Septic systems are great for keeping effluent water and waste away from the house. However, sometimes, there might be some problems with it that would lead you to have it inspected for repairs or a replacement. The inspections are done by septic companies and they suggest you what you should do. However, if you want to know when to get your septic system inspected and when to expect repairs or a replacement, read this guide.
Signs Of Septic System Problems
The Drains Are Slow
A functional septic system will ensure that no water ever stays in the drain for too long. So, if you see that the toilets, sinks, and bathroom drains are getting clogged and there is still water in the drain, then that is not a normal sign at all. This is something that can happen when the tank is either overfilled or the drain field is clogged. This will not allow the water in the house to be drained in the tank properly and this can cause a lot of problems.
You will hear weird noises and there will also be regurgitation of water in the drains, and you will see dark and murky water making its way into the drains all over the house. That is not a pleasant sight at all and you want to get to the root of the problem straight away, which is the septic system.
There Are Leaks In The Tank
Septic tanks aren’t going to last forever. There might be times when the foundation of the tank may leak and cause the effluent water to puddle up all over the outside of your house. How will you notice that? Well, there are a couple of signs.
First of all, you will see that the greenery outside your house will double. This is because effluent and wastewater are rich in fertilizers and this water can increase plant growth. Another thing that you will see is that puddles will start to form around your floors and they will discolor your flooring.
The Water Is Getting Contaminated
Sometimes, wastewater can find its way into the clean water reservoirs and it can cause contamination. That is bad and you will end up in a huge bind if this is persistent. You will experience a very putrid smell in the water coming from your taps and even in drinking water, which is never a good sign.
So, this might be because of leaks in the septic tank or it may be due to overfilling of the tank. Whatever it is, you need to solve the problem because the water you’re using around the house is getting affected and that’s not pleasant at all.
There Is A Very Bad Smell
Another thing that can lead to the repair or replacement of the septic tank is when you start to smell really bad odors around the house and even on the outside. Your drains will smell a lot and the odor will diffuse in the house and it will turn your house into a stinky mess.
It is not what you want and this is very alarming, so it’s best to call in a septic tank professional and have them take a look at your tank to figure out what the problem is.
There Is Water Backup
The last sign that can indicate that there might be a problem with your septic system is the fact that there is water backup in the pipes. This can be noticed by the gurgling and weird noises coming from the pipes and drains when you open them to use water.
This is something that can lead to spitting of water and if the water is already contaminated, then it’s going to be an even major problem. So, always keep an ear out for those weird noises because there might be something wrong and you want to fix the problem as quickly as you can.
What To Repair A Septic System?
Here are some septic system problems that can be easily repaired.
Distribution Box
A septic distribution box is essentially a system that allows the wastewater to move from the pipes, into the drain field and finally into the tanks at the very end. However, a lot of the time this box can get collapsed or damaged and this can affect the flow of the wastewater in the drain field. This will change the direction of the water and your septic tank will overflow.
This is why it’s really important to keep an eye out for any damage in the distribution box because it needs to be changed.
Septic Tank Seal
A septic tank seal is a contraption that is used to keep all of the toxic waste and gasses inside the tank and not let it penetrate the air. However, these seals or lids aren’t indestructible and they can get broken and they also need to be replaced from time to time.
To keep your house and the surrounding area smelling pleasant, you need to change these seals now and then, especially if it’s been a long time and you haven’t maintained the septic tank. In that case schedule an inspection along with septic tank cleaning Washington County.
Pipes
The pipes of the septic tank can also need replacement and repair. Pipes will get corroded and they can also leak over time, especially if they have been installed for years and never been changed before.
Also, the toxic and effluent water is very corrosive and it can damage the pipes. It’s up to you to maintain these pipes so that the septic system doesn’t run into major problems in the future. This can be a bit of work, but it’s well worth it in the end and you won’t regret investing your time, energy, and money on this reconstructive work.
When To Replace Your Septic System?
Here are some conditions in which you have no choice but to replace your septic system or tank altogether.
Too Much Puddles
If you are seeing puddles forming within hours or overnight, then this is extremely alarming and it shows that something is very wrong with the septic tank. This is why it’s recommended that you call in a professional and have them inspect the tank.
This calls for an in-depth inspection and they will tell you whether the damage can be repaired or if the septic tank needs to be completely replaced.
Waste Has Increased
If the amount of wastewater is too much and the existing septic tank in your house is too small, then you have no choice but to get a bigger and stronger tank installed because a small one isn’t going to cut it.
You’ll constantly need to empty it and it’s just too much work in the long run. Therefore, it’s better to bite the bullet now and get a bigger septic tank and call it a day. It might be a hassle, but you’ll be saving yourself from years’ worth of maintenance, so it’s worth it.
Conclusion
A septic system lasts for decades before needing a replacement, however, there can be times when it is inevitable, especially if you’re not maintaining it properly or there are some major problems. New septic system installation WV also becomes necessary if you buy a new house and after an inspection, the expert suggests a replacement.
