A maintained septic tank is a silent and efficient workhorse. It handles all your household waste without announcing. It is one of those things you don’t think about very often. However, when your septic system starts to fail, many homeowners miss the warning signs. They only realize the severity of the problem when raw sewage backs up into their bathtub. You might think it is gross, but it literally is what happens. Trust us, ignoring these signs can lead to expensive problems. This is why we have put together this guide to help you catch the early warning signs of a failing system. We will also cover when it is time to stop troubleshooting and call septic professionals at American Drainfield Septic Service.
Why a Failing Septic System Is a Big Deal
The wastewater from your house needs to be filtered and disposed of underground at all times. When your septic system fails, so does this mechanism. This can lead to backups inside your home, unpleasant odors outside, a soggy backyard, and even contamination of groundwater.
Some people like to believe it is just an inconvenience. No, it is also a health hazard. Sewage backups can expose your family and pets to harmful bacteria. Leaks can damage your property over time. So, a septic system failure is a big deal and should not be ignored.
Signs of Septic System Failure
It is crucial to recognize the signs early. Whenever you notice something, act fast before small issues turn into replacements. Let’s dive into these warning signs now, shall we?
1. Slow Drains Here and There
Slow drainage throughout the house means the tank is full. It could also mean there is a clog somewhere in the system.
If every shower and toilet in your home is draining slowly, your septic system might be struggling. Try to notice if the problem is widespread.
- A single slow drain? It could just be a local clog.
- Happening in multiple areas? It is time to have your septic system inspected by a professional.
2. Bad Odors Around the House or Yard
One of the most obvious signs of septic trouble is a strong smell. That “rotten egg” or sewage odor can come from drains, toilets, or even your yard.
These smells mean waste gases are escaping. Now the waste gases could escape for multiple reasons. Some of them are:
- Your septic system is overflowing
- The tank needs pumping
- There is a leak in one of the pipes.
If you smell something off, don’t wait it out. A professional inspection can identify the cause and prevent further damage.
3. Soggy Spots in the Yard
Notice unusual squishy areas in your lawn near the drainfield? That is a classic warning sign of a failing septic system.
When the system stops filtering wastewater, it can leak into the soil. It creates puddles and unusually green patches of grass. It really messes up the aesthetics of a yard! Your lush green grass is nicer than ever, though? Unfortunately, it is actually a sign that untreated waste is feeding your lawn. That is a problem!
4. Gurgling Sounds in the Pipes
Strange noises from your drains or toilets might be your everyday occurrence. Hate to break it, but they signal that the air is trapped in the pipes of your septic system. The science behind this is pretty simple.
| The septic system is not processing the waste → air bubbles form → create that gurgling sound. |
No harm in getting your septic system checked by a professional if you are hearing this every day.
5. Sewage Backup in the House
This is, in all honesty, the worst-case scenario. The clearest sign your septic system is failing: Your sewage coming up through your sinks or toilets. It means your tank is overflowing and wastewater has nowhere to go. Backups are not only disgusting but also dangerous to your health.
Don’t try to fix this yourself. Immediately call American Drainfield Septic Service to handle the cleanup and repair safely.
6. Unusually Green Grass Near the Drainfield
We have covered this before. A little green grass is normal, but certain areas of your lawn being greener than the rest is a red flag!
Why does this even happen?
When the septic system is leaking, the excess waste acts like fertilizer. It is a sign your system needs attention.
7. Frequent Need for Pumping
Most septic tanks only need to be pumped every three to five years. Something is suspicious with your septic system if you are calling for pumping now and then. Maybe the drainfield is failing, or too much water is entering the tank. The reason does not matter that much. All that matters is that frequent pumping is a sign that something deeper needs to be fixed.
Conclusion
Your septic system is responsible for running the waste system smoothly. Slow drains and strange smells are all signs that something is not right. Catching these issues early will always do you good. Don’t wait for a full-blown backup. Schedule an inspection with professionals at American Drainfield Septic Service. So, you can protect your health and your wallet.
FAQs
What is the most common cause of septic system failure?
Poor maintenance, specifically infrequent pumping, is the most common cause of system failure. It allows solids to build up and eventually clog the drain field pipes.
What will ruin a septic system?
Putting non-biodegradable items (wipes, cigarette butts, or cat litter) down the toilet and pouring large volumes of oil can ruin the system.
Can a septic tank go 20 years without being pumped?
It is risky and not recommended. American Drainfield Septic Service advises pumping the tank every 3 to 5 years to prevent the sludge layer from accumulating.
Can too much water hurt a septic system?
Yes, too much water saturates the drain field. It prevents proper wastewater treatment and causes failure.
What eats sludge in a septic tank?
The sludge in a septic tank is broken down by bacteria, which naturally reside in the wastewater. They biologically digest the organic solids.