How To Tell If Septic Tank Is Cracked? (TOP 5 Tips)

Cracked Septic Tanks and the Environment

1. The area around the septic tank is saturated.
2. Dark water with a strong odor is present at the ground surface.
3. Drainage from the house is extremely slow with frequent backups occurring in sinks and tubs.
4. Toilets aren’t flushing properly.

What would cause a septic tank to crack?

A concrete tank can crack due to age, earth movement, or because the concrete wasn’t made and poured properly. While older tanks may be more prone to cracking, fairly new ones can crack too if they weren’t made properly or if there is a minor earthquake that jolts the tank.

How do you fix a cracked septic system?

To repair large cracks, your septic repair technician will pump out and clean the tank. They will let it thoroughly dry and then apply concrete crack filler to the cracks. Finally, once cured, then the tank can safely be used again.

How do I know if my septic tank needs replacing?

5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Septic System

1. Age of the System. It’s pretty common for a septic system to last 40 years or longer, which means if you buy a new home, you might never need to replace it.
2. You’ve Outgrown the System.
3. Slow Drains.
4. Standing Water in the Yard.
5. Nearby Contaminated Water Sources.

What is the life expectancy of a concrete septic tank?

Inspectapedia estimates that a steel tank baffles will rust out in 15 to 20 years and may collapse if driven over, but a concrete tank will last 40 years or more as long as the wastewater is not acidic. It’s important to consider the life expectancy of a drain-field, too.

Can you repair the top of a septic tank?

If it is not rusted, you can replace the rusted top with a heavy-duty plastic or concrete lid. Concrete septic tank covers are heavy but strong and durable. Plastic covers offer faster access to the septic tank and are much easier to install.

How often does a septic tank need replacing?

Typical lifespan is in excess of 30 years for GRP, PE and concrete tanks. Assuming optimal conditions of install and use, you could expect the following: Steel septic tanks have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years.

Does heavy rain affect septic tank?

It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.

How do I know if my leach field is failing?

The following are a few common signs of leach field failure: Grass over leach field is greener than the rest of the yard. The surrounding area is wet, mushy, or even has standing water. Sewage odors around drains, tank, or leach field.

How do you ruin a septic tank?

9 Ways You’re Destroying Your Septic Tank

1. Flushing Paper Products.
2. Pouring Grease Down the Drain.
3. Using Too Much Drain Cleaner.
4. Introducing Additives to Your System.
5. Flushing Cat Litter.
6. Neglecting to Pump Your Tank Regularly.
7. Planting Trees and Shrubs on Your Drain Field.
8. Washer Lint Overload.

Can you fix a concrete septic tank?

The most common problem with concrete septic tanks is that they crack, which causes leaks and problems with soil contamination. If the leaks are only minor, usually they can be repaired and sealed; allowing you to get more life out of your tank.

Can you patch a fiberglass septic tank?

Yes, most definitely! Fiberglass has a long history of being repaired. Small holes in fiberglass can be repaired as well as large cracks. Even if a fiberglass septic tank is split completely in half it is repairable.

Do septic tanks wear out?

Unfortunately, septic systems don’t last forever. With regular maintenance and pumping, your septic system can last many years. However, after decades of wear and tear, the system will need to be replaced.

Damaged or Cracked Septic Tank

Damaged baffles, fractured lids, and damaged or loose raisers can all occur in septic tanks, as well as cracked or degraded concrete. There are various warning signs to look out for, and some issues can only be identified by a septic check, so it is important to be vigilant.

The 3 most common materials for septic tanks are:

vehicles traveling over the tank’s rim One of the most common causes of tank cracking or damage is when vehicles like as automobiles, trucks, and tractors drive over the top of them, breaking either the access / lid or the tank, as seen below. Drive as far away from the tank or leach area as practicable whenever possible. 2. Improper installation of the tank may result in harm. Sometimes a tank is dropped or struck by a piece of installation equipment, resulting in significant damage to the tank.

Groundwater pressure or backfill pressure Improper back filling of the area around the tank may result in damage, including the placement of large boulders against the tank.

• 4.
• After being exposed to waste water for an extended period of time, concrete that has not been correctly mixed and designed may disintegrate.
• Fifth, tree roots can progressively slip into minor crevasses before exerting immense strain as they increase in size.
• Concrete, plastic, and fiberglass may be cracked as a result of this force.

