A properly maintained septic system is essential for protecting your home, health, and environment. Yet many homeowners don’t realize there’s a problem until their toilets start backing up, or there’s an unpleasant odor around the house. For homeowners managing their Rio Grande Septic Systems, understanding common issues that plague septic systems is imperative. Without proper attention, these issues can become catastrophic and lead to system breakdown.
This guide details the most common septic system issues and how to avoid or fix them. By understanding what harms your septic system and how to prevent further damage, you can save money, time, avoid septic emergencies, and keep your septic system working at optimal efficiency for years.
Common Septic Tank Problems & Their Solutions
Slow Drains
One of the most frequent problems that homeowners deal with is slow-draining water. Slow drains in a septic system might be caused by a blockage in the septic tank itself, the main drainpipe, or one of the pipes leading to it. Sometimes you can identify which drain is blocked by listening for gurgling sounds. You might be dealing with a more serious plumbing issue if the entire house is draining slowly. To unclog your pipes, it is best to call a qualified septic pumping service and stop throwing non-biodegradable trash down the drains to prevent future problems.
Tree Roots Invading Septic Tanks
Plant roots can intrude into your septic tank if there are large trees on your property or close to your tank. They either break through the tank walls or pierce the pipes that go from your home; this can do a great deal of damage to your system. You should get a professional evaluate your property and identify any trees that could breach your tank with their roots if you already have an established garden. Otherwise, choose trees with shallow or less aggressive roots if you’re starting a new garden, and make sure there’s plenty of space between the trees and your septic.
Sewage Backing Into Your Home
Sewage back-up is another common but serious septic system problem. You’ll need to have your septic tank inspected by a professional if you start to see sewage backing up into your sinks, toilets, or bathtub. This could be happening for several reasons, including a full septic tank or an obstacle inside your tank. Hiring a professional septic service is always the best course of action when there is a sewage backup. They can pump it out and carry the necessary repairs needed.
Pooling Water Near Your Tank
Standing water close to your drain field and septic tank is a big deal and can damage your system. There are several reasons why there’s standing water near your tank, including clogged pipes in the drain field that are preventing the water from flowing properly, or septic tank failure due to a lack of proper maintenance. Don’t ignore this, as it can lead to expensive and extensive repairs and even system replacement. You can prevent this with regular septic tank care and maintenance.
Old Septic Tank
If your septic tank was installed properly, isn’t overloaded, and is well-built, you should expect it to last for 20 to 30 years on average with regular maintenance. A newer tank will be far more efficient than an older one, as older tanks might be more prone to blockages, breakage, and other kinds of damage because of their age. It is always best to get your septic tank professionally inspected after it has reached the end of its lifespan and get it replaced it advised by your septic professional.
Stay Ahead of Septic System Issues
The best way to avoid these septic system issues is to look after your septic system, stick to a regular maintenance schedule, and get your tank pumped on time. Schedule your septic inspection and pumping today with 505 Portable Restrooms, the septic experts in Rio Grande.
