What Is Tank Alert For Septic System? (Perfect answer)

A septic tank alarm system is a device designed to monitor the water elevation inside the tank, and it alerts you when the water level in the tank is much higher or lower than it should be. An activated alarm can be an indication of a septic tank pump problem, but not always.

What does tank alert mean?

Most septic tanks have an alert when there’s too much water inside of it and could cause some kind of backup or overflow if not dealt with promptly. Your float sensor will trigger your alarm box to sound off once that event has been triggered by detecting how high up in the tank the level is reaching.

Why would a septic tank alarm go off?

Septic tanks typically come with alarms for a good reason. The septic alarms are meant to go off when the water level in your septic system’s pump tank is either too high or too low because either condition can cause damage to the system and should be prevented.

How does holding tank alarm work?

Holding tanks come with an alarm that will alert you when the tank is full and needs pumping. The frequency at which the alarm will go off will largely depend on factors such as the size of the tank and the number of occupants.

Why is my septic tank buzzing?

Humming: This is a common sound when the pump is running, but if the noise is constant, then the system might be running without actually moving any water. A common cause for this is the lack of a relief hole between the pump and the check valve, which will develop an air lock in your system.

What are the signs that your septic tank is full?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.

Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
You Hear Gurgling Water.
You Have A Sewage Backup.

How often should you empty your septic tank?

Do all septic tanks have alarms?

All septic systems that use a pump to move wastewater from a septic pump tank to a drainfield or mound have an alarm installed in the house. The alarm goes off when wastewater is not being pumped from the septic pump tank to the drainfield or mound.

Can I turn off septic tank alarm?

If the alarm happens to be going off, the best thing to do is to push the red button or switch on the alarm box. This will turn off the alarm. There should be a red light and a green light located somewhere on the alarm box. The green light means that the alarm has power and should always be on.

Will a flooded septic tank fix itself?

Most septic tanks are not damaged by flooding since they are below ground and completely covered. However, septic tanks and pump chambers can fill with silt and debris, and must be professionally cleaned. If the soil absorption field is clogged with silt, a new system may have to be installed.

How does tank alert XT work?

Tank Alert® alarms provide audio/visual warning of potential threatening liquid level conditions. The horn can be turned off, but the alarm beacon remains on until the condition is remedied. Once the condition is cleared the alarm will automatically reset.

What does it mean when your sump pump alarm goes off?

Sump pump alarms typically start to go off when there’s too much water in the area. If the sump pump alarm is functioning properly, but it’s going off too regularly, that means there is too much water pooling in your basement.

What do I do if My Septic Alarm is Going Off?

It is critical to maintain accurate records of all system maintenance, regardless of the type of maintenance that is conducted. In order to determine the amount and frequency with which bacteria additions should be introduced into the system, you can consult this information. Any inspection findings that are outside of the typical expectations for your system based on past records may also be used to identify potential problems before they become too difficult to handle or even impossible to detect.

Even though septic systems might be intimidating to some, your house will be more enticing to buyers if it comes with a complete set of thorough maintenance records, as opposed to a comparable property with an unknown septic system history.

There is an excessive amount of water being put into the septic system. This is the result of excessive water use, which might be caused by multiple loads of laundry, an excessive quantity of dishwashing, or a disproportionate number of long showers.

Somehow, groundwater is making its way into the system. If there is an excessive amount of standing water surrounding the septic tanks, whether generated by rain or another source, the water may seep into the tanks and cause the internal water level to rise.

It’s possible that one of the components of the septic system is malfunctioning. If anything goes wrong with your system — including the pump and floats — the alarm and timer will go off and the septic system will stop working correctly.

The best thing to do if your alarm goes off is to press the red button or turn on the alarm box. The alarm will be turned off as a result of this action. There should be a red light and a green light on the alarm box, which should be situated someplace on the unit. The green light indicates that the alarm is operational and should be left on at all times. The presence of a red light means that the alarm is getting a signal from the pump tank that the water level is increasing higher or decreasing lower than it should be.

If the breaker occurs to be tripped, look around the septic tanks to see if there is any standing water.
It is possible that the red light on the alarm box will go out on its own after allowing the septic system to operate for a couple of pump cycles (which should take approximately 10-15 hours).
Alternatively, if the red light remains illuminated, it indicates that the system is functioning properly and that it only needs to catch up with the excess water overflow in the tank.

To be clear, an alarm signal from the septic system does not always imply that sewage is about to back up into the house right away.
To book an appointment, please call (804) 581-0001 or send us an email through our contact page.
Explore our septic system web sites by clicking on the “Septic” navigation option in the top navigation bar.

Why is My Septic Tank Alarm Going Off?

What to Do If the Alarm Goes OffIf the alarm goes off, the best course of action is to press the red button or turn on the alarm box. By pressing this button, the alarm will be turned off. One or both of the lights on the alarm box should be illuminated in red and green, depending on its location. An illuminated green light indicates that the alarm is operational and that it should be kept on at all time. When the red light illuminates, it means that the alarm is getting a signal from the pump tank that the water level is increasing higher or decreasing lower than it should be.

