Four Trouble Signs For A Septic Tank
Knowing trouble signs is vitally important if your home runs off of a septic tank system. Otherwise, you could run into issues that lead to sewage backing up into your drain field, or worse, your home. The following are some key signs to keep an eye out for so that you can have your tank repaired before a small problem becomes a big disaster.
Sign #1: Soggy drain field
Increased plant growth and wet soil around the septic tank or in the drain field can signify a backup or a leak. If there is standing water in the field, then the problem has become relatively severe since drain fields are made to drain quickly. You will need to have the tank pumped empty, since the most common cause of this problem is a full tank. If the tank isn't full, it will need to be inspected for clogs or leaks in the system.
Sign #2: Odors
Sewage or rotten egg odors from near the septic tank area or in the home from the drains can both indicate an issue with the tank. Odors shouldn't come into the home at all unless the tank is backing up for some reason. This needs to be diagnosed and fixed as soon as possible so sewage doesn't also begin to back up into the home. The cause is typically a full tank or a clog somewhere in the system.
Sign #3: Poor drainage
Slow drains and toilet flushing also indicate tank issues, usually a full tank or a clog. Check all of the drains to see if they are moving slowly before calling in the septic repair contractor. If it's only one drain, then you likely just have a blocked plumbing pipe. If it's all of the drains and toilets, then the clog is in the tank or somewhere in the septic line.
Sign #4: Strange pipe noises
Gurgling noises from the pipes right after flushing or running water down the drain can be an early sign of trouble brewing. Gurgling occurs because the water is running through and around obstructions as it makes its way down the pipe. These obstructions are usually caused by too much solid waste inside the tank. Have the tank cleaned and get advice on how to better enable the tank to properly break down the solids.
For more help in diagnosing your septic tank issues, talk with a septic contractor in your area, such as Mr Bob.
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