Not all properties have septic tanks, but for those that do, it’s crucial homeowners keep an eye on them and know the warning signs to look out for that there is a problem. Even a seemingly insignificant issue with your septic tank has the potential to rapidly escalate into a highly inconvenient and expensive disaster. Read on to find out more about what you should be looking for.
Slow Drains
As tempting as it may be to rush to use chemical drain cleaners as soon as you spot a clog, you should consider the possibility that the problem lies further down the plumbing line. Multiple slow or clogged drains may be the result of a congested sewage line leading to the septic tank or an overflowing septic tank.
A plumbing snake can clear out most obstructions, but a plumber will need special equipment to unclog a sewage line. If you see an issue like this, it’s best to get in touch with a professional drain cleaning company to fix the issue, but you’ll still need to consider the root cause – your septic tank.
Mud Around The Tank
Even if you live in a place where it rains a lot, you should watch out for strange puddles or small spots of mud. Especially bad is mud around the septic tank, which is typically an obvious sign that the tank or adjacent pipelines need to be fixed. You might also start to smell sewage on your property, in addition to the mud or wet grass.
Depressions In The Ground
Any excess sewage that is escaping from the septic tank can eventually harm the soil that is underneath the grass, which can lead to depressions in the ground if the damage is allowed to continue for a sufficient amount of time. Before seeing that certain areas of their lawn have begun to sink, many homeowners are completely unaware that their septic system is faulty or that it is at capacity.
This problem, which can also be caused by a wide variety of other sewage or drainage issues, should never be taken lightly because it can have serious consequences. You should absolutely have a landscaper or a plumber come out and check the system at the very least.
Cracks Or Pinholes
You should carefully check all of your septic system’s exposed parts for damage indications once every few weeks. It’s possible that cracks or rust patches will start to appear after a few years. Every year or two, the system must also undergo a professional inspection by a plumber or septic tank expert.
It’s also crucial to remember to empty the tank on a regular basis, ideally every six months or so. This will prevent the tank from overflowing, which can also cause problems.
Even though the majority of septic tanks require very little care, a variety of problems could start to arise. You might be able to avoid a costly and time-consuming issue down the road by taking care of that damage as soon as you can.
