If you’ve recently purchased a home with a septic system, you might be nervous about whether or not it’s in good shape. Luckily, there are a few warning signs you should look out for. From gurgling water to leaks and slow draining, read on for a few examples.
Slow draining
If you have a septic system, you may be surprised that your drains are running slowly. This can cause headaches in your home and lead to flushing problems. However, there are many reasons your drains are running slower than usual. It is essential to know what your problem is before you can fix it.
First, you can look for signs of a full tank. There are several indicators, but one is a pool of water in your yard. In most cases, this is a good thing. You will need to be careful, though. Flood irrigation can clog your drain pipes.
Second, you can check your septic tank for any sludge buildup. A sludge/scum layer above 30% of the tank’s capacity can slow down the septic system.
Third, if your septic system is not working correctly, you can expect bad smells and sewage backup. A sewage backup is not only bad for your health, but it can also clog your pipes.
Gurgling water
Gurgling water is a symptom that you may have a septic tank problem. This can be a warning that you must take action to repair your septic tank. Septic tank problems are costly to fix and can be hazardous to your and your family’s health. Getting your septic tank pumped regularly is essential to prevent backups.
A blockage often causes gurgling drains in the pipes leading to the septic tank or the leach field. Sometimes, the clog is tiny, and you can clear it yourself with a plunger. However, if it is more extensive, it may require a tool like a toilet snake.
Another cause of gurgling is a malfunctioning vent. Sewage gases and waste build up in a vent when not working correctly. When the vent is blocked, sewage gas and waste can return to the home. It is best to have the septic system checked by a professional.
Puddles near the septic tank
If you’re experiencing puddles near your septic tank, there’s a good chance that your septic system needs repair. Some experts recommend checking your septic system at least once a year.
There are a few different signs that you should look out for when figuring out if your septic system needs repair. For instance, if your toilets need to be faster to flush, that’s a problem.
Another indicator is seeing a lot of water leaking out of your toilets. This can be due to a clogged drain or an overloaded septic tank.
It’s also a good idea to have an expert check your septic tank like the septic tank repair Fort Worth if you need help with what’s going on. When a septic system is functioning correctly, you shouldn’t see any visible puddles of water in your yard.
Other signs of a failing septic system include foul odors and wet patches. These are generally harmless but can be a sign of a significant problem.
Leaking wastewater
If your wastewater backs up into your home, you have a septic system issue. It can be very unpleasant and can also pose health risks. The best way to prevent a septic problem is to inspect your system regularly.
One of the most significant signs of septic failure is when you start to notice puddles in your yard. Puddles can mean you have a problem with the drain field or a clogged inlet baffle. It would help if you had your septic tank inspected by a professional every year to prevent problems.
Another sign of a septic problem is when you have a strong sewage odor. This odor is a byproduct of anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria release gases and can produce a rotten egg odor.
If you have a persistent septic odor, you should look for exposed fixtures or try to smoke test for leaks. Otherwise, you may need to have your entire system repaired.