Is your lawn suspiciously lush while the rest of the neighborhood struggles with the summer heat? Are there gurgling sounds emanating from your drains, or worse, a persistent, unpleasant odor wafting through your yard? These could be telltale signs of a full septic tank, a situation that demands immediate attention. Ignoring these warnings can lead to costly repairs, environmental contamination, and a significant disruption to your daily life. Fortunately, there are several ways to determine if your septic tank is nearing its capacity without resorting to immediately calling in professionals. While a professional inspection is always recommended, these preliminary checks can give you a good indication of your system’s status and help you decide if it’s time to schedule a pump-out. In the following sections, we’ll explore practical methods you can use to assess your septic tank’s fullness, empowering you to take proactive steps and maintain a healthy and efficient wastewater system.
Firstly, one of the most reliable methods involves a visual inspection of the sludge and scum layers within the tank. To do this, you’ll need to locate your septic tank’s access lid, which may be buried under a layer of soil or concealed beneath a small concrete or plastic cover. Once located, carefully remove the lid and use a long stick or a purpose-built sludge judge to probe the tank’s contents. Furthermore, pay close attention to the distance between the bottom of the scum layer (the floating layer of fats and grease) and the top of the sludge layer (the settled solids at the bottom). Consequently, if this distance is less than 12 inches, or if the combined thickness of the sludge and scum layers is within a few feet of the outlet pipe, your tank is likely full and requires pumping. Additionally, observe the liquid level. If the wastewater level is high and close to the outlet pipe, this also signifies a full tank. However, remember that opening your septic tank exposes you to potentially harmful bacteria and gases, so always exercise caution and consider wearing protective gear like gloves and a mask.
Secondly, beyond the visual inspection, there are other less intrusive methods to assess your septic system. For example, observe the drainage in your house. Slow-draining sinks, tubs, and toilets are often early indicators of a full or malfunctioning septic tank. Similarly, sewage backups in your lowest drains are a sure sign of a serious problem and warrant immediate professional attention. Moreover, pay attention to your yard. Standing water or overly lush patches of grass near your drain field, especially after rainfall, can indicate a saturated drain field unable to absorb any more effluent. In addition, foul odors around your septic tank or drain field are another red flag. Finally, consider the age and size of your septic tank and the number of people in your household. Larger households naturally generate more wastewater. Therefore, if your tank hasn’t been pumped in several years, it’s wise to schedule an inspection. By combining these observations with a periodic visual inspection, you can effectively monitor your septic system and prevent costly and unpleasant surprises.
Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Attention
Keeping an eye on your septic system is crucial for preventing costly repairs and ensuring the health and safety of your household and the environment. A neglected septic tank can lead to a range of unpleasant problems, from foul odors and slow drains to sewage backups and contaminated groundwater. Thankfully, there are several telltale signs that your septic tank needs some TLC. Recognizing these early indicators can save you a lot of headache and expense down the road.
Slow Drains Throughout Your Home
One of the most common and earliest signs of a full or malfunctioning septic tank is sluggish drainage. If you notice that water is draining slowly from sinks, showers, tubs, and toilets, it’s a red flag that something isn’t right. While a single slow drain might indicate a localized clog, multiple slow drains throughout your house often point to a problem with the septic system. The tank might be nearing capacity, or the drain field (also known as the leach field or absorption field) could be saturated, preventing wastewater from properly percolating into the soil. Don’t ignore this symptom! It’s best to investigate further to prevent a more serious issue.
Think of your septic system like a highway system. If traffic slows down in one spot, there might be a minor accident. But if traffic is slow everywhere, it’s likely a larger issue impacting the whole system. Similarly, slow drains throughout your home suggest a systemic problem, often related to the septic tank. The accumulating wastewater isn’t able to efficiently exit the house, leading to the backups you’re experiencing. Addressing this early can prevent a complete blockage and the potential for sewage backup into your home.
If you’re experiencing slow drains, try to remember if it started gradually or suddenly. A gradual slowdown often indicates a filling tank, while a sudden change could signify a blockage in the main septic line. Also, take note of whether the slow drains are accompanied by gurgling sounds in the plumbing. Gurgling is another classic indicator of septic system issues, often caused by trapped air trying to escape through the drains.