Depending on whether or not the circuit breaker is activated, you should check to determine whether there is any standing water around the septic tanks.
Use water sparingly throughout this time period if as all possible.

If the red light remains illuminated, contact your local septic company (such as Miller’s) for emergency assistance.
Until a backup occurs, the alarm is set to sound at a time that will allow for 24-48 hours of normal consumption (though you should attempt to keep usage to a bare minimum).Do you require regular maintenance or emergency repair on your septic system?

Schedule an appointment by calling (804) 581-0001 or using our contact form. Want more information about septic systems? Septic systems may be found on our website, and in particular under the “Septic” navigation menu.

Weather issues

If it has been storming or if you have had a lot of rain in the last few days, the amount of water in your septic tank may be too much for it to handle. Standing water in the vicinity of septic systems is typically a source of problems for your septic tank. A drain field that has been saturated by rain will not enable waste water to pass through it. Overwatering your grass or draining your swimming pool in your yard might also result in a flooded area in your yard. You will need to make every effort not to use your water until the drain field is no longer inundated.

False Alarms Caused by Power Issues

Occasionally, a malfunctioning septic system alarm is caused by an electrical problem within your home or septic system. For example, your power may have flickered, resulting in a false alarm being triggered. It’s also possible that you’re experiencing electrical issues in your house, which is causing the alarm to sound.

Water Over Usage

How has your water consumption been lately? When washing double laundry, did you have a party, or did you take a long shower or bath to relax? All of this might result in more water being stored in the tank between pump cycles as a result. If it rains hard enough, the tanks may also leak, causing them to overflow and, eventually, triggering the alarm to sound.

Accidental Disconnection

The alert may ring if the pump’s power has been unintentionally unplugged by mistake. Immediately after hearing the alert go off, you should double-check that the connection is still secure and functional. Whether this is not the case, reconnect and see if the buzzer sounds again. If your septic alarm goes off again, it means that there is a problem with your pump tank someplace. Also see: How to Locate a Septic Tank.

What To Do When Your Septic Alarm Goes Off

It is important not to worry when your septic alarm sounds. The alarm signal is intended to alert you to the presence of a problem. In other words, you won’t be dealing with a sewage backlog in your house right away. However, you should still solve the problem as soon as possible because the alert is only valid for 24-48 hours on average. It indicates that either the water level is dangerously high or that the level is dangerously low. The alarm on your septic tank system should be equipped with a timer.

If, on the other hand, the system is damaged, the timer will be unable to function as intended.

It may take several pumping cycles to get the level back to normal, which is why backups may occur in some cases.

You should not worry if your septic alarm goes off. In order to alert you of a problem, the alarm signal is activated. In other words, you won’t be dealing with a sewage backlog in your house right away. Although the warning is normally valid for 24-48 hours, you should still fix the issue as soon as possible. It indicates that the water level is either dangerously high or dangerously low. A timer should be installed on your septic tank system alert. This timer determines when the pump begins to circulate wastewater down your drain field and into your sewer system. The timer, on the other hand, will not function effectively if the system is damaged. The water in your system has nowhere else to go but into your tank if there is a lot of water flowing through it between pumping cycles. As a result, backups can occur since it can take many pumping cycles to restore the level to normal. You should do the following if your alarm goes off:

When this occurs, we also urge that you reduce your water consumption. Normal operation of a sewer system is to pump waste water out onto a leach field, which is also known as effluent. If it is overburdened, it will require additional time to catch up.

Too much water use will prevent the septic system from having a chance to catch up. Cut back on the amount of dishwashing you do, and try to take a brief shower instead of a long one. You might be interested in learning more about:How to determine if you have a septic tank.

Maintaining your Septic Tank

Keep your septic tank in good working order, and you will reduce the likelihood of your septic tank alarm being activated. This entails inspecting the system for obstructions. If you discover a blockage, you will want to use a chemical drain opener that is safe for septic systems or a plumbing snake. To guarantee that the blockage is properly dealt with, you will want to hire a professional out to inspect and clear your drain. Over time, clogs can cause irreversible damage to your pump tank. You’ll want to be certain that you know how old your septic tank is before proceeding.

If your tank is reaching the end of its 15-year lifespan, you should consider having a new septic tank installed.
To guarantee that you do not experience any problems with your pump tank, it is recommended that you schedule an inspection once a year with a professional who is familiar with septic tank maintenance procedures.

They will also inspect the alarm to ensure that it is in correct working condition and that it is receiving the necessary power supply to operate.
As a rule, it is advised not to ignore your septic system warning because it might be an indication of a more serious problem.
Call us right away to schedule an appointment so that we can solve any pump tank difficulties you may be experiencing.

What are Septic Alarms and Do I Need One?

