Earth Day and Septic - Common Misconceptions

Here are the top most common:

Septic companies do not care about the environment

Septic systems are bad for the environment

Septic companies dump waste in the environment

Septic companies use harmful chemicals to clean septic systems

Septic companies don't take conservation seriously

Septic systems contaminate groundwater

Septic companies are not regulated

So let’s get into it!

Septic companies do not care about the environment

Why would they think that Septic Companies don’t care about the environment? Where did this rumor start? I know that our main job deals with something most people over 12 consider to be gross, and vile. But somebody’s gotta do it. It doesn’t mean we need to be cast as the villain in the community’s story. If you need a villain, there has to be a better one than the poop pumpers.

Septic systems are bad for the environment

To make matters worse many people think that septic systems are bad for the environment. In fact the opposite is true. By setting up a system to deal with the waste from your home, we allow homeowners to use sanitary facilities that are managed and maintained. It wasn’t too long ago that people used outhouses in the Hudson Valley. Not only were they bad for your exposed tushy in the winter, they were likely to cause groundwater contamination. 

Septic companies dump waste in the environment

They even believe septic companies dump waste in the environment.  Fun fact: septic companies are licensed and monitored by the Department of Environmental Conservation and the local Departments of Health. And just in case you worry that these governmental agencies might miss something, you can be sure that concerned citizens who think they see something being done improperly will report it.

Septic companies use harmful chemicals to clean septic systems

Another falsehood is that septic companies use harmful chemicals to clean septic systems.  I think the reason people might think this is that they have never been up close and personal when their septic guy is working on their system or pumping it out. We don’t blame you, believe me. But, Herring doesn’t need chemicals to work with septic because all we are doing is pumping out whatever you put there. So actually, if you’re worried about harmful chemicals, you should look in a mirror. ;-) The Herrings had a house fire years ago and the neighbors could be heard on a recording saying “ Oh God that house must be full of chemicals.” I don't think so.

Septic companies don't take conservation seriously

Herring’s owner and founder, Jimmy Herring, has overheard people saying this. We’re not sure what people mean when they say this but you can be sure we take conservation very seriously. In fact, you may have overheard Herring coaching their customers on how to be more conservative with water usage and additives.

Septic systems contaminate groundwater

The fear that Septic systems contaminate groundwater is real.  Not, of course, if the septic system is installed properly and maintained as directed by their septic company. But, an overused and old, not properly serviced septic system does contaminate the groundwater. So make sure you are pumping the tank regularly and don’t put off maintenance and repairs when they come up.

Septic systems require a lot of water

Lastly, the talk of a Septic system requiring a lot of water is of course ridiculous.  A septic system is meant to handle the water that comes from the home or the facility it services.  It does not require water but treats it instead. 

In closing, Herring Sanitation can be counted on to follow all regulations to keep our customers and our environment safe.  If you know of any other concern not mentioned, comment below or give Sharon Herring a call to get the correct information at 845-226-5405.