Before calling a professional, try to rule out simple plumbing problems like hair clogs. If plunging or snaking the drains doesn’t resolve the issue, and the slow drainage persists across multiple fixtures, it’s highly likely that your septic system requires attention. A septic professional can inspect your system, determine the root cause, and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s pumping the tank, repairing a damaged component, or addressing issues with the drain field.
Standing Water or Sewage Backup
This is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If you see standing water around your septic tank or drain field, or if sewage backs up into your home through drains or toilets, it’s a clear sign of a system failure. This situation can be extremely unsanitary and pose health risks. Contact a septic professional immediately to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Foul Odors
A strong, unpleasant odor of sewage near your septic tank, drain field, or even inside your home is a clear sign of a problem. This could indicate a full tank, a leak in the system, or a blockage. Don’t try to mask the smell; investigate the source and call a professional if needed.
Lush, Green Grass Over the Drain Field
While a healthy lawn is usually a good thing, unusually lush and green grass directly over your drain field, even during dry periods, can be a sign that wastewater is surfacing and fertilizing the area. This indicates a problem with the drain field’s ability to properly absorb the effluent.
Pooling Water Around the Septic Tank or Drain Field
If you notice standing water near your septic system, it could indicate a blockage or a leak. This should be investigated promptly.
Gurgling Sounds in Your Plumbing
Gurgling sounds in your drains, especially when flushing toilets or running water in sinks, can be a sign of trapped air in the plumbing system, often caused by a full or malfunctioning septic tank.
Frequent Septic Tank Pumping
If you find yourself needing to pump your septic tank more often than usual, it could indicate a problem with the system, such as a leak or a failing drain field.
Inspecting Your Septic Tank: Key Indicators
| Indicator | Description | Potential Problem |
|---|---|---|
| Scum Layer Thickness | The top layer of floating solids. | If too thick, it can block the outlet and cause backups. |
| Sludge Layer Depth | The bottom layer of settled solids. | If too deep, the tank’s capacity is reduced, requiring more frequent pumping. |
| Total Liquid Depth | The overall depth of the liquid in the tank. | High levels indicate a full tank or a blockage. |
Recognizing a Full Septic Tank: Key Indicators
Knowing the signs of a full septic tank can save you from a messy and costly disaster. Regularly checking for these indicators can help you stay ahead of potential problems and schedule necessary pumping before things get out of hand. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to sewage backups in your home, environmental contamination, and expensive repairs. So, let’s delve into the key things to watch out for.
Slow Drains
One of the earliest and most common signs of a full septic tank is sluggish drainage throughout your house. Notice if your sinks, showers, tubs, and toilets are draining slower than usual. If multiple fixtures are affected, it’s a strong indication of a problem with your septic system, possibly a full tank. While a single slow drain could indicate a localized clog, widespread slow drainage usually points to a bigger issue downstream.
Sewage Backup
This is a serious red flag and a definite sign of a major septic system problem, often a full tank. Sewage backing up into your toilets, showers, or sinks is a clear indicator that something is amiss. The unpleasant odor accompanying this backup is another unmistakable sign. If you experience sewage backups, it’s crucial to contact a septic professional immediately. This situation requires prompt attention to prevent further damage and health hazards. Don’t attempt to flush toilets or run water down drains as this could exacerbate the problem. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for and what it might mean:
| Location of Backup | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Lowest Drains (e.g., basement floor drain) | Likely a septic tank issue, possibly full or a blockage in the outlet pipe. |
| Toilets | Could be a septic tank issue, especially if accompanied by gurgling sounds. Could also be a blockage in the toilet’s drain line. |
| Showers/Tubs | Likely a septic tank issue if other drains are also slow. |
Beyond these primary locations, backups can also manifest in other areas. For instance, if your washing machine drains into the septic system, you might notice water backing up into the washing machine during a cycle. Similarly, a backed-up septic system can cause issues with dishwashers. Keep an eye out for standing water or unusual gurgling sounds during dishwasher operation. These, combined with other signs like slow drains, strengthen the case for a full septic tank.
The frequency of backups is also a critical indicator. Occasional, minor backups might suggest a developing problem, while frequent and significant backups indicate a more urgent situation, potentially requiring immediate pumping. Understanding the location and frequency of backups can help you determine the severity of the problem and the appropriate course of action.
