Author: Dorthy Attwood

How Your Septic Tank Works

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When you dream of moving out to the country, your septic tank may be among the things that are not at the forefront of your mind. However, septic systems are essential to the health of your new home.

Septic Tank

Keeping your septic system well maintained will prevent damage to the drain field and groundwater, causing illness in humans and harmful impacts on local wildlife and flora. Contact Septic Tank Armadale for professional help.

Wastewater generated from toilets, bathing and kitchen sinks, garbage disposals and washing machines drains into a septic tank underneath your home. Solids are held in the septic tank and liquid wastewater is discharged into a buried drain field.

The septic tank is usually made of concrete or high-quality plastic and comes in a range of sizes to suit your house. It has an inlet wastewater pipe and an outlet water pipe. It has baffle walls to direct wastewater flow and prevent the inlet and outlet pipes from clogging with sludge and scum.

During anaerobic digestion in the septic tank, heavy solids sink to the bottom of the tank and light solids float to the top. Bacteria decomposes the sludge into liquids and gases. Gases are released through the vent in the septic tank lid. The system may also include a filter to reduce the amount of hydrogen sulfide that enters your house through the plumbing.

Septic tanks are often located in the backyard, near the property line and beneath landscaping. They’re designed to blend in with the yard and are typically large and rounded, which reduces surface erosion that could damage the system. They’re also often constructed of septic-safe materials such as fiberglass or polymers.

In addition to the inlet and outlet pipes, your septic tank may have a distribution box and an absorption field. The distribution box evenly distributes the wastewater flow to the leach field’s trenches, so that each one doesn’t get overloaded.

The leach field is a network of perforated pipes buried in the soil. The soil acts as a natural treatment zone, absorbing the wastewater and releasing the cleaned effluent back into the environment.

The tank and leach field require proper maintenance to extend their service life. This includes regular pumping and inspections by a licensed septage waste transporter. It’s important to limit the amount of non-biodegradable products you flush down your toilet, such as cigarette butts, cotton swabs and menstrual hygiene products. The use of chemical products that don’t break down can disrupt the bacteria in your septic system.

How does a septic tank work?

Wastewater from toilets and the drains in your kitchen, bath, laundry, and sinks runs into the main drainage pipe that leads to your septic tank. Solid materials in the wastewater settle to the bottom of the septic tank, where they form a layer of sludge. Fats, oils, and grease float to the top of the wastewater, where they form a layer of floats (also known as scum). Anaerobic bacteria in the septic tank feed on organic wastewater pollutants in the sludge and scum layers and partially treat the sewage. The filtered liquids then exit the tank through a pipe that enters the soil.

As the liquid septic tank effluent seeps into the soil, it passes through a filter of gravel and perforated pipes in your septic drain field (also called a leach or absorption field). The septic system uses gravity to move wastewater from the house to the tank and from the tank to the drain field. The drain field is a shallow area of uncovered soil that filters the effluent through rocks, dirt, and sand. The bacteria in the drain field further treat the sewage.

The drain field also prevents the septic system from overflowing into surface waterways. However, if a high amount of solids are allowed to build up in the septic tank or if the sludge and scum are not removed regularly, the solids will flow into the drain field and clog the system.

A septic system may also fail if it is located in an inappropriate site or the tank is not properly maintained. The location of a septic system must adhere to setbacks and minimum distance requirements. A septic tank and drain field must be a reasonable distance from a drinking water well, swimming pool, play area, driveway, and storage building. The septic tank and drain field should also be a minimum of 5 feet away from any structure or plant.

What is a drain field?

A drain field (also known as a leachfield or absorption field) is the final destination for your home’s wastewater after it leaves the septic tank. It is a network of pipes, trenches and gravel that helps your septic system work efficiently. It also helps keep unpleasant odors at bay, which is a good thing because nobody likes sewage smells!

Your septic system relies on the natural filtration capabilities of soil, and hardworking microorganisms in your drain field to remove pathogens and absorb nutrients. Keeping your septic tank and drain field well-maintained will help ensure they last for years to come.

As solid waste settles in the septic tank, liquid wastewater – called effluent – trickles through the distribution box and into the drain field. It moves through a series of perforated pipes laid in gravel-filled trenches. Once the wastewater reaches the drain field, it’s distributed to areas of the soil where it’s slowly absorbed into the groundwater.

The drain field can last up to 30 years if it is properly maintained. Signs that it needs to be inspected or replaced include foul odors coming from the toilets, wet or soggy areas over the drain field, and sewage backup in sinks and toilets.

