Ten Point Checklist

Our technicians don't just pump and run. We do a 10 point check list each time we pump your septic tank. Below is an explanation of each point evaluated during your C.F. Heckman Service Check, performed with your regular pumping service.

1. Depth of Lid - A measurement of how deep under the ground the lid of the septic tank is. Service lids that are below grade may result in extra digging and locating charges at the time of your septic service. If the depth of your tank is 6 inches or greater, you may want to consider installing a riser which brings the lid to grade.
2. Condition of Lid - An assessment of the physical integrity of the service lid of the septic tank. The service lid provides access to the septic tank and a secure seal when in place preventing foreign matter such as dirt, rocks, etc from entering the tank. A lid in poor condition is a safety hazard and increases the risk of infiltration and potential collapse.
3. Size of Opening - A measurement of the service access point of the septic tank. Usually there are three openings on a septic tank; two small baffle inspection openings (approx 5") and one large main opening (approx 24"). The service of your septic tank must be performed through the main lid to ensure adequate access.
4. Scum Blanket Depth - A measurement of the amount of floatable present at the top of the septic tank. If the scum mat on top of the tank becomes too thick this material can be carried out to the drain field which may cause irreversible damage to your system. Scum blankets exceeding 6 inches in depth indicate a need to increase pumping frequency.
5. Sludge Depth - A measurement of the amount of solids present at the bottom of the septic tank. Solids will also begin to enter the drain field if they become too thick, which may also cause irreversible damage to your system. Sludge levels exceeding 10 inches in depth indicate a need to increase pumping frequency.
6. Water Run Back From Field - An observation of water flowing back into the tank from the drain field during pumping. If this is seen, it may be an indication of a damaged drain. A more in-depth assessment of the septic system should be performed by a C.F. Heckman professional.
7. Water Flow from House - An observation of water flowing into the tank from the home. Your Technician will ask you to flush a toilet in your home to confirm an unimpeded flow in the septic tank. A poor flow from the home may indicate a clog and if not addressed could result in unsanitary back-up conditions. Jetting or snaking may be considered to address this problem.
8. Sewage Over Drain Field - An observation of sewage on the ground over the drain field. This is usually observed in conjunction with run back from the drain field and is an indication of an over saturated drain field. A more in-depth assessment should be performed by a C.F.Heckman professional.
9. Inlet Baffle - An observation of the condition of the inlet baffle inside of the septic tank. The inlet baffle directs incoming sewage downward below the liquid level minimizing disruption of the liquid and solid layers inside the tank. A broken and/or missing inlet baffle needs to be repaired in order for the tank to function properly.
10. Outlet Baffle - An observation of the condition of the outlet baffle inside of the septic tank. The outlet baffle prevents the scum material and retained solids from entering the drain field. A broken and/or missing outlet baffle needs to be repaired in order to maintain the integrity of the drain field.