As a homeowner, it is critical to ensure that your septic system is in proper working order. Having difficulties with your septic system may be extremely stressful, as well as potentially disruptive to your home and way of life. A septic alarm can be of use in this situation. A septic alarm is a device that lets you monitor the health of your septic tank. The alarm will sound if the water level in the tank becomes too low or too high for a healthy tank to function properly. When your septic alarm goes off, it does not always indicate that there is an emergency situation on your hands.

It is important to know when your septic alarm goes off because it indicates that you should make repairs or other modifications to your septic system.
A expert will be able to assist you in determining exactly what is wrong with the system and how to correct it.

Their services include the repair and replacement of faulty parts, as well as advice on how to make those fixes last longer.
Septic system inspections should be performed on a regular basis in addition to the installation of an alarm system for the system.

If you do not already have a septic alarm, you may want to consider having one installed by a professional. It is an extremely useful tool for keeping track of the health of your septic system. To find out more about septic alarms and how to use them, get in touch with us right now!

Septic Tank Alarm Systems

The proper operation of your septic system is critical to your overall well-being as a homeowner, Having difficulties with your septic system may be extremely stressful, as well as potentially disruptive to your home and way of living. Septic alarms can be useful in this situation. It is possible to monitor the condition of your sewage system by installing a Septic Alarm system. A water level that is either too low or too high for a healthy tank will trigger the alarm, which will sound. When your septic alarm goes off, it does not always signify that there is an emergency situation on the premises.

It is important to know when your septic alarm goes off because it indicates that you should make repairs or other modifications to your septic system immediately.
A expert will be able to assist you in determining exactly what is wrong with your system and how to correct it.
Their services include the repair and replacement of faulty parts, as well as advice on how to ensure that the repairs last.

Septic system checks should be performed on a regular basis in addition to the installation of an alarm system for the tank.
Having a septic alarm installed by a professional is recommended if you do not already have one.
Get in touch with us immediately if you want to learn more about septic alarms and how to utilize them!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE CORRECT SEPTIC ALARM

Outdoor septic tank alarms are constructed with a waterproof casing that may be put outdoors on a post, the side of a building, or the side of a home, depending on the weather conditions. A float switch goes from the inside of the septic tank to the alarm box, which may be located anywhere on the tank’s exterior. When the water level in the septic tank rises over a certain level, the float switch will activate an alert light and buzzer.

PEDESTAL SEPTIC TANK ALARMS

Septic tank alarms mounted on pedestals are also suitable for outdoor installation. It is possible to install these alarms straight into the ground because they are supplied with their own pedestal post. These allow for a very simple and clean installation process. A float switch goes from the inside of the septic tank to the alarm box, which may be located anywhere on the tank’s exterior. When the water level in the septic tank rises over a certain level, the float switch will activate an alert light and buzzer.

INDOOR SEPTIC TANK ALARMS

Indoor setpic tank alarms are meant to be put inside the home, garage, or utility shed to protect the contents of the tank. There is no weatherproof casing on these alarms, therefore they must be protected from the elements. A float switch goes from the inside of the septic tank to the alarm box, which may be located anywhere on the tank’s exterior.

When the water level in the septic tank rises over a certain level, the float switch will activate an alert light and buzzer. These alarms are equipped with auxilary connections that may be used to connect to a remote accessory, such as an external buzzer, light, or auto-dialer, if desired.

WIRELESS SEPTIC TANK ALARMS

Alarms with wireless capabilities are available from us. The first is our VersAlarm Wireless System, which is a wireless alarm system. This features a wireless float switch that has a range of up to 3250 feet and can transfer data to the alarm box wirelessly. This can spare you from having to dig a hole through your lawn, landscaping, or driveway in order to install a cable. The second option available to us is a WiFi-enabled alarm system. A wireless indoor alarm that connects to your existing wireless network is what this device is designed to be.

How a Septic Tank Alarm Works

A septic alarm provides you with early warning of potentially serious problems. iStock/Getty Images image courtesy of Katarzyna Bialasiewicz/iStock An effluent pump is required in any typical septic system in which the drain field is located at a higher elevation than the tank in order to move wastewater from the tank to the drain field. The pump is controlled by a float switch located inside the tank, and an additional float switch runs an alarm that sounds when the water level in the tank drops below a certain minimum.

The Need for a Septic Alarm

Septic systems that are gravity-fed transport waste from the house to a holding tank where solids settle to the bottom and overflows leave through an outlet onto the drain field. Whenever a pump is required to convey waste to a higher elevation – as is frequently the case – the pump is activated by a float, similar to the one found in a toilet tank. Pump or float failure can cause major difficulties, such as a sewage backlog in the home or an overflow of the tank’s holding tank. If the system generates an alarm, the problem may be identified and remedied as soon as possible, avoiding the worst repercussions.

Alarm Operation

Septic systems that are gravity-fed transport waste from the home to a holding tank where solids settle to the bottom and the overflow leaves via an outlet onto a drainage field. Whenever a pump is required to move waste to a higher elevation – as is frequently the case – the pump is activated by a float that is identical to the one found in a toilet bowl. A failure of either the pump or the float might result in catastrophic consequences, such as a tank overflow or a sewage backlog in the house.