When designing and installing a drain field, technicians consider factors such as soil type, size and grade, and water drainage rates. They may even conduct a percolation test to assess the soil’s ability to absorb and discharge wastewater. Soils that are sandy and have poor porosity do not drain as easily as clay soils. The design of your septic system depends on the results of this test.

It’s possible to landscape over your septic drain field, but you should avoid planting anything that requires deep roots. The roots of these plants can invade the drain field pipes and clog them. Using bacterial additives can help prevent this from happening.

It’s also important to avoid putting fats, oils and grease (FOG) down your drains. This can lead to a thick crust that blocks the interior of your septic tank and septic system. It can also cause the drain field to overwork and fail.

How often should I pump my septic tank?

Often, homeowners do not know how often their septic system needs to be pumped. Pumping on a regular schedule helps to ensure the bacteria is healthy and ready for sewage treatment. This will prevent clogged drains and field failure, which can lead to health hazards including bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases.

Septic tank pumping frequency is based on the size of the septic system, household size and whether or not a garbage disposal is used. A larger tank with a family of four will need to be pumped more frequently than a smaller tank with a single person living alone. In addition, the use of a garbage disposal adds food waste to the wastewater which can increase the rate at which sludge and scum build up in the septic tank.

There are a few signs to look out for that can indicate it is time to have the tank pumped. Slow drains, unusual odors near your drains and gurgling noises are all indications that the system is overloaded and requires immediate attention.

In addition to routine septic tank pumping, there are other things you can do to help the septic system run more efficiently. Avoid using drain cleaners, harsh detergents and other chemicals in the home as they can disturb the bacteria in the septic system. It is also a good idea to only flush septic safe toilet paper. Other items that should be avoided are baby wipes, cleaning wipes, moist towelettes and feminine hygiene products like tampons and pads. It is also important to avoid pouring oil-based paints, solvents, or any other toxic chemicals down the drains as they will not break down and could clog the septic system.

It is also a good idea to keep vehicles, equipment and livestock off of the septic system and the drainfield area as they can compact the soil, which will hinder the flow of sewage through the pipe into the drain field. Finally, it is a good idea to avoid planting or growing any plants over the septic system as they can block the absorption process.

Roasted Corn Hushpuppies

Food No Comments

Hush puppies, a popular side dish in the South, are cornmeal batter shaped into small balls or oblong fritters and fried until crispy outside and tender-chewy inside. Various theories surround the origin of this beloved snack. One theory is that fish-camp cooks threw fried pieces of cornmeal batter to wailing hound dogs to silence them.

Roasted Corn Hushpuppies

A side dish staple for fish fries and barbecue in the South, hush puppies are golden fritters made from a batter that’s often shaped into balls or oblongs. They’re fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The flavor of the fried batter is often complemented by the addition of sweet corn kernels or chopped green onion. Contact Our Palafox for more information.

Though recipes vary, a basic hush puppy recipe is typically comprised of yellow or white cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder and soda, buttermilk or milk and eggs. The savory base lends itself to riffing with other ingredients like cheese, scallions or spicy peppers. While hush puppies are traditionally fried, they can also be baked or prepared in an air fryer for a lower-fat option that still delivers the same delicious results.

While the exact origins of hush puppies are unclear, they certainly have some colorful lore. The most common story is that the fried balls of cornmeal dough were used to quiet barking dogs during the Civil War. Other stories tell of how Romeo Govan, a well-known fish fryer in Bamberg, Orangeburg and Dorchester counties in South Carolina, created the dish. Some even speculate that hush puppies were named after the sound they make when you eat them.

To prepare hush puppies, combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir until thoroughly combined. Gradually add milk, stirring to create a thick batter. Stir in corn, green onions and egg until combined.

Heat a heavy skillet or deep fryer with enough oil to reach a temperature of 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Test the oil by dropping a pinch of batter into it; if it sizzles, the batter is ready. Spoon batter by heaping teaspoonfuls into the hot oil and cook until golden brown on each side. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Hush puppies pair well with a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, barbecue, chili and coleslaw. They’re also popular for breakfast and brunch. They’re especially good served with fresh lemony herb yogurt sauce. To store leftover hush puppies, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.

Prep Time

If you’ve never had hush puppies, they are basically little balls of cornbread batter that are deep-fried until they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The simple batter can be flavored in many different ways and the end result is always delicious. It takes less than 10 ingredients to make these fried treats, most of which are pantry essentials that you probably already have on hand.