Warning signs that there is a crack or damage

Owners and purchasers may be notified when there is a crack or damage to their tank on a regular basis. Some of the indications, on the other hand, may be indicative of other problems with the septic system. Signs to keep an eye out for include:

• Foul odor
• Lush plants
• A soggy place in the yard
• Standing water
• Toilets or sinks that are not draining properly

Diagnoses of these danger signals –(Read more about warning signs) (Read more about warning signs)

If Cracked or Damaged

An inspection of a septic tank may indicate that the tank is fractured or damaged in some way at some point. The severity and location of the problem will be taken into account when determining what should be done. In extreme cases, tank replacement may be essential; nevertheless, the vast majority of tanks that are inspected pass inspection and no action is required.

If a septic system is failing, it may be do to the leach field or sewer line

At times, we may believe that septic troubles are caused by the septic tank, but in reality, they are caused by a variety of other factors. It is possible that the leach field has failed, or that the sewer line connecting the septic tank has been clogged or broken, to name a couple of the most prevalent reasons.

• Clogs, drainage problems, distribution box problems, and the field reaching the end of its useful life are all possible causes of leach field problems. In this article, you will learn more about LEACH FIELDS.

• Roots blocking the pipe, cracks in the line, and damage to the line are all possible causes of sewer line difficulties. In addition, a separated sewage line where a segment of pipe has come free or a line that has developed an inward sag in the line might cause complications. A video inspection of the sewage line may quickly detect if the problem with the septic system is due to the sewer line. (For further information, see VIDEOING SEWER LINES.)

Tip –If you just can’t find the septic tank

There are occasions when you suspect that you have a septic tank problem but are unable to locate the septic tank. Nobody has a clue as to where it is or who might know where it is. You’ve looked in every direction you could think of. What are you going to do now? The newest sewage video technology includes excellent cameras and, in certain cases, transmission equipment that will send a signal from the camera to the monitoring station. You can use the signal to mark the location of the sewer line that leads to the tank.

• By doing so, you can determine the location of the tank as well as the depth of the line that leads to the tank.
• Whom should I seek advice from?
• Work on septic tanks and sewage lines can be done by plumbers and other skilled handypeople.
• As a result of the subject matter of some of our articles, we include links to goods that we believe may be of interest to readers.

If you decide to purchase a product or service after clicking on one of our affiliate links, we will get a small compensation, but the pricing will remain the same for you and us.

The Signs And Symptoms Of A Cracked Septic Tank – No More Stinky Septic Problems

It is possible to have a septic tank problem yet be unable to locate the septic tank. Nobody has a clue as to where it is or who might know where it is. There is nothing you have not searched for. You’re now faced with a dilemma. Septic video technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated, with high-quality cameras and transmission systems that can send a signal from the camera to a central location. You can indicate the location of the sewage line that leads to the tank with the help of the indicator.

1. If you follow these steps, you can find the tank and determine how deep the line leading to it goes.
2. Inquire with whom.
3. Work on septic tanks and sewage lines can be done by plumbers and other experienced handymen.
4. When relevant to the subject matter of our posts, we may include links to goods that we believe you will find useful.

How Can You Tell If Your Septic Tank Is Leaking? Here’s How To Spot A Cracked Tank And What You Can Do To Fix It – Starting the New Year with a New Business

Byron Gutierrez was born on February 7, 2019. Despite the fact that septic tanks are quite resilient and may endure for decades, they are nonetheless susceptible to damage from automobiles or tree roots. When a septic tank splits, it causes waste to seep into the surrounding region, causing contamination. Additionally, water from the ground might enter your septic tank via the break, causing it to fill up more quickly than usual. A full septic tank can prevent waste from flowing into the tank, causing it to back up into your home’s plumbing fittings.

• What are the causes of a septic tank cracking and leaking?
• Occasionally, as earth beneath a septic tank begins to settle, little fractures in the concrete tank might appear throughout it.
• Concrete, on the other hand, is corroded by septic waste.
• Major fractures can occur and cause septic waste to leak as a result of the leak.
• Vehicles that drive over them or park on top of them are the most common cause of their destruction.
• What Are the Signs of a Septic Tank That Is Leaking?
• When a septic tank fails and waste escapes into the ground, some of it may percolate up through the soil and become visible on the surface.

It is possible that if the grass above your sewage tank seems to be unusually green and healthy when compared to the surrounding grass, there is a septic tank leak.

When it rains, a leaky septic tank can cause standing water to collect in the area above the tank, which can be dangerous.

In the area above the tank, this forms a shallow valley that allows water to pool, and the saturated soil beneath the tank causes the pace at which rainfall drains to be slowed.

First, you should never attempt to check or repair your septic tank yourself.

When your septic tank fails, it is quite dangerous since you can quickly fall into the tank or become entangled in muddy sewage.

There are several other types of septic system problems that may manifest themselves in the same way as a broken tank.

A thorough septic system examination will assist you in identifying the root of your septic system problem, allowing you to make the necessary repairs.