What the Alarm Means

When a septic alarm goes off, it typically signifies that the water level in the tank has risen too high, which indicates that the pump is not working properly. It’s possible that the circuit breaker that controls it has tripped, and all you have to do is reset it to correct the situation. Another possibility is that the pump is blocked and has to be repaired, or that a continuous leak is forcing it to work too hard as a result of its overwork. The worst-case situation is that the drain field becomes clogged, and the pump is unable to rid the tank of waste materials.

Because this may occur during a period of heavy rain, the drain field is saturated; you should turn off the pump and avoid from using the plumbing until it has dried up completely.

Aerobic Septic Systems

In an aerobic septic system, compressed air is pumped through sewage in order to encourage decomposition. This sort of system also requires an alert to function properly. It is regulated by a switch that is sensitive to air pressure, and when it trips, it typically indicates that the compressor pump is not working properly. It is common for this sort of system to contain a separate storage tank for treated water as well as a pump that directs the water to pop-up sprinklers that distribute it over the drain field.

Is Your Septic System Alarm Going Off

septic alarm systems are designed to keep track of the water levels in the septic tank. They are intended to notify the user if the water level becomes too high or excessively low. As a result, if your alarm goes off or if you notice a red light on your alarm, this might signal that the water level is greater than typical. It is also possible that the problem is caused by a high level of sludge in the tank, in which case septic tank cleaning is usually sufficient to resolve the situation.

Why does the water level increase?

On most septic tanks, a timer has been built, which permits the pump to discharge wastewater into the leach field at predetermined intervals. The timer regulates the periods during which the pump is allowed to discharge wastewater from the system. If a large amount of water is utilized in between pumping cycles, the water has nowhere to go and will continue to rise within the tank until it is exhausted. Is your septic system sounding the alarm? Allow our septic system professionals to assist you.

What are the reasons for high water level in the tank?

It is possible that a high quantity of water in your septic tank system is caused by a variety of factors.

Failure of the sewage system to get electricity – Check your switchboard to verify whether the septic system is receiving power

Extreme water use (long showers, many laundry loads, and using the dishwasher more frequently than normal) might cause an overabundance of water to enter the septic system. Groundwater or rainfall can also collect around the septic system and leak into the tank
This is known as a backflow. It’s possible that the effluent filter is blocked. The effluent filters must be cleaned every six months, or sediments would collect in the filters and cause them to clog. This reduces the rate at which wastewater exits the system, resulting in an increase in the volume of water in the septic tank. Pumps are used in certain septic tanks to transport effluent to secondary wastewater treatment facilities. If the pump fails, the amount of water in the tank will rise as a result. The leach field can get blocked with effluent, which can cause the water level to rise as a result. It is also possible for the water level to rise due to mechanical faults with the air compressor, float switch, or other components. A high amount of sludge in the system can also be a contributing factor to this problem, which can be resolved by septic tank cleaning.

This problem can occur in anaerobic treatment systems owing to a malfunctioning aeration mechanism or a high water level in the aeration tank, among other things.

The frequency with which my septic system should be examined is not specified. What is the best way to determine when to pump out a septic tank?

What to do if the septic alarm goes off?

This should turn off the alarm if you press the red button on the alarm box or turn it on with the switch on it. Allow for 10-15 hours of continuous operation of the septic system, and the red light may turn off automatically. Take note that you should use less water during this period to assist the system in lowering the water level. If the red light turns off, this indicates that your system is operating properly.

Help – The red light is still on!

If the red light on your alarm won’t turn off, don’t get too worked up. Please contact Express Wastewater so that we can assist you in resolving the issue in a timely and professional manner. Emergency situations are given top priority, and we provide services across South-East Queensland. If your septic system requires immediate attention, please call us on 1300 722 517 or complete our online job booking form. When your septic alarm goes off, what should you do? Allow our professionals to assist you.

Not what you’re looking for?

More information about septic, sewage, and wastewater systems may be found by using the search box provided below.

Why Use Express Wastewater Solutions?

We are able to offer the optimum solution for your wastewater needs since we are not a manufacturer and are not bound to a certain technology.

EXPERT TEAM

Because we do this on a daily basis, we have built a close-knit experienced team that can handle every step of the process – from blueprints and council paperwork through excavations, electrical, and plumbing – without sacrificing quality. We take care of everything to ensure that the procedure is as stress-free and speedy as possible.

FREE 30 MINUTE WASTEWATER CONSULTATION

A free 30-minute phone consultation with one of our specialists will guide you through the process if you have never installed a home sewage treatment plant before
Thus, we provide this service to guide you through the process.

