The Septic Scoop

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 to ensure your system operates efficiently and lasts for years. Follow these expert tips to keep your septic system in top shape: 1. Schedule Regular Pumping Even though Certified Septic does not currently offer pumping services, it’s crucial to have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years by a reputable provider. Regular pumping prevents solids from building up and clogging your system, ensuring efficient wastewater treatment. Learn more about septic system care . 2. Use Water Wisely Excessive water usage can overload your septic system. Conserve water by: Fixing leaky faucets and pipes. Using high-efficiency toilets and showerheads. Spreading out laundry loads over the week. 3. Avoid Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items Never flush items such as: Wet wipes (even those labeled “flushable”). Feminine hygiene products. Dental floss or cotton swabs. Harsh chemicals or grease. Stick to toilet paper and septic-safe products. Learn more about what not...