Septic tanks made of fiberglass or plastic cannot be fixed after they have cracked; thus, they must be removed and replaced.

A concrete septic tank that has been significantly damaged by corrosive septic waste would need to be completely replaced.

It is possible that the ground around your septic tank may get completely flooded with waste if the leak continues to worsen. Consequently, your plumbing fixtures will be unable to drain wastewater via your septic system, which can result in overflowing toilets and clogged shower drains. Share

3 Common Causes of Cracked Septic Tanks

The most significant part of a septic system is the subterranean tank, which retains wastewater as it travels out of your property. Despite the fact that this tank is extremely durable, it is still susceptible to damage if it is not properly maintained. Cracks in a septic tank are the most prevalent type of septic system damage. A fracture in the tank allows wastewater to escape, posing a possible health concern to anyone who are exposed to it. For additional information on the variables that might cause a septic tank to become damaged, continue reading the following paragraphs.

1. Even when sunk many feet beneath the surface of the ground, a septic tank is incapable of withstanding such compressive pressures.
2. Make a note of the precise position of your septic tank, and never drive or park a car in the area where it is located.
3. A septic specialist can assist you in determining which tank design will provide the necessary top-loading strength to withstand automobile damage.
4. Other tanks consist of fresh ready-mix concrete poured into molds and hardened on-site.
5. Ideally, your concrete mix should have a water to cement ratio of no more than 0.45.
6. A high bleed rate increases the quantity of capillary pores in the concrete, resulting in a more porous concrete.
7. This porosity is a concern for long-term durability, especially for people who reside in colder climates where winters are particularly harsh.

Having a low water-to-cement ratio enhances the watertightness of the concrete, which helps to protect it from damage caused by expansion pressures.

These expansive soils may absorb far higher amounts of water than conventional soil.

As your tank’s expanding soil absorbs water and expands, it puts increasing amounts of pressure on the walls of the tank as a result.

Expansive soil can also become a concern during very dry years, when it shrinks and pulls away from the tank’s walls, causing it to become undersupported.

The first step in preventing harm caused by expanding soil is to plan your septic system properly.

Homeowners can also preserve pre-existing tanks from soil expansion by implementing sound water management practices in their homes.

It is possible that you may need to use the opposite strategy during dry seasons in order to guarantee that your yard is enough hydrated to prevent severe shrinking.

For more information on how to prevent a septic tank from breaking, get in touch with the experts at The Nibbler Company in the sector.

Cracked Septic Tank

A fracture has been discovered in the septic tank of Suzanne, who lives in Florida. This does not sound promising. Inform us of the nature of the problem. SUZANNE: Yes, I’ve had a difficulty here. This house has been mine since I bought it. It was constructed in 1984. The septic tank was never drained out before I purchased the property, and I think this is true. It had been pumped out. Everything appeared to be in working order, but – and I was able to get to the bottom of it with the service contractor that I had on site, and he drained everything out – there was a gap in the side that looked just like a hose of groundwater was seeping in from the outside.

1. Your septic tank and drain field are going to have to be completely replaced.” TOM: So, why do you need a new drain field if your septic tank is fractured, in the first place?
2. Susanne says she doesn’t know, but – well, obviously – she doesn’t know; if that’s simply what they’re trying to sell her, she doesn’t know.
3. TOM: Yeah, that’s what it sounds like.
4. There are two – we’re talking about two separate geographical places here, to be precise.
5. LESLIE: Oh, that’s right.
6. Essentially, the drain field is a network of pipes that run underground and are perforated, and it is responsible for distributing the effluent that comes up and over the tank; so, we are discussing two distinct things here.
7. Suzanne, you know what would be a nice thing to do in this situation.

The best course of action, in my opinion, would be to get an impartial review.

Look for an inspector who has been certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).

Make sure they are professionals in septic tank evaluation and have them come out and look at it and prescribe a repair here, since I don’t think you’ll have to perform a complete replacement in this situation.

SUZANNE: Thank you very much for everything, and best of luck to you as well as thank you.

TOM: Thank you very much.

We appreciate your business.

How To Tell If Your Septic System Needs Repair Or Replacement

In most cases, homeowners and business owners who utilize a septic system do not consider about their system until there is a problem.

Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service specializes in the installation, maintenance, and repair of septic systems of the highest quality. In order to discover whether or not you will need to replace your current system, contact us immediately to arrange septic tank services.

Common Indicators Of Septic System Repair

It is inevitable that a septic system will require repairs, and it is critical to schedule these repairs as soon as the problem first manifests itself. Hopefully, by taking preventive measures, you will be able to extend the life of your sewage treatment system.