STREE FREE INSTALLATIONS

The entire wastewater installation process is handled by us
We can deal with all of the trades, the municipality, and everything else, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

QUALIFIED, LICENSED PROFESSIONALS

Have confidence in the fact that Express is a team of certified and insured specialists that will do your task correctly the first time

FREE EXPERT ADVICE

Not sure which system is best for you, or want to know if your current system is up and running efficiently? Simply give one of our knowledgeable wastewater specialists a call, and they will be more than delighted to assist you

SAVE UP TO $10,000 ON REPAIRING YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM

Having trouble deciding on a system, or wanting to know if your current system is up and running efficiently? Simply contact one of our knowledgeable wastewater specialists, who will be more than pleased to assist you.

Tank Alert® I

Tank Alert® alarms give an audible and visual warning when a potentially dangerous liquid level condition is detected. When a potentially dangerous liquid level condition exists in lift pump chambers, sump pump basins, holding tanks, sewage treatment, agricultural and other non-potable water applications, the Tank Alert® I interior alarm system gives an audio/visual warning of the situation.

If an alert situation is detected, the horn will blow and the alarm light will illuminate. It is possible to turn off the horn, but the alert light will stay on until the situation is rectified.

Features

Using Tank Alert® alerts, you may receive an auditory and visual warning when a potentially dangerous liquid level is reached. When a potentially dangerous liquid level condition exists in lift pump chambers, sump pump basins, holding tanks, sewage treatment, agricultural and other non-potable water applications, the Tank Alert® I interior alarm system gives an audio/visual warning of the possible danger. An alert situation is signaled by the horn, which is activated by an alarm light. It is possible to turn off the horn, but the alert light will remain on until the situation is rectified.

Options:

For high or low level warnings, alternate float switch types are available. It is available in two major voltages: 120 VAC and 230 VAC (the 230 VAC variant is neither listed or certified by the UL).

UL Listed, CSA Certified

(Alarm state) Primary: 120 VAC at 50/60 Hz, 5 watts maximum
Secondary: 12 VAC at 50/60 Hz

VOLTAGE FOR 230 VAC MODEL:

(Alarm situation) Primary: 120 VAC at 50/60 Hz, 5 watts maximum

Secondary: 12 VAC at 50/60 Hz.

ALARM ENCLOSURE:

NEMA 1 metal enclosure measuring 6 x 4 x 2.5 inches (15.24 x 10.16 x 6.35 cm)

ALARM HORN:

CABLE DE PURPOSE:

FLOAT SWITCH CONNECTION TERMINAL:

Only for use with a float switch connection. Do not use your strength. (The voltage between the terminals is 12 VAC.) 5 ohms is the maximum line impedance for the starting device)

FLOAT SWITCH:

SJESignalMaster® control switch with mounting clamp
SJESignalMaster® control switch with mounting clamp

Flexible 18 gauge, 2 conductor (UL) SJOW cable with a length of 15 feet (4.57 meters) and water resistance (CPE)
A high-impact, corrosion-resistant polypropylene housing with a diameter of 2.74 inches and a length of 4.83 inches (7.0 cm and 12.3 cm) is used in sewage and water up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius).

What do I do when my septic alarm goes off?

Control switch with mounting clamp for SJESignalMaster®; Flexible 18 gauge, 2 conductor (UL) SJOW cable with a length of 15 feet (4.57 meters) and water-resistant (CPE) coating. A high impact, corrosion resistant polypropylene housing with a diameter of 2.74 inches and a length of 4.83 inches (7.0 cm x 12.3 cm) is used in sewage and water up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius).

Why Do I Need an Alarm for my Septic Tank?

Do you want to have piece of mind knowing that your septic pump is in perfect functioning condition? When the water level in the tank reaches an unsafely high or low level, an alarm system will sound to alert you. A high level alert might warn that an excessive amount of water is being introduced into the system. This might be caused by excessive use in the laundry, dishwashing, or taking extended showers, among other things. A running toilet is a common problem, and detecting this problem early on may save you a lot of money on your water bill.

In order to avoid premature drainfield failure as well as premature pump failure, a watertight septic tank that does not allow water penetrationseepage must be installed and maintained.
It’s possible that you have a pump that has reached the end of its usable life, or that you have a float malfunction.

Low-level warnings might be an indication that your pump is not shutting down correctly.
Septic tank leakage can potentially cause a low level alarm to go off in your home.
Will the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you’ve put in the proper system to warn you when there’s an issue be beneficial to your family?

What to Do When Your Septic Alarm Goes Off (With Troubleshooting Tips)

Septic systems with pumps are often equipped with some sort of warning mechanism to notify the homeowner if something is amiss. The alarm will sound if the water level in the pump tank becomes too high, or in rare cases, dangerously low. The majority of alarms will have a red light and a beeping sound. If the alarm sound is set to “quiet,” just the red light will be illuminated. When the septic alarm goes out, you should immediately turn it off. Then check to determine if the pump is receiving power from the electrical system.

The pump will complete a few of cycles and may be able to remove some of the extra water.
As a homeowner, you should be familiar with the operation of your septic system in order to identify and comprehend fundamental problems.

You’re probably thinking something along the lines of mine: Don’t I already have enough on my plate trying to figure out why my smoke detector is blaring or chirping intermittently?
We had just moved into our new home in Lewes.

