7 Sure-Shot Ways To Know If Your Septic Tank Is Failing 

1. Slow Drains and Backups: 

One of the first symptoms of a septic tank issue is slow drains or recurring backups in sinks, showers, toilets, or other plumbing fixtures. If you perceive that water is draining slowly or backing up, it could indicate that your septic tank is full or experiencing a blockage, and it demonstrates that it's time to inspect your septic tank. 

2. Foul Odors:

Solid and unpleasant odors emanating from drains, toilets, or the area around the septic tank can signal a septic tank breakdown. A healthy septic system should not produce foul smells. Sewage odors indicate a potential problem with the tank, such as a leak or improper drainage. 

3. Lush and Soggy Lawn: 

If you have a septic tank, pay attention to the condition of your lawn. A healthy septic system should not cause excessive moisture or pooling water in your yard. However, if you notice unusually lush and green patches of grass, standing water, or excessively wet areas around the septic tank or drain field, it could hint at a septic tank issue, such as a leak or drainage problem. 

4. Gurgling Sounds: 

Gurgling or bubbling sounds from drains, toilets, or plumbing fixtures can indicate a septic tank problem. These sounds occur when air is trapped in the plumbing system due to a blockage or backup. If you consistently hear gurgling sounds when using water fixtures, it's essential to have your septic system inspected. 

5. Sewage Backup or Overflow:

A severe septic tank breakdown can lead to sewage backups or overflows. If you notice sewage coming up through drains, toilets, or other plumbing fixtures, your septic system is malfunctioning. Sewage backups pose health risks and require immediate attention from a professional plumber. 

6. Unexplained Patches of Green Grass:

While a vibrant and healthy lawn is desirable, unexplained patches of excessively green grass near your septic tank or drain field can indicate a septic tank issue. The effluent from a malfunctioning septic system can act as a fertilizer, causing certain lawn areas to appear greener and more lush than others. 

7. High Nitrate Levels in Well Water:

Testing your water for high nitrate levels is essential if your property relies on a well for drinking water and you suspect a septic tank breakdown. A malfunctioning septic system can contaminate groundwater, leading to elevated nitrate levels. High concentrations of nitrates in water can harm human health, particularly for infants and pregnant women. 

Takeaway

Identifying a septic tank breakdown requires paying attention to various signs and symptoms. If you observe any of these signs above, you must contact a professional septic system service provider to inspect and address the problem promptly. They do their job very well and leave you with a burden lifted from your shoulders. Regular septic tank maintenance and inspections can prevent breakdowns and ensure the proper functioning of your septic system. Get started today and hire a cleaning professional today.