If you pump your septic tank every few years or as recommended, you may think it's enough to keep the system going. However, you may need to service your septic tank before it's time. Your septic system could be experiencing some issues that affect how well it performs. Below are signs that indicate you need to service your septic tank ahead of schedule.
You Notice Insects Around the Tank
Septic tanks contain all of the solid and liquid waste produced in your home. The tank should process most of the waste before it passes on to the septic field in your yard. But if you notice insects swarming around the tank's lid, it may be time to empty the tank.
Septic tanks can become full of waste if they stop working. If the tank's lid isn't properly sealed, odors may waft out of the tank and attract insects. Insects may also enter the tank and lay eggs. Once the eggs hatch, larvae and other bugs may enter the plumbing lines and drains connected to the tank and make their way into your plumbing system.
You can control the insects entering your plumbing system with bleach or another cleanser. But unless you pump out the tank and secure its lid, the issue may only persist. The best thing you might do is have a septic tank company pump out the tank for you. A company can also replace or secure the tank's lid to prevent issues from occurring in the future.
You Notice Flooding in and Around the Drainfield
In addition to insect problems, you may need to service your septic system early if you notice problems with the drainfield. The drainfield receives all of the liquid waste created or siphoned by your septic tank. The organisms inside the field should process most of the germs inside the waste. If the drainfield stops functioning properly, it can build up with liquid waste. The waste will gradually overflow the field and soak into your yard.
If the drainfield is backed up, you'll know it. The area around the field will look soggy or lush. The ground will also feel soft and mushy. Insects and other pests may frequent the area as well.
A septic tank contractor can salvage the drainfield by cleaning and treating it. If the field is severely flooded with waste, you may need to replace it. A contractor or company can go over your options with you.
Contact a septic tank service for more information. You may need to take care of your septic system before it's scheduled to do so.
People in first world countries typically enjoy excellent sanitation standards. From filtered water and indoor plumbing to municipal trash systems, it can be easy to take sanitation for granted. However, over the course of a few years, it is entirely possible to start using these sanitations incorrectly, which can really be detrimental to the larger plan. The purpose of this website is to talk about how to maintain sanitation systems by using best practices in the comfort of your own home. Check out these tips for advice on how to make things better in the long run to protect the sanitation you enjoy.