Septic tanks are designed to hold a certain amount of waste, as the bacteria inside the tank require that waste to survive. However, when that waste isn’t able to drain, it fills the tank and overflows into the area surrounding the septic tank. As one might expect, this isn’t a pretty sight.(1) At this time, you will be forced to call a Chattanooga septic tank pumping company to pump the tank. The company will remove the waste and clean your tank leaving it functioning optimally.
But how can you check your septic tank if it is full or not? Keep reading to learn how to inspect your septic tank and more.
What is a Septic Tank and How Does It Work?
A septic tank is a large container that collects and stores waste and wastewater from your home. The tank is installed outside your home and is connected to pipes and drains that bring in liquid waste from your sink, toilet, and bathroom. Some septic tank systems have a leach field, which acts as a disposal filter for organic material. Such a system has underground perforated pipes, allowing surrounding soil to absorb wastewater.
Typically, a septic tank holds sludge (solid waste), effluent, and scum. Effluent is the liquid waste that floats over the solid waste, while scum is a mixture of fats, oils cooking greases, and lighter wastes, that float on top. The tank has a high concentration of microorganisms/bacteria that break down the solid waste coming into the tank. As a result, the tank can stay for 3-5 years before it gets full, depending on its size.
How to Inspect Your Septic Tank?
There are different ways you can check whether your septic tank has a problem or is full. If you suspect that your septic tank has an issue, you should first inspect the area around it. Find out if there is effluent buildup or lush green vegetation around it. If that is the situation, know that your tank is full or has a problem.
If you don’t see effluent or lush green grass in the surrounding area, open the septic tank lid. If you find that your tank is full, you should call one of the best septic tank pumping companies in Chattanooga area to empty it. If you delay pumping, your septic tank system will likely get damaged and you may even be forced to replace the tank.
However, if you find the tank isn’t full and you still think that something is wrong with it, you should use a septic tank gauge or indicator tool to find out if your tank needs pumping or not. But it is advisable to hire septic tank pumping Chattanooga technicians to inspect the unit. After inspection, the team will pump your tank and clean it so it can function optimally for the next few years.
What Does a ‘Full’ Septic Tank Mean?
There can be three different definitions of a ‘full’ septic tank and no matter the situation, you are supposed to pump the tank to prevent damage. Here are the different definitions;
Normal Level – Typically, this means that the septic is filled to the level recommended by the manufacturer. However, the intake and outtake valves allow wastewater and waste to continue to flow into and out of the septic tank smoothly.
Overfilled tank – This is a point where the leach field stops accepting water. As a result, the water will back up into the tank, and the water level will rise to the top and start overflowing.
Accumulation of sludge – Sludge is the solid waste collected at the bottom of the septic tank. If the sludge reached a certain level in the septic tank, you should consider emptying it to prevent clogging of the drains. Typically, if the sludge level reaches around 50% of the tank volume or sludge and the scum depth is more than 25% of the liquid depth, you should call a
septic tank pumping Chattanooga TN company to pump it.
Signs Your Septic Tank is Full and Needs Pumping
Even if you don’t open your septic tank, there are different ways to know it is time to pump. Here are signs to look out for;
Slow drains – If sinks, toilets, or bathtub drains more slowly than usual, know that your septic tank is full. It can also be a sign of a clog within the septic system. If you have stayed for more than three years without pumping the tank and the system has not been having such an issue before, you should call experts to empty the tank.
Foul odors indoors and in the yard – If you experience a sewage smell indoors and (or) around the septic tank, know that your septic tank is almost full. Odors indoors are a result of sewage backflow, while foul odors outdoors are a result of sewage leakage or overflow.
Pooling of greenish water around the septic tank – If you notice pools of greenish water around your septic tank, please note that your unit is full and effluent/wastewater is overflowing. You should act fast before the water contaminates your underground water. You can also notice lush or healthy lawn around the tank and that is a result of effluent overflow.
Sewer Backups – You may also notice sewer backup. This sewer can back up in your kitchen sink or toilet and it can mess up your home. If you start hearing gurgling sounds, and later, experience sewer backup, know that your tank is full and you should hire the best-rated septic tank pumping Chattanooga company to pump it.
Trouble flushing - if your toilet has been functioning normally, but it starts to have flushing issues, that can be a sign that your septic tank might be full. It can also be a clog along the drains. Have experts inspect your septic system and pump it, if necessary.
Whenever your septic tank develops an issue or you suspect that it is full, you should not attempt to fix it on your own. Instead, you should call septic pumping experts to check the system. If it needs pumping, the team will handle the work. If needs repair or replacement, they will recommend a perfect solution.
For more information on Flush Fellas Septic & Excavating and our services, feel free to reach us via phone today: (423) 498-9839.
About the author
Charles Chandler
Charles Chandler is the founder of Flush Fellas, a septic and excavating company based in Chattanooga, TN. With a passion for providing top-notch services to his clients, Charles has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry. He has extensive knowledge of septic systems, excavation, and drainage solutions, which he uses to offer customized services that meet the specific needs of his clients. Charles is committed to providing exceptional customer service and building long-term relationships with his clients. He is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and innovations to ensure that Flush Fellas continues to offer the best services possible.
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