A few quick notes about the ingredients:

This recipe calls for yellow cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, pepper and onion powder. The basic batter is fairly versatile and can be riffed upon with the addition of other ingredients like scallions, cheese, beer, or spices. The basic recipe is also a great starting point for other variations, such as sweet corn hushpuppies or spicy cheesy jalapeno ones.

The origin of the name hush puppy is a bit of a mystery, but there are several theories. Some say that it refers to Civil War lore, where Confederate soldiers would toss fried pieces of cornmeal dough to barking dogs in order to quiet them and avoid detection by Yankee soldiers. Others say the name is an amalgam of words, such as husk, hush and puppy.

Hush puppies are a classic southern food and they’re usually served with fish fry or barbecue as a side dish. They are also a popular appetizer at many seafood restaurants and can be easily made in your own kitchen.

These hush puppies are easy to make, but be sure to pay attention to the frying temperature. It’s important to use a thermometer and fry in batches to prevent overcrowding the oil. It’s best to start with the oil at around 375 degrees, and then check it frequently as it heats. If it gets too hot, the hushpuppies will become soggy and oil-logged. If it’s not hot enough, they’ll be greasy and undercooked. A good way to test the oil’s temperature is to drop a small piece of batter into it. If it sizzles immediately, it’s ready to use. If not, it needs to be heated a little longer.

Cook Time

A fried fish fry isn’t complete without some sweet corn hush puppies. These savory, sweet-and-tasty treats are made from a mixture of ground cornmeal and other ingredients that is dropped into hot oil in a form of small spheres and fried until crisp and golden brown. They are often served as a side dish with fried catfish, shrimp or other seafood, but you can also enjoy them on their own.

They are also very good reheated in the oven or air fryer. Just be sure to thaw them first to avoid the texture becoming tough and dense. They can even be frozen for later use, but they’ll lose some of their crispiness in the process.

Hush puppies are simple to make, but they do have some tricky steps to get the best results. It’s important to mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then stir them together very gently. Overmixing will produce tough, dense hush puppies instead of the light and fluffy ones you’re looking for. Another thing to pay close attention to is the cooking temperature of the oil. It needs to be hot enough so that the hush puppies cook through, but not so hot that they burn. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the heat by spooning a little batter into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.

There are many stories behind the name of hush puppies, but most of them involve loud barking dogs. One theory is that escaped slaves who were trying to find their way to freedom would carry little bits of fried cornmeal with them so they could quiet the yapping dogs that might lead to their capture.

Pour the vegetable oil into a large cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375 degrees F. Working in batches, carefully drop a heaping tablespoon of the batter into the hot oil with a slotted spoon. Fry the hush puppies until golden brown, turning them to cook evenly on all sides.

Serving

When you make these Roasted Corn Hushpuppies, they’re sure to become a favorite appetizer or side dish. They are easy to prepare and take less than ten ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand. They are also a fairly quick recipe, making them ideal for a weeknight meal. These savory hush puppies will also be a hit at your next dinner party or summer shindig.

There are many theories about how hushpuppies got their name, but one popular theory is that Civil War-era slaves who were trying to escape to freedom carried small bits of fried cornmeal in their pockets to silence the barking dogs that might have led them into trouble or back to capture.

Regardless of their name, it’s clear that these fried cornmeal orbs are an American classic. They are a staple of seafood restaurants across the country, and they’re almost always served alongside fried catfish or shrimp. Hushpuppies are also a common feature at South Carolina fish fries.

Although they can be eaten on their own, hushpuppies are typically served with a variety of toppings to create unique flavor combinations. For example, you might serve them with a creamy, lemony herb yogurt sauce or a spicy and citrusy chile verde sauce. Other toppings that go well with hushpuppies include chopped green onion, shredded cheese and pickles.

These hushpuppies are best when served hot, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days and reheated at a later date. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes.

When you’re ready to make these scrumptious Roasted Corn Hushpuppies, heat two inches of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches 360 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s easiest to work in batches when frying the batter. Drop a few tablespoons of the mix into the oil to cook, and gently press them down with the back of a spoon. It’s important to press them down to prevent the hushpuppies from breaking up and falling apart in the hot oil.

Getting The Best Legal Advice From Pros

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Legal Advice From Pros

Legal advice is written or oral counsel provided by a licensed attorney who has the knowledge, education and professional experience to assist clients. It can help them navigate legal complexities or settle civil disputes.