Pooling Water
Standing water or exceptionally soggy areas in your yard, especially near the septic tank and drain field, can be a sign of a full tank. This occurs when wastewater can no longer properly drain into the soil. The excess liquid begins to pool on the surface. The presence of unusually lush, green grass in these areas can also be a subtle indicator of a problem, as the wastewater can act as fertilizer. However, be aware that pooling water can also be caused by other factors like heavy rainfall. If the pooling persists during dry periods, it’s more likely related to your septic system.
Unpleasant Odors
A strong, foul odor emanating from your drains, yard, or near the septic tank is a clear sign that something is wrong. This pungent smell, often described as rotten eggs, is caused by the buildup of hydrogen sulfide gas, a byproduct of decomposing sewage. If you detect this distinct odor, it’s highly likely your septic tank is nearing capacity or already full. Ignoring this smell is not advisable, as it can not only be unpleasant but also indicate a potential health hazard.
Visual Inspection: What to Look For
One of the easiest initial checks you can perform is a simple visual inspection around your septic system. This can often give you early clues that something might be amiss, even before you experience more serious problems. This doesn’t require any special tools and can be done regularly as part of your property maintenance routine.
Lush, Green Grass Over the Drainfield
Noticeably healthier, greener grass directly over your drainfield, compared to the surrounding lawn, can be an early indicator of a septic system nearing capacity. The excess wastewater nourishes the grass, making it grow more quickly and vibrantly. While a healthy lawn is generally desirable, this localized lushness over the drainfield specifically can be a red flag.
Standing Water or Soggy Areas
Inspect the area around your septic tank and drainfield for any standing water or unusually soggy patches. This is a strong sign that wastewater isn’t draining properly and could indicate a full or failing septic system. Pay particular attention after periods of rain. If these wet areas persist even when the surrounding ground has dried, it’s a definite cause for concern. The standing water might even have a foul odor, further strengthening the suspicion of a septic issue.
Plumbing Backups and Slow Drains
Perhaps the most common and troublesome sign of a full septic tank is experiencing slow drains or sewage backups inside your home. If multiple sinks, toilets, or showers are draining slowly, or if you notice gurgling sounds coming from your plumbing fixtures, this suggests a blockage somewhere in your system. If sewage backs up into your tubs, showers, or sinks, this is a serious indication of a problem, likely a full septic tank. This situation requires immediate attention from a qualified septic professional. Don’t attempt to use chemical drain cleaners, as these can harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank and potentially worsen the problem. Keep a close eye on all drains in your home, as even seemingly minor slowdowns can be early warnings of a bigger issue brewing. Early detection can prevent a messy and costly overflow situation. While a single slow drain might be due to a localized clog, multiple slow drains, especially if accompanied by gurgling sounds, point towards a more systemic problem, likely originating in the septic system. In addition to slow drains, pay attention to your toilets. If they flush slowly or if you hear gurgling after flushing, it’s another telltale sign. If you notice sewage backing up into your toilets, this is a serious problem and requires immediate professional intervention. This is not only unpleasant but also a health hazard. The longer you wait to address this, the worse the damage – and the cleanup – will be. Therefore, it’s crucial to be vigilant and address even minor drainage issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into major problems.
Sewage Backup Signs and What to Do
| Sign | Action |
|---|---|
| Slow drains in multiple fixtures | Monitor the situation, and if it persists, contact a septic professional. |
| Gurgling sounds from plumbing fixtures | Contact a septic professional. |
| Sewage backup in tubs, showers, or sinks | Immediately contact a septic professional. Avoid using the affected fixtures. |
| Sewage backup in toilets | Immediately contact a septic professional. Avoid using the affected toilets. |
Using a Septic Tank Measuring Stick: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how full your septic tank is can prevent costly backups and ensure your system runs smoothly. One of the most straightforward methods involves using a septic tank measuring stick. While it might seem a bit old-school, it’s a reliable way to get a good understanding of your tank’s fill level.
Locating Your Septic Tank
Before you can measure anything, you’ll need to find your septic tank. If you have a diagram of your property showing its location, that’s the easiest way. If not, the tank is usually buried underground somewhere between your house and the drain field (also known as the leach field). Sometimes, a slight mound or greener grass might indicate the tank’s location. Probing the ground with a long metal rod can also help pinpoint the tank’s boundaries. Once you’ve found the general area, you’ll need to locate the access port or manhole cover.
