Around 16% of homes across the country use private septic tank systems. These systems take the load off of the public sewer system and help homeowners in more remote areas.
For many homeowners, a septic tank is a great solution for their home. But that doesn’t mean they don’t come without problems. When a septic tank isn’t working right, you can have a very expensive issue to deal with if you’re not careful.
And that’s why septic tank pumping on a regular basis is so important. Check out this guide to learn all the signs that it’s time to bring in the septic tank services!
1. Strong, Unusual Smells
Obviously, a residential septic tank is no stranger to smells. No one should expect them to smell fresh or like flowers!
But they shouldn’t really be noticeable either. If you start to notice a strong, foul smell outside your home that doesn’t go away, you may have a septic tank problem. This is especially true if the smell seems to be localized to one area that’s along the path of the system.
Give the smell a couple of days to go away. And if it doesn’t, call in the professionals for an evaluation.
2. New Noises From Drains
Typically, in a well-functioning system, you won’t hear much from your drains. You may hear the water rushing down the drain, but it’s usually short and fairly quiet.
When you start to notice a gurgling noise coming from your drains, it’s time to pay attention.
This is a clear sign that the water’s path is blocked and has to force its way through. Pumping the septic tank can release that pressure and allow the water to flow freely.
3. Drains are Slowing Down
Along the same lines, when you’re in need of septic tank services you may notice that your drains are going slow. This will happen in the sinks, showers, and baths. You’ll likely see a backup of water every time the faucet is turned on.
It can be tempting to try to wait out the problem and see if the blockage clears. But this can lead to bigger problems if left for too long.
When you have a septic tank, it’s best to just call in the pros to make sure everything is working the right way.
4. Trouble Flushing Toilets
One of the worst plumbing problems is when your toilet isn’t working right. It will completely disrupt daily life. And there really isn’t a pleasant workaround for dealing with that.
Pay close attention when your toilets won’t flush easily. Having to use the plunger too often can be a clear indicator that the tank is full and needs to be pumped.
5. Large Puddles in Yard
Often, homeowners keep an eye out for plumbing problems in their homes. But they forget to watch the outside as well. This leaves your septic tank vulnerable to extended problems and damage. Your lawn can be a good way to monitor the function of your septic tank.
Large puddles in your yard can mean that the tank has overflowed and the excess water is pooling. It’s an especially clear sign when a puddle shows up near your tank.
6. Change in Lawn’s Look
There are a lot of things that affect the color and health of your lawn. But the septic tank is often a forgotten influence.
If there is a sudden, unexplained change in the color of your grass, you may want to look into your tank. A lush, bright green color can mean that the material from the tank is seeping out. It acts as great fertilizer but can mean you’re in for more serious problems soon.
Keep a close eye on the grass that covers or is near the septic tank for signs of an issue.
7. Obvious Overflow
Sometimes the signs of a septic tank problem are less subtle and can hit you over the head. Like when the tank overflows and you have almost a flood on your property. The best case scenario is when you can catch the overflow as soon as it starts so you can get it pumped.
Pumping your septic tank relieves the pressure and allows you to avoid a full flood.
8. Algae or Mold Growth
Excess water where it shouldn’t be can cause many problems, including algae or mold growth. A full septic tank that’s leaking water can result in these things growing on the surface.
When you notice these kinds of growth, it’s important to get your septic tank checked quickly.
Too often mold or algae are left for too long. They can cause serious health problems when they go unchecked. It’s always worth a call to the professionals in these cases.
9. Off Schedule
A septic tank is designed to largely be out-of-sight, out-of-mind. So too often it gets forgotten when it comes to home maintenance tasks. This means they are vulnerable to issues that can cost you a lot in damages.
When you realize it’s been a long time since your last septic tank maintenance, you should call the pros.
Keeping up with your septic tank schedule can make a huge difference and save you a lot of money in the end.
Signs You Need a Septic Tank Pumping Right Away
Taking care of a septic tank is a crucial aspect of being a homeowner. Letting problems go is a huge mistake that can end up causing a lot of chaos. It’s a good idea to watch for these signs to know when you might need septic tank pumping.
But it’s even better to make septic tank maintenance a regular part of your routine. When you get your tank pumped every couple of years, you won’t have to worry about seeing any of these signs in your home. You can feel confident that everything is going to continue to work just how it’s supposed to!
Our team of septic tank experts can help you determine the best way to care for your system. We understand how to keep them working best for your family. Get in touch with one of our experts today!
