The Importance of Proper Commercial Septic System Operation

Commercial kitchen with cooking team at work

Septic system operation is essential anywhere, but nowhere is it more vital than the commercial world, where failure can have consequences for the environment, your business reputation, and your budget. With C & H Disposal Service, Inc., learn more about why proper commercial septic system operation is important and the steps you can take to ensure your system is well maintained.

Unique Challenges

Commercial septic systems face unique challenges for operation. Though their purpose and basic components are the same as residential septic systems, they must process much greater volumes. Restaurants, hotels, retailers, and office buildings produce far more wastewater than private residences. This puts additional strain on the septic system, meaning that problems can develop faster.

In addition, businesses are subject to strict regulations. Noncompliance can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and even the loss of your business.

Due to the high pressure generated by water volumes and local regulations, the risks of poor maintenance are more severe for commercial systems. Problems can arise quickly and, if left unattended, cause serious damage to your property, business, and reputation. This is why proper operation of a commercial septic system is paramount. The fate of your business may be at stake.

Benefits of Proper Operation

As disastrous as failure may be, proper operation comes with its rewards. Not only will your business avoid severe consequences, but it will also enjoy reduced costs and downtime. By operating a septic system properly, you can:

  • Demonstrate environmental awareness and responsibility.
  • Identify issues early and avoid costly repairs.
  • Extend your system’s lifespan by reducing wear and tear.
  • Prevent damage caused by sewer backups.
  • Eliminate business disruptions during repairs.
  • Comply with local regulations.
  • Improve your business reputation.

With all this on the table, there is ample reason to stay on top of septic system maintenance.

Essential Steps in Commercial Septic System Maintenance

Luckily, septic system maintenance is uncomplicated and inexpensive if performed properly. Here are tips from C & H Disposal Service, Inc. on how to keep your system running at top capacity:

Dispose Responsibly

Septic systems are not trash cans. Most are only designed to handle water and human waste, and quickly become clogged if filled with other materials. This includes items like:

  • Food waste
  • Non-flushable wipes
  • Cooking grease or oil
  • Hygiene products
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Toxic chemicals

None of these items should be flushed into a septic system for any reason. Front loader dumpster rentals are available to businesses that need a disposal solution.

Keep Drain Fields Clear

The drain field is an important component of your septic system that is responsible for removing contaminants from water as it emerges. To function effectively, it must be kept clear. Make sure you know where your drain field is located. Do not park or drive there, do not plant trees or large shrubs, and do not place other drainage systems where they may interfere with the drain field.

Pump and Inspect Regularly

Because commercial septic systems are larger and handle more waste than residential systems, they also require more frequent pumping. Regular pump-outs remove solid waste build-up to eliminate blockages and allow the system to run at full capacity. Pumping is also an opportunity to inspect the system, which lets you identify and address potential issues before they become severe.

Provide Prompt Repairs

If routine inspection identifies a potential issue, it’s important to repair the problem as soon as possible. Even minor wear and tear can escalate into a serious problem if ignored or put under stress. By responding promptly to issues as they emerge, you can avoid major failure and keep cheap repairs from turning into expensive fixes.

Maintain Grease Traps

If you run a restaurant or other food establishment, then your septic system likely comes with a grease trap. This device filters fat, oil, and grease (FOG) out of your wastewater, keeping them from entering the septic system. Maintenance is necessary to keep a grease trap from overflowing and prevent blockages caused by solidified FOG.

Educate Employees

As a business or business property owner, you’re in charge of the septic system – but you aren’t the only person with an impact on its performance. Employees also hold responsibility for the items they flush. Anybody who deals with the septic system directly also needs to be trained in proper operation. Employee education programs and clear signage can reduce the chances of accidental misuse.

Arrange Septic Maintenance with C & H Disposal Service, Inc.

If you own or manage a commercial septic system and need professional maintenance, reach out to C & H Disposal Service, Inc. We have over 45 years of experience providing septic system installation, cleaning, repair, and inspection throughout South New Jersey, and have an excellent reputation for service. You can contact us by calling or by visiting on-location at 47 Griers Lane, Elmer, NJ 08318.