Slow Drains

If your drains begin to slow down or clog, it’s likely that you have a problem with your septic system. Keep in mind that a septic system relies on clear pipes and plumbing to work correctly, and that neglecting a sluggish drain might set off a series of events that would necessitate a costly repair down the road.

Sewage Backups

Because the goal of drains is to transport waste away, if the waste returns in the form of backed-up sewage, you will want emergency septic service. Even while frequent tank pump-outs are normally helpful in avoiding this predicament, a sudden backup indicates that there is an issue.

Putrid Odors

When there is an accumulation of waste — both solid and liquid — in the septic tank, the scents associated with it become more obvious. However, if the scents suddenly arise, it is possible that there is a blockage in the plumbing system, which will impact the entire plumbing system.

Common Types Of Septic Tank Repairs

In most septic systems, the distribution box is the designation for where the drain field pipes link to the tank. The distribution box is responsible for uniformly spreading liquid waste into the pipes. If it collapses or is somehow damaged, too much or too little liquid might reach the drain field, resulting in clogging of the pipes. Depending on the age of the system, the box may be constructed of concrete, which is susceptible to deterioration by the gases that circulate inside the septic tank during operation.

Defective Septic Tank Seal

In order to prevent the escape of waste and byproducts, such as hazardous gases, all septic tanks are completely sealed. However, the seal may begin to fracture over time, whether as a result of physical damage to the tank or natural weathering damage to the tank. Every septic system maintenance check-up should involve a comprehensive assessment of the seal and, if necessary, the implementation of suitable repairs.

Damaged Pipes

In order to prevent the escape of waste and byproducts, such as hazardous gases, all septic tanks are tightly sealed. However, the seal may begin to fracture over time, whether as a result of physical damage to the tank or natural weathering degradation. An inspection of the seal, as well as any necessary repairs, should be performed on a regular basis during septic system maintenance.

Warning Signs Of Septic Tank Replacement

Septic tank businesses such as Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service know how to detect when it is time to replace a system, despite the fact that most systems endure for several decades on average. The following are the most prevalent signals that a system needs to be replaced that we encounter.

Puddles Form In The Yard Overnight

Septic tank companies such as Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service know how to tell when it is time to replace a system, despite the fact that most systems last for several decades in most situations.

Listed below are some of the most often seen signals indicating a system needs to be replaced.

Household Size Has Increased

The size of the tank is determined by the number of persons that routinely contribute to the septic system. If the size of your household has changed — or if you’re purchasing a property with a tank that is smaller than suggested — your system should be modified to accommodate the increasing needs.

System Needs Frequent Repairs

Just as with any other type of maintenance, there comes a point at which the expense of regular repairs outweighs the cost of replacing the system. Furthermore, a system that requires recurrent maintenance is likely to be a deteriorating system that will require replacement in the near future.

Well Water Is Contaminated

Water quality testing for wells and other potable water sources is included in the majority of septic system examinations. It is likely that if impurities such as bacteria and/or nitrates are discovered and a septic system is close, the attention would move to inspecting the system for leaks and repairing any damage. It is critical to address any pollution as soon as possible in order to minimize or lessen environmental and health consequences.

Inspection Reveals An Incorrect Tank

An examination is the only method to determine whether or not your present septic tank is acceptable for your location. Unless the tank is situated at a sufficient soil depth, gravity will be unable to properly transfer waste in the majority of situations. According to other parameters such as soil structure, our professionals can decide which type of septic tank would be most appropriate for the site and your requirements. A commitment to providing high-quality service is shared by Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Services.

We can help you restore the functionality of your septic system if it has stopped working.

Identifying And Repairing Concrete Septic Tank Cracks – Understanding Septic System Problems

Categories:,Blog,Posted on: August 24, 2019 Concrete septic tanks are known to survive for many decades without the need for maintenance from homeowners. Under normal conditions, concrete septic tanks are virtually resilient to harm; nonetheless, earthquakes, unknown construction problems, and heavy machinery being driven over them can all cause damage. In many cases, these items can cause fissures in the concrete, which can enable water to seep into the tank and raw sewage to seep out of the tank.

• The crack should be corrected as soon as feasible if it is discovered.
• Confirmation that your septic tank has a crack Septic tanks may only be determined definitively when they have been cleaned out and inspected by a competent specialist in the field of septic systems.
• If a tank has suffered significant damage due to its age, it may be necessary to replace it with a new one.
• This is due to the fact that the lid is always under tension due to the weight of the dirt deposited on top of it.
• Simple removal, cleaning, and drying are required before a concrete filler or glue may be applied to the cracked region of the lid.
• Septic tank lids that are structurally deficient are a hazard to anyone who walks on the surface above them when they are in use.
• Because septic gases are poisonous, they can cause significant harm or even death if they are breathed in.
• In addition to cracks in the lid, faults in the concrete tank itself are possible.
• Your septic repair professional will pump out and thoroughly clean the tank in order to fix big fractures.

