How To Troubleshoot Common Septic System Issues

When a home isn’t connected to a municipal sewer system, it uses a septic tank system. Septic tank systems are self-contained units consisting of a septic tank and a drain field buried just below the lawn. Generally, they take care of themselves and require periodic draining, cleaning, and inspection by a certified professional at least once a year. When things go awry with your septic system, you can do a few things before calling in the pros. Learn how to troubleshoot common septic system issues.

Slow Drains

Are your drains taking too long to do their things? There’s likely a clog in the pipes or an issue with the septic system. Begin with the basics. A plunger or drain snake will clear minor clogs that aren’t too far down the pipe.

Don’t use drain cleaners if you have a septic system! The chemicals may clear the drain, but they may also kill the helpful bacteria that live in the tank and break down waste. If the slow drainage continues despite your efforts, it might be time to enjoy the benefits of having the septic tank pumped by professionals.

Foul Smells

Are strange and unpleasant odors coming from the drains, yard, or near the location of the tank? Your tank may be full and require pumping, or it could be leaking. Look for leaks around the septic tank area. If you can’t find any, you likely need to have the tank pumped. On the other hand, inspect the vent stacks on your roof. If they’re obstructed, then the odors generated by the tank have nowhere to go but back into your home. Here’s another suggestion: purchase a septic tank cleaning solution at the hardware store and add it to the tank to deal with odors by balancing the tank’s bacterial content.

Pooling Water and Lush Grass

Calm pools of water and lush, wavy grass may sound lovely, but they’re not when a septic tank is the cause. If you find either or both over your septic tank, it may be overloaded or leaking. Otherwise, look for leaks inside your home that may be sending more water to the tank than it can handle. Fix leaky faucets, add water-saving fixtures, and space out laundry and dishwashing that uses large volumes of water. Divert rainwater from your home away from the septic tank area, too. If the problem persists, call an expert.

High Nitrate Levels in Well Water

If you have a septic system, you probably have well water, too. Test it regularly to ensure it remains healthy and pure. A leaky septic system may contaminate it. High nitrate levels in your water may indicate a septic system leak. You can’t see or taste nitrates, but they’re not good for you and are terrible for babies and children. High levels require an expert’s inspection. Unfortunately, this is one case where DIY doesn’t come into play.

That’s how to troubleshoot common septic system issues. By understanding and addressing these common septic tank issues, you can ensure your system lasts a long time, protecting your family’s health and well-being.