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.
Residential septic systems comprise more than just a tank that holds wastewater. After settling in the tank, the liquid waste exits the tank through an outlet pipe and into the drain field or leech field. The drain field comprises perforated pipes that slowly discharge the wastewater into the ground for treatment. A damaged leech field can spell trouble for your entire septic system. Therefore, look out for these early warning signs of failure.
Slow Wastewater Drainage
Have you noticed slower-than-usual drainage from your toilets, sinks, and tubs? If so, your septic drain field may be in trouble. As aforementioned, when wastewater reaches the tank, it exits into the drain field for treatment and discharge. There is no other outlet for the wastewater leaving your home.
Therefore, if the drain field pipes are blocked or damaged, they won't discharge effluent as fast as they should. Consequently, the septic tank will fill up too high, halting drainage operations. If you don't act quickly, wastewater will back up into your drains or overflow into the yard. You must repair the pipes to restore wastewater flow and improve drainage.
Rising Water in the Leech Field
One early sign of a failing leech field is an increase in the water levels in the area. A healthy drain field should discharge effluent into the soil underneath the pipes without soaking the ground above them. If the soil above the drain field feels soggy and wet, the system is failing. Also, if the vegetation atop the leech field appears too lush and healthy, the effluent has flooded the topsoil.
Various factors can cause the water levels in the leech field to rise. Therefore, look out for these issues.
Besides repairing the drain field, you need to address the above factors that cause future failure. Limit foot and vehicular traffic around the leech field to avoid severe soil compaction. If your area experiences freezing winters, use drain field insulation to protect the pipes from freezing.
Trees Near the Septic System
Are there any trees near your septic tank or drain field? If so, it's only a matter of time before they damage your system. Tree roots naturally grow towards water sources; therefore, they can easily invade your leech field. Tree roots can clog the perforated pipes or crack them, causing poor effluent drainage. If you have trees near your system, look out for soggy soil and sewer odors in the area. Repair the damaged pipes and install a root barrier to prevent future invasions.
Is your septic system exhibiting these signs? Contact a contractor for immediate septic repairs.
Share28 February 2022