They will allow it to cure completely before applying concrete crack filler to the fractures in the concrete. Finally, after the tank has been properly healed, it may be securely re-used. Check out websites like as for further information.

How A Contractor Might Deal With A Crack In Your Septic Tank – Talking About Sanitation Services

In addition to catching problems with cracks that form, frequent septic tank inspections are crucial because they prevent problems from developing. Concrete tanks can fracture as a result of age, ground movement, or because the concrete was not mixed and poured in the appropriate manner. While older tanks may be more prone to cracking, even relatively modern tanks might break if they were not constructed properly or if there is a mild earthquake that causes the tank to shock violently. Cracks allow water to infiltrate into the tank and sewage to spill out, necessitating the need to have them fixed immediately.

• Filling up Cracks on the Lid Cracks in the lid are the most typical type of problem.
• Cracks in lids are quite simple to repair.
• Whenever you see a broken lid, you should engage a professional to examine the rest of the tank to ensure that there are no more cracks.
• If you aren’t familiar with working around septic tanks, fumes can seep through the crack and create a potentially hazardous scenario.
• Repairing cracks in septic tanks is not necessarily neccessary in some cases.
• Large fractures or heaved concrete, on the other hand, may be so bad that the tank will need to be completely replaced.
• First, the tank is emptied and thoroughly cleaned.

Even if the tank is empty and clean, the contractor will need to employ specialized equipment to complete the job.

In addition, the tank is a biohazard and a potentially hazardous working environment.

The tank is examined for signs of leakage or other damage.

The fact that you never view the inside of your septic tank means that you won’t be able to detect cracks as soon as they appear in it.

If you notice sewage spilling into your yard or if you smell sewer gas outside or inside your home, you should contact a contractor to come out and assess the situation immediately.

Please visit the website for further details. It’s possible that you just have a blockage or a full tank. Alternatively, if a fracture appears in the tank, it should be repaired as quickly as possible.

5 Signs Your Septic Drainfield Has Stopped Working

Unlike municipal septic systems, which consist just of a subterranean tank that collects waste and water, residential septic systems are more complex. Water finally departs the tank through an outlet pipe and into a network of long perforated pipes known as the leech or drainfield after reaching the tank’s interior. The drainfield is equally as vital as, if not more so than, the septic tank in terms of wastewater treatment. In the event that this component of the system begins to fail, prompt action might mean the difference between relatively small repairs and a total drainfield replacement.

1. Drainage is being slowed.
2. As long as there is still any water in the pipes of the field, the drains in your home will continue to function, albeit at a slower rate.
3. The presence of obstructions in the inlet or outlet pipe, as well as several other septic problems that are less difficult to resolve than drainfield problems, might result in delayed drainage.
4. 2.
5. You may detect puddles or spongy and mushy ground all over the place if you look closely.
6. A backup occurs when the water level rises to a level that forces sewage up the input pipe and into the lowest drains in your house, which is known as a back up in the system.
7. 3.

Drainfield leaks can provide visible consequences on the surface if the drainfield leaks at a higher rate than typical or contains decaying material that is meant to remain in the tank.

Returning Flow is the fourth step.

If you presume that the tank just need pumping, the service technician may discover water and sewage entering the tank from the outlet in a reverse flow, which would indicate that the tank requires more than pumping.

The presence of reverse flow from the drainfield is an obvious indication that you want jetting or pipe replacement services.

The Development of Odors In the end, you can utilize your sense of smell to detect indicators of drainfield issue.

Any sewage or toilet scents, even if they are weak and difficult to detect, signal that you should have a professional evaluate your home immediately.

This is the most effective way.

Whenever we observe a decrease in drainage capacity, we will inform you of the problem and your choices for resolving it before the system stops processing waste altogether.

In addition, we’re pleased to address any of your questions or concerns concerning your drainfield or septic system in general with a professional response.

3 Septic Tank Problems & How to Avoid Them

A well-maintained septic system may last for several decades with minimal maintenance. Some homeowners, on the other hand, find themselves having to replace their systems sooner than they should have to because of problems with the tank or drain field that might have been prevented with appropriate septic tank care and installation. Learn about three typical septic tank problems and how to avoid them in order to avoid the need for costly tank replacement or repairs sooner rather than later. 1.

