A failing septic tank is one of the most stressful, time-consuming, and potentially the most costly problems a homeowner can come across. Since it is not easy to repair most of these problems, it is essential to make sure you notice the problems immediately. Since most of these symptoms are blatant and obvious, noticing them should not be too difficult.
Slow Draining
In some cases, you will experience slow draining as you flush the toilet. Upon flushing, you will realize a dramatically slow drain that is usually increased after a hard rain. However, you can try to solve the issue with drain clearing solutions and if the problem persists, it is probably a tank problem that must be solved immediately. Note that this is a common sign that you need to get a professional to look at your septic. The issue in the septic tank that leads to slow draining is a blocked plumbing vent or a fixture that is not vented.
Foul Smell
Another evident symptom of a septic tank problem is the foul smell that the tank produces. This is the most common of symptoms that will signal you when something is not right with the tank, and the odor can spread outside the compound and still decontaminate throughout your apartment. In most cases, this septic tank problem is caused by the plumbing system that was vented inappropriately. Additionally, it will also imply that the whole septic tank system is on its way to failing. As a result of the potential seriousness of the condition, it is of paramount importance that once you notice this problem, you get a professional who is experienced to check out the issue immediately.
Alarm
The majority of modern septic tank systems are equipped with an alarm that will signal you once the tank starts to experience issues. However, it is sad that many homeowners do not know that there is an alarm installed in the septic tank. This device,a pressure transducer, is always situated either inside or outside your house and whenever your tank has a problem; it will either produce a red light or emit a beeping sound.
Green Grass
This sign is not very common during the spring and summer season, and it might not be noticeable unless you look for it. Nevertheless, the sign will be recognizable during cooler monthsas the other grass will be dry. This means if you notice greener and healthier grass over the drainage area of the tank, just know that there is a leak within the system. The grass will appear greener because the tank is supplying a huge amount of nutrients and liquid from the substance flushed.
The myriad of septic tank problems is instigated by different things that are not supposed to get into the tank through the toilet, kitchen sink, or garbage disposal. To avoid such problems, the only thing that is supposed to be flushed down the toilet is the human waste and safe toilet paper. The kitchen sink should contain gray water to avoid solids and heavy use of garbage disposal.
Understanding Potential Drain Field Glitches
Note that these are the most common septic tank issues that are associated with issues near the drain field. Therefore, avoid parking your car or heavy machinery on the drain field since the excess weight will lead to problems below that can affect the proper functioning of the tank. The region above the drain field must be free from any obstruction because heavy items and traffic will comprise the safety of the pipe below.
Additionally, sludge overload on the drain field will cause sulfite and buildup of bio-material that needs the skills of a technician with the knowledge to use tools to assuage before it gets worse. Avoid pouring grease down the drain or into toilets as they will condense and harden as they go down the pipe. This will cause serious capping that will cut off the oxygen in the system and will damage the drain field. Avoid planting new trees near the septic tank field because its roots will start looking for moisture underground and they will break the tank, drain field or the pipes associated with the septic system. The moment the roots reach where moisture is produced, they will grow and cause serious problems.
