A sewage backup is a terrible and dangerous issue that can be avoided by following a regular pumping schedule and avoiding flushing items that aren’t septic-safe. Keep an ear out for gurgling sounds when using drains and toilets, which is another sign that it’s time to get your septic tank pumped.
Slow Drains
Slow drains indicate that you need to get your septic system pumped. Solid waste clogs the tank, and the septic pumping system causes wastewater to back into your home.
This dangerous situation should be dealt with as soon as possible. If you suspect your septic system is complete, contact a plumber immediately to schedule an inspection.
A gurgling sound is another clear sign that your septic system is nearing capacity. This noise sounds more like bubbling than your plumbing pipes’ knocking or rattling when clogged. Various things, including baby wipes, kitty litter, coffee grounds, and dental floss, can cause it. These items don’t break down properly in the sewer system and can bind with other debris to create blockages.
Sewage Backup
A sewage backup is a big deal and a sign that your septic system needs septic pump-outs. It can lead to thousands of dollars in damage to your home, walls, floors, and belongings.
It can also be a health risk for your family and pets and is incredibly unpleasant. Call a professional immediately if you notice black and smelly wastewater in your sinks, toilets, or bathtubs.
If you rule out a clog, sewage may come from your septic tank’s outlet baffle or effluent filter. These should be cleaned regularly. If you need more time, have a professional inspect your septic tank. They can determine the cause of the clog and recommend the best course of action. The clog may result from too many household chemicals or non-organic materials entering the septic system.
Foul Odors
If you notice a foul, rotten-egg odor coming from your household drains or the area of your yard where the septic tank and leach field are located, it’s a clear sign that your tank is full. This stench is due to septic system gases released as the tank’s microorganisms digest the waste.
If the odor is powerful, your septic system may have a clog in its ventilation line. This could result in sewage backing up into your home.
A septic system that isn’t pumped regularly can cause toxic substances to leak into local water sources and soil systems. This can lead to health problems for the community and your family. A professional can help prevent these issues by keeping you on a routine pumping schedule.
Pooling Water
If you notice that your drains aren’t as efficient as usual, it may mean your septic tank is full. If the tank can’t accommodate sewage waste, solids will get trapped inside your home’s drains and cause them to slow down or stop working altogether. This symptom and other signs like foul smells and sewage backup indicate that you need your septic tank pumped.
Another sign that your septic system needs pumping is pools of water around household drains, the septic tank, or the area above the tank. This water contains raw sewage and can be dangerous for your family. It also indicates that the septic tank’s outlet baffle or effluent filter is clogged. These items need to be cleaned regularly to avoid clogs.
Unhealthy Well Water
When septic systems get full, bacteria and nitrates can leach into the soil and well water. This can lead to health problems for household members, especially in the stomach and respiratory tracts.
Unhealthy well water may look cloudy and contain high sediment levels, clay, silt, or air bubbles. It can also have a reddish, green, or blue tinge that indicates iron or manganese contamination.
Aside from septic tank problems, other signs that it’s time to have your well and septic system tested include a sudden change in the appearance and taste of your water, household members getting ill with stomach issues or breathing problems, and excessive grass growth on or near your septic system and drain field. If you experience these symptoms, have your septic tank pumped immediately.
