Septic Problems & Symptoms

If you know what to look for, you will be able to spot telltale symptoms that your septic tank system is malfunctioning.

Pipe Gurgling Noises

The tank may be full, need pumping, or have other issues if you flush the toilet or turn on the water and hear gurgling coming from the pipes.

Problems Flushing


When using a plunger to flush the toilet doesn't work or is slow to flush, there may be a problem with the septic system. It may be that the tank is full, which can be quickly fixed by having the tank pumped. Additionally, it might be a sign of blocked pipes.

Sluggish Drains

If the pipes in your home are acting up, it can be the cause of slow draining in the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, or bathtub.

Water Backup

It's time to contact for assistance if water is backing up when you run the washing machine or, worse yet, sewage has backed up into the home. One of the worst signs of a failing septic system is sewage backup.

Stinky Smells

A keen sense of smell is all you need to detect problems with the septic tank. Continually smell rotten eggs during the summer? You're probably smelling sulfur poison, unless the Easter eggs are still there from last year's hunt. It's possible that raw sewage has escaped the septic tank if the smell gets worse when you move close to where the tank is buried.

More Lush Grass

It's not because rain fell there specifically that the grass in one section of the yard is turning greener. The grass is growing quicker or is greener than the rest of the property, which is one of the first indications that the septic leach field is malfunctioning. The lawn is benefiting from the more fertilizer at the roots, which suggests that there may be problems with the septic system.

Standing Water Spots

If you stroll through the yard and see puddles or areas of standing water close to the drain field, the septic system is seriously malfunctioning. As a result of the system's failure, foul water is accumulating at the drain field, which could be hazardous to people's health.

Causes of Septic Tank Issues

Problems with septic tanks are frequently brought on by objects entering the tank through the garbage disposal, kitchen sink, or toilet when they shouldn't. In addition to human waste, only septic-safe toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Only using gray water in the kitchen sink and avoiding using the garbage disposal frequently are recommended.

Potential Leach Field Issues

Prevent the typical septic tank concerns linked to issues near the leach field. Never place a vehicle or large pieces of equipment over a drain field. The extra weight will result in issues like cracking and buckling that could interfere with the tank's ability to function. There shouldn't be any obstructions in the space above the drain field. The pipe underneath may get compromised due to heavy objects or vehicles. Your leach field may be harmed if the pipe breaks due to compacting, and the repair work may be expensive. Sulfite and bio-mat buildup caused by excessive sludge near the drain field can be remedied by a septic professional before your system becomes clogged.Grease that is flushed down the toilet or into the sink will ultimately cool and harden. Hardened fats will harm the leach field and induce capping, which will shut off all oxygen to the system. Never grow any new trees close to the area used for septic tank drainage. The tank, drain field, or pipelines connected to the septic system will eventually become infiltrated by roots that are looking for moisture underneath. Once the roots have located the moisture source, they will quickly expand and do serious harm.

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Inspecting Your Septic Tank

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Keeping Your Septic System Healthy