Avvo is a great online resource for individuals seeking legal advice. They have a lawyer directory and free Q&A that helps people get answers to their questions.

1. Look for Experience

Whether it’s an attorney or another licensed professional who’s giving you legal advice, make sure they have the right amount of experience. The best lawyers will take the time to ask questions, look up previous case settlements, and review federal and state laws before offering their opinion. If you’re on a budget, it’s not always necessary to pay top dollar for legal advice. However, you shouldn’t go cheap either because the cheapest lawyer may not have the knowledge and skills your business needs to succeed.

If you’re looking for legal information, online forums such as Avvo or the Legal Advice subreddit on Reddit can help. Just remember that these answers don’t constitute legal advice and should be used as a guide. Instead, schedule a consultation with an attorney.

2. Ask for Referrals

The best way for a rising law firm to increase business is by building a strong referral network. But where do you start? Clients won’t send their friends, family members and neighbors to total strangers, so it makes sense that a new lawyer should focus on cultivating a network of people that are likely to refer new business. Certainly, delivering quality service will help to generate some of this business, but it’s much easier to tap into the potential for referral business when clients know and trust your work.

Getting a referral can be as easy as asking your current clients for a recommendation. Of course, this can feel uncomfortable for many attorneys, but the right approach can make all the difference. The key is to frame the request in a way that feels natural and friendly, not pushy or salesy. For example, instead of simply asking a client for a referral, try saying something like “I’m grateful that you’re recommending me to your friends and colleagues. If I could ask for one more favor, would you mind passing my name along to any contacts you think might need representation?”

Keep in mind that there are some important ethical considerations when it comes to getting referrals. For example, it’s generally a good idea to avoid giving anything of value in exchange for a referral (such as sending a gift or a dinner). In addition, you should always ensure that your clients understand that you have an interest in their case and that any referrals will be handled with impartiality.

For this reason, it’s important for a lawyer to have a streamlined system for tracking referrals. This can be as simple as a spreadsheet or practice management software that is updated regularly, but it’s important to ensure that you don’t lose track of any referred clients.

Getting the best legal advice is not as hard as it seems. By choosing a qualified lawyer, taking the time to find out about the firm’s experience and reputation, and asking for referrals, you can be sure that your legal issues will be in the best possible hands.

3. Schedule a Consultation

In order to get the best legal advice you need to have a consultation with an attorney. Some attorneys offer free consultations while others charge for them. In either case, the first meeting with a lawyer will give you a good sense of whether they can help you resolve your legal question or not.

To find a qualified attorney, ask your friends and family for referrals. You can also check online attorney databases, such as LegalMatch, which allows you to select the type of legal work you need and then connects you with a screened attorney. In addition, you can find an attorney through a local bar association, a lawyer referral counselor, or other organizations that focus on helping individuals or businesses with their legal questions.

When you schedule a consultation, make sure to bring copies of all documents related to your legal matter. This will save time, as the attorney will not have to spend time making copies at the appointment. Additionally, it will ensure that you have the necessary documents with you to discuss your question in depth.

During the consultation, it is important to be clear on your legal issues and what you hope to accomplish with respect to them. This will allow the attorney to provide you with more targeted and useful information and advice.

While you may be tempted to bring a friend or loved one with you for support at your initial meeting, it is generally best to meet with the attorney alone. Bringing another person can distract you from the discussion, and it can compromise your confidentiality. Additionally, if your situation is of a criminal nature, the other person may be subpoenaed to testify as to what was said during the conversation.

Some lawyers also offer limited legal services, sometimes referred to as unbundled legal services, for people who are representing themselves. This may include a consultation and review of documents, but does not mean the attorney will be officially representing you in your case. The lawyer should clearly explain this to you before your appointment.

4. Take Action

If you are a business owner, seeking legal advice is critical. You need guidance to ensure you comply with federal laws, protect your investments, and minimize risks. If you aren’t prepared to pay for a lawyer, there are other resources available. Online legal forums such as Avvo and the Legal Advice subreddit on Reddit can provide answers to your questions from attorneys and knowledgeable lay people. Additionally, the Small Business Administration and SCORE can offer workshops and free or low-cost consultations for small businesses.

Before you start looking for legal advice, decide what your goals are. It’s important to understand that legal action is rarely a win-win situation. Even if you win in court, there’s a good chance that the other party will appeal the decision and you may need to go back to court to get what you want. Consider your situation, the strength of your case, the stubbornness of your opponent, and the costs to society if you don’t succeed before taking action.

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