After struggling for quite some time with our septic system, I realized there might be a problem with the way we were approaching various aspects of plumbing. For starters, we didn't think too much of putting things down the garbage disposal, which created some serious issues later on down the road. We were left struggling with drains that just didn't work properly, and so we started carefully considering ways to change things. We talked with a plumber about septic system maintenance, and they had some tips that improved our experience. Check out this website for awesome tips on managing septic tanks.
If you have noticed that your home's fixtures have been draining slower the past few days, you may wonder if there is a problem with your septic system. If the system is overflowing or leaking, the contents may be saturating the septic drain field for the tank. Look for the following signs that your septic tank is overloading the drain field.
Foul Odor Detected in the Area
Before you even reach the drain field, start using your nose to see if you smell any foul odors. You may start smelling the stench as soon as you walk out of your house, but it will grow stronger as you get closer to the drain field.
Since the septic tank holds waste and grey water, it will smell like sewage. If this material has started seeping into the surrounding ground and into your drain field, it will carry this wretched odor with it. This odor is usually the first tell-tale sign that something is seriously wrong with your septic tank.
Grass Grows Faster
While you are inspecting the drain field, you may notice how lush and green the grass is growing. It will most likely even be taller than the grass surrounding it.
If the tank is spewing sewage into the field, this constant moisture gives the grass in the field an advantage. And, since the waste materials are broken down, they act like a fertilizer that makes the grass grow fast and healthy.
Black Slimy Film Is Present
Along with greener grass, you may also detect something else on the surface of the drain field that indicates a serious problem with your septic tank. You may discover a black, slimy film in between the lush blades of grass.
If your tank has a serious leak or has even ruptured, the waste materials will directly soak into the soil around it. As the soil below the surface becomes saturated, this sewage will make its way to the surface where it will settle.
As more of the material saturates the ground, the slushier this film will become, causing it spread until it contaminates the soil. If this happens, it can pose a serious health hazard to your household, neighbors, and the surrounding drinking supply.
If you notice any of the above signs in your yard, your septic tank is most likely leaking out and saturating the drain field. Contact a septic service as soon as possible to have them determine the cause and make the necessary repairs.
Share21 August 2018