So I went on the internet, chatted to a few neighbors, and ultimately obtained the services of a specialist, and the following is what I discovered. Take a moment to consider why there is an alert in your septic system.

What is a Septic Tank Alarm, and How It Works?

There is just one major function of a septic tank alarm: to notify you that the water level within the pump tank has risen to an unsafe level. Water will be removed from your tank every several hours, depending on the size of your tank, the amount of water you use, and a few other technical considerations. Modern septic systems include a timer built into the control box that determines when and for how long water should be evacuated from the system. Pumps are often configured to cycle twice or more times per day, which should be adequate to meet the needs of the majority of households.

Pumping an excessive amount of water into the drain field might result in harm.
The water level will rise if there is more water than normal in the reservoir.
When the water level becomes dangerously high, an alarm will sound to alert you.

In the event that everything is functioning properly, you may be confident that the alarm will sound to alert you of a potential problem.
If the pump does not have any water to push out, it has the ability to do harm to it.

Get to Know Your Septic System

There is just one major purpose for a septic tank alarm: to notify you that the water level within the pump tank has risen to an unsafe level. The pump will remove wastewater every several hours, depending on the size of your tank, how much water you use, and a few other technical considerations. Modern septic systems are equipped with a timer, which is located within the control box, to determine when and for how long water should be pumped. Pumps are often configured to cycle two or more times per day, which should be adequate to meet the needs of the majority of households.

Too much water pumped into the drain field might result in damage to the drain field.
It is certain that the water level would rise if there is more water than normal.
A warning signal will sound if the water level becomes dangerously high.

Providing that everything is functioning properly, you may be confident that the alarm will sound if there is a possible problem.

Although the alarm often sounds when the water level is too high, it may sometimes sound when the water level is too low. It is possible that the pump will be damaged if there is no water to push out.

Two Main Things toDo When the Alarm Goes Off?

First and foremost, there is no need to panic. Today’s septic systems are constructed in such a manner that you have ample time to cut water use and detect any issues prior to the system overflowing completely. The warning indicates that the water level has been raised, not that it would explode in a few seconds as some people believe. When the septic alarm goes off, do the following procedures immediately:

In the first place, there is no need to be concerned. Today’s septic systems are constructed in such a manner that you have sufficient time to minimize water use and detect any problems prior to the system overflowing completely. A raised water level indicates that the alarm is sounding, not that the water will burst in a few seconds’ time. The following things should be taken if your septic alarm goes off:

Why is My Water Level Elevated?

The majority of the time, your septic system alarm will sound because the level of water in your tank is more than it should be, according to the manufacturer. Let’s take a look at the most typical reasons behind this.

Power Problem

Electricity is used to run the pumps. Your pump will not be able to extract water from the tank if there is a power outage or any other power problem. In order to determine whether or not there is electricity to your sewage system, check the primary circuit breaker for your septic system. Check the pump circuit breaker in your control box if you have one; otherwise, proceed to step 3. That is also subject to error. This was, in fact, the source of my frustration. The system was never turned on for the first two weeks we were in our home, which was apparently due to a faulty installation by the electrician who installed it.

Also, make sure the outlets where the pump is connected in are working properly.

The problem is with the pump if the electricity is working, but the pump itself is not functioning properly.

Increased Water Usage

You have a set capacity for your septic system, and the pump is configured to push water out in accordance with that capacity. If you are using a significant amount of water in comparison to normal, the level may climb. Performing an excessive amount of laundry, taking repeated showers if you have guests, or even cleaning a large number of dishes might raise the water level. The same may be said about excessive cleaning that necessitates the use of a lot of water. You are familiar with the amount of water you typically consume, and you can readily identify this as a possible cause for the alert to sound.

Heavy Rain or Floods

You have a set capacity for your septic system, and the pump is configured to push water out of the system depending on that capacity. In the event that you use a significant amount of water over and above your normal usage, the level may rise. Extreme laundry, regular showers if you have guests, or simply cleaning a large number of dishes can all contribute to a high water level on your property.

Extreme cleaning that consumes a large amount of water falls into this category as well. It is easy to notice the amount of water you consume on a regular basis as a possible cause for the alarm to sound. Fortunately, after you return to normal usage, this issue should correct itself.

Clogged Effluent Filter

Cleaning the effluent filter on a regular basis, generally twice a year, is recommended. Essentially, the filter serves as a screening barrier to reduce the volume of solid material that is discharged from a tank into a drain field, which in my instance is an underground system. On the tank’s discharge port is a filter that collects any debris. Solid waste might block the filter and cause the water to flow more slowly. The extra water will remain in the tank for a longer period of time than it should, and additional water will be added, raising the level.

Reduce water use and wait for a few pump cycles to check whether the problem has been resolved.