• A large number of fractures in your tank’s walls can allow sewage containing deadly germs to flow out of the tank and into your yard, creating a health concern to your family.
• While some septic tank fractures are unavoidable, such as those produced by a natural calamity such as an earthquake, others may be avoided by following the manufacturer’s recommendations for tank maintenance.
• In warmer weather, the earth around your tank is less likely to freeze and expand, reducing the likelihood of big cracks forming within your tank.
• Finally, do not place trees or other large plants with invasive root systems on or near your septic tank or in its vicinity.
• Problems with the Baffle Every septic tank is fitted with two devices known as inlet and outlet baffles, which are used to restrict the flow of wastewater into and out of the tank, respectively.
• The exit baffle aids in the removal of wastewater from the septic system and into the drain field, while also preventing the discharge of solid waste from the system.
• If your outlet pipe gets broken, solid waste will be able to enter your drain field more easily, disrupting the natural bacterial balance and lowering the effectiveness of your drain field.

Both of these baffles might get blocked if an excessive amount of solid waste collects inside your tank as a result of tank neglect or misuse.

Your septic tank professional will evaluate your baffles for damage that occurred during the pumping process and will repair or replace them if required to avoid future problems from arising in the future.

An overflowing septic tank begins to rise above ground level, rather than remaining underground where it belongs as it should.

Plastic and fiberglass tanks are more prone to floating than concrete tanks since these materials are lighter.

First, make sure that downspouts from your house gutter system are not directed toward your septic tank, where they might flood the soil surrounding it and increase the likelihood of it floating.

It is more likely that a tank will float if it is completely empty and the ground surrounding it is saturated with water.

If you are a homeowner who has a septic system, then you should follow these guidelines to avoid septic tank issues. Contact the septic tank experts at Pete’s Outflow Technicians to arrange a tank pumping service or a septic tank repair appointment right now.

6 Telltale Signs Your Septic System Is in Trouble (and You Need to Call in the Pros)

A well-designed septic system should provide you with years of trouble-free service as long as you utilize and maintain it appropriately. Yours might live as long as 30 years if you take good care of it. With that said, given the fact that it is underground, you might be wondering: How can you know when something is wrong with something? Here are the indicators that your septic system is having problems and that it is time to call in the professionals.

1. Water (or sewage) is backing up inside your home

It is possible for water—or a foul-smelling black liquid—to gurgle up into the drains in your kitchen or sink for a variety of reasons:

Your tank or drain field are too full

In your septic tank, as soon as unclean water and waste are introduced, the solids are separated from the liquids. The wastewater is finally forced out into a drain field, which is a network of subterranean tunnels or chambers where it may be collected and treated. Once there, any hazardous bacteria is either absorbed by the soil or digested by naturally occurring microorganisms in the environment. However, if your tank gets a large amount of water in a short period of time (for example, because of heavy rain or because you are using significantly more water than usual), the tank or the drain field may become overwhelmed.

A blocked pipe

The presence of a blocked distribution line somewhere between your house and your septic tank is another possible cause of water backing up into your home. Possibly you have a little child who has joyfully flushed an entire sock down the toilet, or perhaps you have a habit of flushing stuff down the toilet, such as not-so-flushable wipes. Take the initiative: Keep an eye on how much water you’re using. As suggested by Glenn Gallas, vice president of operations at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, “take brief showers, install low-flow toilets, and wash clothing over a few days rather than all at once.” Flush diapers, paper towels, tampons, or anything else that is not biodegradable down the toilet.

Indeed, over time, food waste might become clogged in your drain field due to the grinding it undergoes to become little bits.

2. Green, spongy grass around your septic tank

Although it may appear to be a terrible indicator, wilting grass on top of your septic tank is not always the case. (Because the dirt on top of your septic tank is typically not as deep as the soil over the rest of your lawn, it is easy for the grass there to get dry.) However, when the grass on top of your septic tank is prospering at a rate that is far higher than everywhere else in your yard, this is a warning signal. “Even if the environment appears to be lush and green, it is a clear indication that you are dealing with a serious situation,” Monell explains.

It essentially functions as fertilizer once it has escaped from your septic tank. Take the initiative: Regularly inspecting and pumping the system once a year can help you detect problems such as broken pipes, rust damage, and tank cracks early on. This will help you avoid costly repairs later.

3. You’ve got trees or shrubs near your system

Although it is admirable of you to desire to beautify the region, tree roots are naturally attracted to sources of water, which might include faulty pipes or even condensation. As a result of their need to obtain sustenance, they “may split septic tank pipes, enabling dirt to enter, or they can collapse the pipes completely,” according to Gallas. It is not necessarily better to have smaller shrubs because they have the potential to develop deep roots. Take the initiative: In order to plant a tree, first determine how tall it will be when it reaches maturity, and then keep it at least that distance away from your system.

