Anyone have a septic system and experienced flooded fields?

[RaRa]

We now realize that the so-called septic and well inspection we had was a fraud. Anyway, we're having the tank cleaned tomorrow by a company that also does terralifting. We don't know how bad our fields are and we're getting opinions that cover a wide range of options. Obviously, our first hope/choice is that we can buy something like Septic Seep or some bacteria that goes directly into the diffusion box or tank and the lines will clear. Has anyone here had success with that option? We just had a complete roof tear off and the prospect of another expense in the thousands is terrifying. We're in really big trouble here.

[politicat]

1. What are conditions in your area?

I grew up sometimes having them (and dealing w. them most summers when we went to the family farm), and every spring the damn things flooded with the spring rains. So for several weeks, we were very, very, very water conscious, taking tiny and less frequent showers, washing clothes at the washateria, that kind of thing. Basically, the concept was to reduce waste water production to as low as possible until the field had a chance to pick itself up and get back with the program.

There are bacteria boosters that you can flush, but if you're having it pumped out (and that's relatively inexpensive - $150 or so, compared to several thou to replace or enlarge the system) and the bacteria replaced, and you're careful for a few weeks to let everything get established, you should be okay (but I am not an expert.)

My grandfather's house has this book, and it's pretty much the bible. You might look into it. http://www.shelterpub.com/_shelter/ssom_book.html

[FloridaPat]

2. I have a septic tank here in Florida. It's in the ground and during

the summer the water table is around 6-12 inches below the surface. Haven't had any problem with it.