Homes not connected to a centralized sewer system need septic systems installed to dispose of waste properly. They contribute to the treatment and disposal of sewage that households produce. Septic systems, however, can break down just like any other household appliance, resulting in expensive repairs, environmental damage, and potential health hazards.
Most septic systems malfunction because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high groundwater tables. These conditions can cause hydraulic failures and contamination of nearby water sources.(1)
Foul Odor
A putrid odor is one of the most prominent indicators of your septic system malfunctioning. Septic systems are intended to collect, store, and treat wastewater; however, when they are not working correctly, they can emit a pungent odor reminiscent of rotten eggs and be unpleasant. It is a sign that your septic system needs attention if you notice this odor coming from your drains, toilets, or outside your home.
You can begin correcting this problem by examining the septic tank's lid and ensuring it is closed tightly. Odors may be able to escape the container if the cover is damaged or otherwise not secure. Next, you should have your septic tank pumped out, but only if the lid is in good condition. As time passes, solid waste tends to settle to the bottom of the tank, which results in a putrid smell. The accumulated waste will be removed by septic tank pumping Chattanooga, and the odor will be eradicated.
A Sluggish Drainage
If you find that water from your sinks, showers, and toilets drains more slowly than usual, this could indicate a problem with your septic system. Most of the time, clogs in the pipes that lead to the septic tank are the culprits behind slow drains. The accumulation of solid waste, grease, or other foreign objects can lead to clogs in the plumbing system.
Using a plunger to remove any formed clogs, you can begin fixing slow drains. If the plunger is unsuccessful in clearing the clogs, you can try clearing them with a drain snake instead. If neither of these solutions works, it is a sign that the clog is in the pipes that lead to the septic tank; in this case, you will need to hire a septic tank pumping Chattanooga professional to clean the lines for you so that the septic tank can continue to function correctly.
Standing Water
The presence of standing water in your yard is another indication that there is a problem with your septic system. A few issues can result in standing water, the most common of which are a full septic tank, a broken pipe, or a clogged drain field. If you find water pooling in your yard, you must act as soon as possible to avoid causing harm to the environment and potential health problems.
Finding out why there is water pooling in this area is the first step toward finding a solution to this problem. If the problem is caused by a septic tank overflowing, you will be required to opt for a septic tank pumping companies in Chattanooga area. If the problem is a broken pipe, you must have the line repaired or replaced, depending on which option is more cost-effective. If the problem is a clogged drain field, you will need to have the drain field cleaned or replaced, all these compared to the cost to pumping septic tank in chattanooga tn.
Sewage Backup
A sewage backup is one of the most severe warning signs that your septic system is malfunctioning. When wastewater from your septic system backs up into your home through the drains of your sinks, showers, or toilets, this is known as a sewage backup. This issue poses significant risks to your health and can cause considerable damage to your home.
If you find sewage backing up into your home, contact a professional as soon as possible. A professional will inspect your septic system to ascertain the root cause of the backup, and then the appropriate measures will be taken to resolve the problem. It may be necessary for the professional to chattanooga septic tank pumping, repair or replace a broken pipe, or install a new drain field. It will depend on the cause of the problem.
The Grass is Lush
It may appear counterintuitive, but having thick, healthy grass in your yard may indicate a problem with your septic system. When a septic system is working correctly, the grass above the drain field should have the same appearance as the grass found in the rest of the yard. On the other hand, if the grass directly above the drain field is unusually thick and green, this could indicate that the drain field is not functioning as it should, and that wastewater is not being absorbed into the soil as it should be.
It would be best to have a septic tank pumping Chattanooga TN professional examine your drain field to find a solution to this problem. They will figure out the root of the issue, which may be a clogged drain field, damaged pipes, or an overfilled septic tank. After that, they will rectify any problem that they discover. After that, the knowledgeable individual will carry out the necessary steps to repair or replace the drain field to ensure that the wastewater is absorbed appropriately.
Malfunctions in septic systems can present significant health risks, cause damage to the environment, and result in expensive repairs. It is essential to be able to recognize the signs of a septic system that is malfunctioning and to take immediate action to address the problem. A malfunctioning septic system can be identified by the following five signs: a foul odor, slow drains, standing water, sewage backup, and lush grass. All these signs are discussed in this article. You can protect your health, the environment, and your septic system from further damage if you take the necessary measures to address the problems brought to your attention.
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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