Some trees, such as bamboo, pine, and walnut, have even more aggressive roots and will require you to plant them much further away from your septic system, so talk to your septic professional before you start digging.

Check the pipes every time your system is serviced to ensure they are not affected.

4. Water’s pooling in your yard

Gallas explains that a high water table or significant rainfall might occasionally fill the drain field, preventing the septic tank from emptying correctly. For those who believe severe rains are to blame for the little lakes in their yard, they might try to allow their septic system more time to catch up by using their water less frequently. (At long last, an excuse not to do the laundry!) However, if this does not eliminate the standing water, a plumber should be contacted. Take the initiative: Rainwater runoff should be directed away from your drain field.

If you have a sprinkler system, be certain that it is equipped with certified backflow devices.

5. A rotten egg smell

Yes, a foul sewage stench might be an indication that your system is malfunctioning. However, this is not always the case. In Monell’s opinion, there are numerous distinct reasons why you could be smelling septic gases: A dried-out wax seal on a toilet (which locks your toilet bowl to the floor) as well as a dry trap in a floor drain are examples of such things as this. (It is frequently filled with water, which prevents sewage gases from entering.) Take the initiative: According to Monell, if you have a chronic stench in your house, “the first course of action should be to examine all exposed fixtures, and if nothing is found, it should be followed up with a smoke test to detect leaks in the lines,” he adds.

6. Slow drains

Generally speaking, “slow drains are an indication that there is a blockage in the pipe itself that goes into the septic,” adds Monell. And, while you might be tempted to reach for the Drano or another drain cleaning, resist the temptation. Chemicals that are harsh on your pipes might cause them to corrode over time. In addition, chemical drain cleaners might destroy the beneficial enzymes and bacteria in your tank that aid in the breakdown of waste, according to Monell. Take the initiative: Make use of a natural product that contains bacteria and enzymes; the crud that has gathered within your pipes is delicious food for these organisms.

As Monell adds, “They digest the garbage and disseminate throughout your system, thoroughly cleansing it.” “On top of that, it’s entirely septic-safe.”

Do Septic Tanks Freeze? How to Fix a Frozen Septic Tank

When the weather turns chilly, septic systems might be put at risk. Heating your home during the winter months has no effect on your septic tank, which is hidden from view. Underground sewage lines are particularly vulnerable to freezing, however the tank and drain field can also become iced over if the proper safeguards are not followed. A frozen septic tank can result in fractured pipes and the need for expensive repairs. As a result, following septic tank maintenance ideas may be of assistance in extending the life of your septic tank.

How can You Tell if Your Septic Tank is Frozen?

The inability of your toilet, sink, or shower to work properly is a solid indicator that your septic tank is frozen. A backup occurs when the incoming liquid has nowhere to go as a result of the freezing of the water in the pipes. Flooding and cracking are two of the most severe consequences of this. It is important to contact a professional as soon as possible if you discover that your water is not draining correctly. If you discover that your septic system has become frozen, it is critical that you move quickly to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

How Can You Prevent a Frozen Septic Tank?

Maintaining adequate ground depth for your pipes is the most crucial thing you can do to protect them from freezing in the winter. To prevent frost from entering and inflicting long-term damage to your septic system, it is recommended that septic pipes be installed 18-24 inches deep in most cases. Of course, if your home has already been constructed, your pipes have already been installed; therefore, this recommendation is only applicable to newly constructed residences. Take into consideration the following suggestions for avoiding your septic tank from freezing, no matter where your pipes are located in your yard.

Protect your tank with mulch.

Covering the position of the septic tank with a layer of mulch will help to keep it from freezing. Please do not shovel snow away from the drainfield or tank if it snows during the winter. Extra insulation is provided by these layers, which prevent harsh elements from penetrating too far into the earth and damaging the pipes. Watch out for leaks. In cold weather, drippy faucets, toilets, pipes, and other plumbing fixtures connecting the home to the tank may ultimately freeze, resulting in backups and pipe bursts.

What Can Be Done to Fix Frozen Septic Tanks?

You’ve already discovered that your septic tank or pipes are frozen? To begin with, you might be tempted to try to defrost the frozen food yourself.

DO NOT …

• Run water through the pipes in the hopes of melting the ice that has formed. This will simply result in additional ice, which will exacerbate the situation. Salt or any other additions should be used in an attempt to melt the ice. Try to dig up or ignite a fire near the septic tank to see how far you can get.

If your septic system has been affected by the cold weather, the best course of action is to contact an expert. In many circumstances, specialized plumbers can assess the problem, defrost your pipes, and remedy the situation with little complications. Enlisting the assistance of a professional who is well-versed in their field may save you time, money, and problems.

who should you call for septic issues?

Septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services are provided by Norway Septic Inc., a service-oriented company devoted to delivering outstanding septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to households and business owners throughout the Michiana area. “We take great delight in finishing the task that others have left unfinished.” “They pump, we clean!” says our company’s motto. If you believe that your septic system is having troubles, or if you require septic replacement components such as septic filters, please contact us right once.

Our affiliate connections to these items generate a small profit for us if you decide to purchase them via our links. We opted to utilize affiliate links so that we could legally obtain product images and because not everyone is able to discover septic-friendly items on their own.

3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SEPTIC TANK BAFFLES

By Admin on November 12, 2020 Your efforts to live as environmentally conscious as possible, as a responsible homeowner, are likely already underway, with practices such as recycling, composting, and purchasing energy-efficient equipment among your list of accomplishments. As a septic tank owner, you want to be sure that anything you put into your tank and septic field is causing the least amount of ground contamination as is reasonably practicable. Fortunately, there are a number of modest improvements you can do immediately to make your septic system even more ecologically friendly than it already is.

1. Have your septic tank inspected and pumped on a regular basis.
2. A bigger septic tank with only a couple of people living in your house, for example, will not require pumping as frequently as a smaller septic tank or as a septic tank that must manage the waste products of multiple family members will require.
3. When in doubt about how often to pump your septic tank, consult with a professional for advice.
4. In addition to locating and repairing any damage, a professional can ensure that the septic field is in good working order and that your septic tank is functional, large enough to handle your family’s waste, and not causing any unwanted pollution in nearby ground water.
5. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet or down the toilet.
6. Items that are not biodegradable are unable to properly decompose in the septic tank and might cause the system to get clogged.
7. In addition to causing issues in your house, septic system backups can damage ground water in the area surrounding your septic field.

Towels made of paper Products for feminine hygiene Grease or fats are used in cooking.

grinds from a cup of coffee Even if you have a trash disposal, the food scraps that you flush down the drain and bring into your septic system may cause unanticipated harm to your plumbing system.

Food scraps can enhance the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater, which can disturb the natural bacterial balance of the septic tank, among other things.

Water conservation should be practiced.

Exceedingly large amounts of water use will interfere with the normal flow of wastewater from your home into your septic tank.

Limiting the amount of time you spend in the shower and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, as well as purchasing a smaller dishwasher and washing machine that use less water, are all simple strategies to reduce water use in your home.

The following are some basic steps you can take to make your septic system more ecologically friendly: save water, maintain your septic system and tank, and recycle wastewater. To get answers to any of your septic tank-related issues, get in touch with the experts at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.

The Dangers of a Damaged or Leaking Septic System

Written by Admin on November 12th, 2020. Your efforts to live as environmentally conscious as possible, as a responsible homeowner, are likely already underway, with practices such as recycling, composting, and purchasing energy-efficient equipment among your priorities. As a septic tank owner, you want to be sure that anything you put into your tank and septic field is causing the least amount of ground contamination as is reasonably feasible. Fortunately, there are a number of minor adjustments you can do immediately to make your septic system even more ecologically friendly, beginning now.

Make sure your septic tank is inspected and pumped at least once every three years.

For example, if you have a larger septic tank and only a couple of people living in your house, your septic tank will not require pumping as frequently as a smaller septic tank or a septic tank that must manage the waste products of multiple family members.

When in doubt about how often to pump your septic tank, consult with a professional for advice.

This is true regardless of how old or large your tank is.

Non-biodegradable items should not be flushed down the toilet.

Objects that are not biodegradable are unable to properly decompose in the septic tank and may cause the system to clog.

In addition to causing problems in your house, backups have the potential to damage ground water in the vicinity of your septic field.

Products for female hygiene Ghee, lard, or other oils Litter for cats grinds from a coffee maker If you have a trash disposal, the food scraps you dispose of down the drain and into your septic system may cause unanticipated harm to your septic system as well.

Additional to this, the food scraps enhance the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater, which might disrupt the normal bacteria balance in the septic tank.

It’s more environmentally friendly.

Cutting back on water consumption is one of the most straightforward methods to save money while also protecting the environment and keeping your septic system from being damaged.

Your tank will ultimately fill too rapidly as a result of this, and the layer of waste floating on top of the tank will be pushed into the septic field and, eventually, into the groundwater surrounding your field.

It is possible to make your septic system more ecologically friendly in a variety of ways, ranging from water conservation to regular maintenance of your septic system and tank. To get answers to any of your septic tank-related issues, reach out to the experts at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.