Preparing the Measuring Stick
You can purchase a purpose-built septic tank measuring stick, or you can improvise with a long, sturdy piece of material like PVC pipe or a wooden dowel. Make sure it’s long enough to reach the bottom of your tank, with some extra length to spare. If you’re using a DIY stick, mark it clearly at every foot or half-foot for easy measurement. It’s also wise to wear gloves for this process, as you’ll be dealing with wastewater.
Taking the Measurement
Carefully remove the septic tank lid. Be prepared for some unpleasant odors. Slowly lower your measuring stick into the tank until it reaches the bottom. You’ll feel it hit the sludge layer at the bottom. Once it hits, slowly withdraw the stick. The wet portion of the stick will indicate the liquid level within your tank.
Interpreting the Results
Now for the crucial part: figuring out what your readings mean. The key here is to pay attention to the sludge and scum layers. The sludge is the solid waste that settles at the bottom of your tank, while the scum is the lighter, floating layer of grease and oils. With your measuring stick, you’ll want to measure the distance from the bottom of the stick to the bottom of the scum layer, the distance from the bottom of the stick to the top of the sludge layer, and the total liquid depth (from the bottom of the stick to the liquid mark). The space between the scum and sludge layers is the clear liquid layer. Ideally, this clear layer should be the largest portion. A thick sludge layer indicates your tank may need pumping. A general rule of thumb is if the bottom of the scum layer, or the top of the sludge layer, is within a foot or less of the outlet pipe (usually located near the top of the tank), it’s a good indication you’re due for a pumping. In a two-compartment tank, measure both sides. The first compartment generally retains the most solid waste and therefore requires more frequent attention.
Here’s a quick reference to help you visualize the measurements:
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| Bottom of stick to bottom of scum layer | Total depth including scum |
| Bottom of stick to top of sludge layer | Liquid depth + Sludge depth |
| Liquid Depth | Distance between the top of the sludge and the bottom of the scum |
Keeping a log of your measurements over time is highly beneficial. This will give you a baseline and help you notice any significant changes which might indicate a problem. Remember, having your septic tank pumped regularly is the best preventative maintenance you can do to ensure its long lifespan and avoid expensive repairs down the line. If you’re unsure about any of the steps or the interpretation of your measurements, contacting a qualified septic professional is always recommended.
Inspecting Your Drain Field: Surface Clues and Potential Problems
Your septic drain field, also known as a leach field or absorption field, plays a vital role in the wastewater treatment process. It’s where the clarified liquid from your septic tank is slowly released into the ground. A failing drain field can lead to a backup in your home’s plumbing and create a serious health hazard. Regularly inspecting your drain field can help you catch problems early and prevent costly repairs. Here’s what to look for:
Surface Clues
Several telltale signs on the surface of your drain field can indicate a problem. Keep an eye out for these clues:
- Standing Water or Soggy Areas: One of the most obvious signs of a failing drain field is standing water or persistent soggy patches over the area. This indicates that the liquid isn’t properly absorbing into the soil.
- Unusually Lush Vegetation: While a healthy lawn is great, excessively green and lush vegetation directly over your drain field can indicate a problem. The excess nutrients in wastewater can act as fertilizer, causing accelerated growth in that specific area compared to the surrounding lawn.
- Unpleasant Odors: A strong, sewage-like smell emanating from your drain field is a clear sign of trouble. This often means that wastewater is reaching the surface.
- Slow Drains Inside Your Home: While slow drains can be caused by various plumbing issues, they can also be a symptom of a failing drain field. If multiple drains in your house are slow, and you’ve ruled out other plumbing problems, your septic system could be the culprit.
Potential Problems
Several factors can contribute to drain field problems. Understanding these can help you prevent issues and address them effectively.
Compaction
Driving or parking heavy equipment over your drain field can compact the soil, reducing its ability to absorb liquid. This compaction restricts the wastewater flow and can lead to system failure.
Root Intrusion
Tree and shrub roots are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients in your drain field. Over time, these roots can penetrate and clog the pipes, disrupting the flow of wastewater.
Hydraulic Overload
Using excessive amounts of water in your home can overwhelm your septic system, including the drain field. This overload floods the field, preventing it from properly treating and absorbing the wastewater.
