Signs of a Septic System Failure

Introduction 

A septic system is an essential part of keeping the building fully functional. A properly maintained, operated, and installed septic tank can give you excellent output. You must be aware of the signs of septic system failure to prevent that beforehand. Go through the article to know more about the signs of the failure of the septic system and when to look out for septic system service in Anacortes, WA. 

What are the most common causes of septic system failure?

Septic tank’s contribution to households and the community is invaluable. The primary function of a septic tank is to hold the residential wastewater in an underground chamber for basic treatment. These septic tanks are usually made of fiberglass, concrete, and plastic and operate as domestic sewage units. Septic tank malfunctioning can spill underground and move upward in the ground. 

• Slow Drainage

Failure of septic tanks can cause slow drains. For instance, if the septic tank is full, it will not actively collect the wastewater, which means you may notice a clogged pipe full of sewage. Slow drains are the precursor to full septic system failure. During a Septic Inspection in Whidbey Island, WA, an expert can easily gauge the situation and prevent your tank from failing completely. 

• Bad Odors

Another tell-tale sign of septic system failure is the bad odors near the plumbing appliances and drain field. If you detect foul or strong odors while you walk outside or step onto the lawn, then it is a sign you need to call a professional for septic service to resolve the issues caused due to malfunctioning of the septic tank. 

• Gurgling Sounds

You must have noticed strange sounds while using the plumbing appliances. For instance, if you flush the toilet and hear any gurgling sound, then immediately, you must reach out to a professional. Gurgling noise points to internal septic system issues or clogs, which requires immediate septic system servicing. 

• Blooms of Algae in nearby water

If you are staying near a water source like a pond or lake, watch out for algal blooms. The algae growth can signify septic tank failure, but it can be tricky to diagnose as many people assume it to be normal. Algal blooms happen when a large proportion of algae form in the pool of water. It looks unnatural and looks like the water has been contaminated with algae. 

• Unusual bright green grass above the drain field

Sewage can have properties similar to manure containing potassium, nitrogen phosphorous, and micronutrients that plants require to grow. Therefore, if you notice any unusual green grass near the wastewater drain field, it will likely leak into the lawn. Since the grass is naturally green, spotting the signs can be a little bit tricky at times. 

How to prevent a septic system failure? 

Septic tanks are essential for the wastewater treatment system, which breaks down waste from the plumbing fixtures. Waste is held in a large tank and treated through technological and natural methods. Once the liquid and solid waste is separated, they flow from the tank to the drain field. Here are some of the tips through which you can prevent septic system failure:

• Keep up with the maintenance

Maintenance is one of the most necessary things to ensure the system runs smoothly. Schedule annual inspections with the contractor that can give you the appropriate information on the level of scum and effluent and the sludge layers in the septic tank. Septic tank inspection will give you an idea about how often you should pump. 

• Do not flush down any foreign objects.

One of the great ways to prevent your septic tank from damage is not to flush down any foreign objects. But in commercial spaces, you will have less control over what people usually flush down the toilet. It is a bit more difficult to regulate the septic tank in commercial spaces than the residential ones, it is crucial to establish the rule that only human waste and toilet paper must go down the toilet. Hair, grease, wipes, sanitary napkins, and many more can clog your septic tank. If you want to avoid all these costly and time-consuming complications, keep your eye on what you are flushing down the toilet.

• Do not plant trees near the drain field.

Tree roots have the potential to knock the septic tank out of place, which can lead to blockage and the overflow of the septic tank. It is quite impossible to predict the direction of root growth; you can avoid it by planting trees and shrubs far away from the drain pipes and the fields. 

• Be conservative with water usage.

If too much water enters the tank at one time, it can result in wastewater backing into the drains. Consider all these steps to prevent hydraulic overloading:

1. Ensure the plumbing fixtures are working efficiently, with no leaks or drips. 
2. Replace the fixtures with water-saving faucets and toilets.
3. Try to space out all the household chores, such as laundry, dishwashing, and showers, if they are provided in your building. 

Conclusion 

Dirty Deeds Septic services provide 24/7 service to their clients. We believe in delivering quality septic tank pumping to residential customers in Anacortes, WA. We can help you with septic system maintenance, so do not hesitate to reach out if you have an emergency. We are also providing service in Whidbey Island, WA, and nearby areas. Contact us today to book your appointment.