Specific septic problem signs are easy to pinpoint. Some signs are harder to spot than others. We will attempt to help you understand the mechanics of a septic system and the septic problem signs that can arise when preventive maintenance is not observed. Most septic problem signs are usually the result of homeowners not following a few simple rules concerning cesspits, septic tanks and their drain fields. More than 25% of American homeowners utilize septic tanks and cesspools as their primary waste water disposal system. Majority of homeowners may not realize they have a septic system until it’s too late and even more so, most homeowners are unaware of the requirements necessary to safely maintain a septic system efficiently.
Lack of maintenance can lead to clogs and septic tank problems. Undigested solid waste can build up forming a bio mat clogging the drain field causing septic system failure.
The mechanics of a septic system are fairly simple in design. The typical septic tank consists of one tank that is partitioned into two sections. The first tank holds the solid waste generated by the home. Bacteria break down the solid waste into effluent before the effluent travels to the second stage of the tank where further digestion takes place. The digested effluent is gravity fed, flowing out into the drain field. The digested waste water leaches into the ground where further filtering takes place before returning to the water table.
There are several possible septic tank problems a home owner should be on the lookout for. Below we have listed a few of the more common septic tank problems that can occur when a system is poorly maintained.
1) Leaking toilets can saturate a septic tank and drain field in a short period of time causing tanks to fill up, create wet spots in the yard and system failure.
2) Septic smells and odors coming from toilets, vent pipes and over the drain field are usually signs that the system is in need of pumping.
3) Strong odors and smells emitting from water faucets are a sure sign your drinking water is contaminated with fecal matter. DO NOT DRINK THE WATER. Contact your local sewer authority immediately and have your septic system checked for leaks. The contamination could also be cause by a neighbor with a septic tank problem.
4) Lush green grass identifying the location of the drain field is an indication the system is in the early stage of failure.
5) Soggy wet spots over the drain field is a sure sign you are having septic tank problems the may require a beneficial bacterial shock treatment or repair of the system.
Simple routine monthly septic treatments are a safe way to maintain the integrity of your septic system adding years of trouble free service from your septic system. Never attempt to repair a septic system yourself. Call a licensed plumber and check references.