Biomat Accumulation
A biomat is a natural layer of bacteria that forms in the soil around the drain field pipes. While a healthy biomat aids in wastewater treatment, an excessively thick biomat can restrict flow and cause problems. Regular septic tank pumping helps prevent excessive biomat buildup.
Age and Deterioration
Like any system, drain fields have a limited lifespan. Over time, the pipes can crack or deteriorate, leading to leaks and failures. The expected lifespan can vary significantly based on materials, usage, and maintenance, but eventually, replacement will be necessary.
Improper Installation
A poorly installed drain field is more susceptible to problems. Incorrectly sized or positioned systems can fail to effectively treat wastewater, leading to premature failure.
High Water Table
If the water table is naturally high in your area, it can interfere with the drain field’s ability to disperse wastewater into the soil. This can lead to backups and system failure.
Taking Action
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact a qualified septic professional immediately. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate course of action, which could range from simple repairs to a complete drain field replacement.
Understanding Your Drain Field’s Location
Knowing the precise location of your drain field is crucial for its proper care and maintenance. This knowledge prevents accidental damage from activities like landscaping or construction. You should have a diagram of your septic system, including the drain field location, from when your home was built or the system was installed. If you don’t have this information, a septic professional can locate it for you.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Standing water | Compacted soil, biomat buildup, hydraulic overload | Aerate the soil, have the tank pumped, reduce water usage |
| Slow drains | Clogged pipes, failing drain field | Have the pipes cleaned, repair or replace the drain field |
| Bad odors | Wastewater surfacing, failing drain field | Repair or replace the drain field |
Maintaining Your Drain Field
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your drain field. Regularly pumping your septic tank, avoiding driving or parking over the area, and being mindful of water usage are key steps to keeping your drain field healthy and functioning correctly. Consider having your septic system inspected by a professional every few years to catch potential problems early. Remember, a well-maintained septic system is crucial for protecting both your property and the environment.
When to Call a Professional Septic Service
Knowing when to call in the septic pros can save you from a messy, and expensive, headache. While regular maintenance is key, sometimes situations arise that require expert intervention. Here’s a breakdown of when to pick up the phone and call a septic service professional:
Slow Drains Throughout Your Home
If you notice that multiple drains in your house are draining slowly, it could be an early sign of a full septic tank. Don’t reach for the chemical drain cleaner just yet! This could actually harm your septic system. A slow drain might just be a clog, but if it’s happening everywhere, it’s time to suspect the septic system.
Standing Water or Sewage Backups
This is a major red flag. If you see standing water near your septic tank or, even worse, sewage backing up into your toilets, showers, or sinks, call a professional immediately. This indicates a serious problem that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage and health hazards.
Foul Odors Around Your Septic System
A properly functioning septic system shouldn’t produce noticeable odors. If you start smelling sewage or rotten eggs around your drain field or septic tank, it’s a strong indicator that something’s amiss. This could be a sign of a full tank or a failing drain field.
Lush, Unusually Green Grass Over the Drain Field
While a healthy lawn is great, excessively green, fast-growing grass directly over your drain field can be a sign of a problem. This can indicate that wastewater is surfacing, which means your drain field isn’t effectively distributing the effluent. A professional can diagnose the cause and recommend solutions.
Pooling Water Around the Drain Field
Similar to unusually green grass, standing water over the drain field is a sign of trouble. This could mean the drain field is saturated and unable to absorb any more liquid, often due to a full septic tank or damaged drain field components. This can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
Gurgling Sounds in Your Plumbing
Strange gurgling sounds coming from your drains, especially when flushing toilets or running water, can indicate a blockage or a full septic tank. These sounds are caused by trapped air struggling to escape through the system. While a simple clog might be the culprit, if it persists, a septic inspection is warranted.
Sewage Alarm Activation
Some septic systems are equipped with alarms that signal when there’s a problem, such as a high liquid level in the tank. If your alarm goes off, don’t ignore it! This is a clear sign to call a septic service professional right away.
Regular Maintenance Neglect
Even without any apparent problems, neglecting regular maintenance can lead to major septic issues down the line. It’s recommended to have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years, depending on usage and tank size. Regular inspections by a professional can also catch minor problems before they turn into major expenses.
