Atlantic Sitton Services can also help extend the life of your septic system.
Households with one to three people should clean the septic system every two years. Four to five people using the system means it should be cleaned every year. Larger households may require septic cleaning services every six months.
If the septic system isn’t inspected and cleaned regularly sludge can build up. Solid sludge can break up and float to the top of a poorly operating septic system, slowing the flow and depositing sludge into the absorption area or leach field. This can result in septic system failure.
Water will absorb at a slower rate, and you may see it pooling in the yard. Backups into the home and unpleasant odors are other signs of a failing septic system.
The longevity of your septic system depends on the type of system installed. Traditional systems with proper maintenance usually last 20 to 25 years.
Permits are required for new septic system installation in New Jersey.
Atlantic Sitton Services will obtain the permit when installing a new septic system at your residence or business.
Always use a certified contractor to inspect the septic system of the house you plan to purchase.
Atlantic Sitton Services operate throughout New Jersey, including Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, Burlington, and Mercer counties.
Choose your septic service company based on reviews and references, and make sure they hold a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) license.
Customers are encouraged to ask us specific questions about their septic systems. We offer individualized schedules for regular inspections and cleaning, as well as preventative maintenance contracts. Our certified technicians can determine if there are problems with your septic system and discuss solutions with you. Contact us for a free estimate.