Pump or Float Failure

Some septic systems, such as mine, are fitted with submersible pumps that, in addition to the timer, are controlled by floats that control the pump. After reaching a certain height, the float will record the change and activate a pump to remove the water. The float is used to temporarily override the timer until the effluent in the tank returns to its regular level. If the float is not functioning properly, it will be unable to control the pump, resulting in the water level rising. The same may be said for a malfunctioning pump.

The pump must be maintained on a regular basis in order for the system to operate efficiently.

Find the control panel and turn it on. Change the mode of the switch to manual
If the pump is turned on and the water level lowers, the float is the source of the problem. This indicates that the pump is not starting properly

The fault is most likely the pump itself.

My view is that pump or float difficulties are not simple DIY fixes, and I would recommend consulting a professional.

What About the Blower Alarm

If you have a blower system, you may also have to deal with an additional alert to worry about. Aerobic septic tanks, such as mine, rely on a blower mechanism to pump air into the treatment tank throughout the treatment process. By maintaining microorganisms that digest waste, this system assures the creation of oxygen necessary for the system’s operation. Solids would not become liquids if this mechanism were not in place. If your blower alarm is going off, it’s possible that your blower is not working.

Closing Thoughts

It’s crucial to note that some of these issues might be ongoing in nature. Consider upgrading your septic system, replacing any damaged components, or having them repaired if you discover that they are occurring too frequently. In any case, discussion with a specialist is required. These common issues frequently arise when there is a significant shift in the amount of water being consumed. Some new residents have just moved in, for example. Everyone now takes advantage of the shower, laundry, and dishwasher.

There is one thing that must be avoided at all costs: turning a blind eye to the situation.

It has the potential to cause the drain field to overflow.

Other possibilities include that sewage backs up into the home through the pipes, however this is not as common. All of these problems will cost a lot and will be more harder to solve than any of the smaller problems which contribute to rising sea level now.

Update: My Septic Alarm is Going Off Again

The alarm went off again one week after the septic system professional arrived to troubleshoot our situation. For starters, it was because the pump breaker was set to “off” that the problem occurred. The technician suspected that the electrician who had installed it may have forgotten to turn it back on once he had finished. He manually pumped the system and believed that this had resolved the issue. The alarm has sounded once more, but this time the pump breaker has been activated. I also tested the primary circuit breaker, which was found to be operational.

It should most likely be a problem with the pump or float, which is strange considering that this is a brand new system.

When the situation is resolved, I will make an update to this post.

Elevated water
A control box indicating that the pump breaker has been activated

Technician Came to Troubleshoot the Problem

He arrived and determined that there is nothing wrong with the septic tank system. According to him, we may have a leak somewhere in the home, most likely in one of the toilets. He physically pumped it till the water level had dropped to a safe level. I’m afraid I’ll have to disagree with him on this point. I checked all three of our toilets and found no signs of a leak at all. This septic system was intended to handle eight people, and there are presently just two individuals that live in the house.

In my opinion, the alert should not be turned off even if there is a minor leak.

I’ll add any new information to this page when it becomes available.

Update: A Manager Asked the Technician to Come Again

Following my conversation with the builder, the technician was requested to return to confirm that everything was functioning properly. In my previous statement, I said that there was no leak anyplace in the house. As a result, the problem had to be something else, and if we don’t repair it, it may happen again. He came to the conclusion that there could be a problem with the amount of wastewater that is discharged with each pumping cycle. Consequently, he raised that quantity a bit by changing the effluent control valve, which is represented in the illustration below.

Despite the fact that we recently used much more water due to the visit of my son and his girlfriend, I have not experienced any problems since then.

I’d want to express my gratitude to Scott for leaving a comment below and alerting me that I had neglected to update this section of the post. Posts related to this one:

Can my toilet cleaner cause damage to my septic system
Can these common household items cause damage to my septic system
Why Do I Need a Mound Septic System?

What is a Septic Tank Alarm System & What To Do If It’s Going Off.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase a product after clicking on one of our links, we may receive a commission or free product from the firms featured in this post. Amazon is a good illustration of this. Depending on where your property has a septic tank put, there may be an alarm system installed for the tank anywhere in the house. What these alerts are used for and how they work will be discussed in greater detail in the following article.

Need Help With Your Septic Alarm or System Repair

So, what exactly is a septic tank alarm system, exactly? A septic tank alarm system is a device that monitors the water level inside the tank and sends you an alert if the water level rises higher than it should be. If the water level rises higher than it should be, this could be an indication of a problem with the septic tank pump, which is required in some systems. The effluent (wastewater) from the tank to the drainage field does not always require the use of a pump in all systems. A pump is not required in systems that are designed to siphon wastewater downhill from the tank to the drainage area utilizing gravity as the primary means of transport.

If you want to understand more about whether or not your septic system requires electricity, check out this article.

How Does a Septic Tank System Alarm Function?

Let’s take a closer look at how a septic tank system alarm operates in order to better grasp what it is and how it functions. It is possible that your Septic Tank Alarm System will be equipped with a variety of various forms of notifications, depending on what you have installed. The alarm may contain a green/red light, an audible alarm or buzzer, or a combination of the three options listed above. It is required in certain towns that alarms be connected to the municipal grid in order for authorities to monitor malfunctioning garbage systems.