Age of Your Septic System
Understanding Septic System Lifespan and Common Issues Related to Age
Septic systems, even with meticulous care, aren’t immortal. They have a lifespan, typically ranging from 20 to 40 years, influenced by factors like tank material (concrete, fiberglass, or plastic), soil conditions, usage, and maintenance practices. As your system ages, the risk of component failure increases. For instance, the baffles that separate solids from liquids can corrode or break, leading to solids escaping into the drain field and causing clogs. The tank itself can crack or develop leaks, allowing groundwater to infiltrate or sewage to seep out, contaminating the surrounding environment. Drain field pipes can also deteriorate and become blocked by biomat, a natural byproduct of the wastewater treatment process. Even the soil itself in the drain field can become compacted over time, reducing its ability to absorb effluent.
If your system is nearing or exceeding its expected lifespan, consider having it inspected by a professional even if you haven’t noticed any overt problems. A thorough inspection can reveal hidden issues and provide valuable insights into the remaining life expectancy of your system. Early detection allows you to plan for repairs or replacement proactively, avoiding costly emergencies and potential environmental damage. Moreover, if you’re planning to sell your home and your septic system is older, a pre-emptive inspection can provide peace of mind to potential buyers and facilitate a smoother transaction. Knowing the age of your system and its expected lifespan is crucial information for responsible septic system ownership.
| Problem | Possible Cause | When to Call a Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Drains | Clog or full septic tank | If multiple drains are slow |
| Sewage Backup | Full tank or blocked drain field | Immediately! |
| Foul Odors | Full tank or failing system | As soon as possible |
How to Check if Your Septic Tank is Full
Knowing when your septic tank needs pumping is crucial for maintaining a healthy and functional system. Ignoring a full tank can lead to costly repairs, unpleasant backups, and environmental contamination. While regular inspections by a qualified professional are recommended, there are several signs you can look for yourself to determine if your septic tank is nearing capacity.
One common indicator is slow drains throughout your house. If water is draining sluggishly from sinks, showers, and toilets, it could be a sign that your septic tank is full and restricting the flow of wastewater. Another warning sign is standing water or sewage backups in your yard, especially around the drain field area. A foul odor emanating from drains or the septic tank area is also a strong indication of a potential problem and possible fullness.
A more direct method involves visually inspecting the tank itself. While this requires opening the access port, it allows you to see the level of solids and liquids inside. If the scum layer, a floating layer of solids, or the sludge layer, a layer of settled solids at the bottom, are close to the outlet pipe, your tank is likely full and requires pumping. However, it’s important to exercise caution when opening the access port due to the presence of hazardous gases. It’s recommended to hire a professional to perform this inspection if you’re unsure or uncomfortable.
People Also Ask About Pumpandcleanseptic How to Check Septic Tank is Full
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
The frequency of septic tank pumping depends on several factors, including the tank size, household size, and water usage. As a general rule, most septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years. However, households with larger families or heavier water usage may require more frequent pumping.
What are the signs of a failing septic system?
Slow Drains
One of the earliest signs of a failing septic system is slow drains throughout the house. If water takes longer than usual to drain from sinks, showers, and toilets, it could indicate a blockage or a full septic tank.
Sewage Backups
Sewage backups are a serious indication of a failing septic system. If you notice sewage backing up into your toilets, sinks, or bathtub, it’s crucial to contact a septic professional immediately.
Standing Water
Standing water or overly saturated soil around the drain field can be a sign of a failing septic system. The drain field is responsible for distributing treated wastewater into the soil. If it’s not functioning correctly, wastewater can pool on the surface.
Foul Odors
A strong, unpleasant odor coming from your drains, yard, or the septic tank area is another sign of a failing septic system. This odor is caused by the buildup of gases and sewage.
What happens if you don’t pump your septic tank?
Failing to pump your septic tank can lead to several unpleasant and costly consequences. A full tank can cause sewage backups into your home, leading to unsanitary conditions and potential health hazards. It can also damage the drain field, which is a costly component of your septic system to repair or replace. Furthermore, untreated sewage can contaminate groundwater and surface water, posing environmental risks.
Can I check the septic tank level myself?
While it’s possible to check the septic tank level yourself by opening the access port, it’s recommended to hire a professional. Opening the access port exposes you to potentially harmful gases, and incorrect assessment of the tank’s contents can lead to inaccurate conclusions. A septic professional has the right tools and experience to safely and accurately assess the condition of your tank.