A Crappy Situation: 5 Septic Tank Problems You Won’t Want to Ignore

Over 21 million households across America aren’t connected to a public sewer. Instead, they have their own septic systems. There are many advantages to having a private septic system. For one, you control it and handle all the maintenance yourself. On the one hand, this means you only need to rely on yourself to manage the system. On the other hand, septic tank problems can be a real bear. Read on to learn more.

Septic Tank Problems

Before we get to the heavy, there is some good news. Most of the problems we will present to you can be solved using licensed, professional repair services. You may be wondering, why do septic tank failures even happen? In short, it’s typically either bad design or improper maintenance. And when it comes to managing your crap, an ounce of prevention will go a long way.

1. Clogs and Backups

These are feared among septic tank owners, for a good reason. The idea of sewage creeping its way back up through your drains and into your home, well, it’s what nightmares are made of. These can be pretty easily avoided. Like with city sewer, you don’t want to put anything into your drains that will expand. Things like grease or cooking oils, feminine hygiene products, and diapers are all major no’s. To avoid septic tank problems, keep your drains free and clear of things that are thick or expandable.

2. Overfull Tank

Inefficient water use can also lead to septic holding tank problems. When excess water accumulates in your septic tank, the solid wastes don’t break down before the water level rises. When this happens, the solids can then pass from the tank to distribution tubes. Those solids block the tubes and lead to backups through the system. You can minimize this risk by moderating your water usage. Invest in low flow toilets and other water-efficient appliances. Try not to do too much laundry in one day to keep the water level in check.

3. Invasive Tree Roots

As you might imagine, tree roots are attracted to the nutrient rich water running through your system. So if your septic system is leaking, nearby tree roots might capitalize on your misfortune. Professionals can help you determine if there are risky trees. You may need to have them removed if the septic system was poorly planned.

4. Home Improvement Damage

Adding embellishments to your yard is part of what makes being a homeowner fun. But if you don’t account for your septic system, you could dig right into a sewer drain line or your septic tank drain field. Yikes. Make sure you know where your system is before breaking ground.

5. Smells Like Sewage

Strong sewage smells in your home is one of the most obvious signs of septic tank problems. This happens when there is a clog in the ventilation. Just call your trusted plumber immediately. They can clear out your ventilation system in no time.

Septic Tank Failures Aren’t Inevitable.

As long as you regularly maintain your septic tank system, many of these septic tank problems can be avoided. Make a plan to have it cleaned every 3 to 5 years, moderate your water usage, keep unfriendly things out of your pipes, and you should be good to go. While you’re here, make sure to check out the rest of our content. Whatever your home improvement project or question, we’ve got you covered.