Septic Tank Alarm Systems for Electrical-Based Pumps

A Septic Tank System alarm is activated by the placement of a float inside the tank, which monitors the amount of water in the tank. Consider this to be analogous to the float at the bottom of your toilet tank. The float in your toilet tank monitors the amount of water in your tank, and when it reaches a certain level, it should shut off the water supply so that no more water goes into the tank. Similarly, the water level is monitored by the float on your alarm in a septic system, and the alarm will sound when the water level in the tank has increased to a predetermined level, signalling that there is a possible problem with the system.

Septic Tank Alarms for Aerobic Systems Compressor Pumps

Using a float, which is put within the tank to monitor water levels, a Septic Tank System alert may be activated. Consider this to be analogous to the float at the bottom of your toilet tank’s water tank. If you have a float in your toilet tank, it is responsible for monitoring the amount of water in your tank and turning off the water when it reaches a predetermined level.

As in a conventional system, the water level is monitored by a float on your alarm, which is designed to alert you when the level in your tank has increased to an abnormally high level, suggesting the presence of an issue with the system.

Why Would You Need a Septic Tank Alarm System?

So, now that you have a clear grasp of what a Septic Tank Alarm System is and what it performs, you may be wondering why you would need one. Keep in mind that the alarm is intended to notify you of a problem with your septic system that might lead to more serious issues down the line if not addressed. The purpose of the warning is to have the problems resolved before anything catastrophic occurs. For illustration purposes, consider a pumping system that is powered by electricity and is responsible for pumping effluent (wastewater) from a septic tank upwards to a drainage area.

(This is very frequent.) Consequently, a pump powered by electricity is installed in the tank to either pump the water out of the tank at certain intervals or when the water level reaches an established level.

In case the pump fails for whatever reason, the alarm will sound to inform you that there is too much water in the tank, resulting in an increase in the water level in the tank and an alarm being triggered.

The Alarm in an Aerobic System

Additionally, the Alarm in an Aerobic System will notify you if the compressor pump is not functioning correctly, which means that sufficient air is not being introduced into system to allow for decomposition of the waste to occur. In the event that your system has any form of pump component, it is a good idea to have a functional alarm installed.

Where is Your Septic Tank Alarm System Located?

Additionally, the Alarm in an Aerobic System will notify you if the compressor pump is not functioning correctly, which means that sufficient air is not being introduced into system to allow for decomposition of the waste to take place. In the event that your system has any form of pump component, it is a good idea to have a working alarm installed.

On the tank’s side, it says: The connection is made to the side of your house. You have a basement
In a utility closet, if you will

What does it Mean if My Septic Tank Alarm is Going off?

What does it imply if the alarm on your septic tank is sounding off? Essentially, if your septic tank alarm is going off, it means that the alarm is detecting an incorrect water level in the septic tank, a problem with the pump in the septic tank for electrically assisted pumping systems, or a problem with the air pressure in the compressor pump of your Aerobic Septic System. But don’t be alarmed; there are a few other possibilities for why your alarm is going off than a complete pump failure.

What to Do if Your Septic Alarm is Going Off?

When an alarm goes off, you undoubtedly want to know what to do next to assist diagnose the potential problem with your septic tank system. Here’s what you should do next. As soon as you hear your alarm go off, take the following steps:

Locate the alarm
If you are unsure of its placement, refer to the section above for some frequent locations for septic tank alarms. If your alarm system includes an audible alarm, it should feature a button to stop the alert or to turn on the alarm system. This button can be used to turn off the alarm system. It is important to note that the Red Light on the alarm will remain illuminated until the problem is rectified. The silent button just prevents you from going insane as a result of the noise. When it comes to wiring your septic alarm system, it should be connected to a different breaker than the actual pump that it is monitoring. So the next step is to identify the pump’s circuit breaker and check sure it hasn’t been tripped by anything. Some of these breakers can trip or be switched off by mistake, preventing the pump from going on and pumping out the remaining liquid in the storage container. It is possible that this might cause the water level to increase over the acceptable level, causing the alarm to sound. Simply re-energize your circuit breaker and the pump should begin to function again, draining the water from the access line again. It is possible that one of the floats will have a fault, causing you to receive a false positive on the water level. Assuming you are comfortable doing so, check to see that your floats are securely attached and operating correctly
If you discover that your pump or aerator is not running properly, you can either repair them yourself or contact a local septic firm for assistance.

How to Test Your Septic Alarm?

To ensure that your septic tank alarm is functioning properly, it is recommended that you test it on a regular basis. To be on the safe side, I would recommend once every six months; obviously, the more frequently, the better.

The process of testing your septic tank alarm is typically rather simple. Each septic tank alarm should be equipped with a test switch, which you may use to quickly check the alarm’s functionality. To see how to test your septic tank alarm, watch the video below.