5 Common Septic Tank Problems

A septic system helps to remove wastewater from your home. However, septic systems require regular maintenance and quick problem solving. When you properly maintain your septic system, the system can serve you for many years.

Discover common septic tank problems to be aware of.

1. Damage From Tree Roots
Tree roots will grow in areas with water. If the roots discover a septic tank, they can try to get inside the tank. In the process, the tank could crack and start to leak. A leaking septic tank can generate unpleasant odors and cause suspiciously healthy grass to grow near the tank.

A possible solution is to avoid planting trees near the septic tanks. In case roots reach the septic tank, use chemical treatments or mechanical removal to get rid of the roots.

2. Clogs
A common problem is if solid waste accumulates in the septic tank. This shouldn't be a problem if you regularly pump your tank. But lack of regular septic tank pumping can cause solid waste to accumulate in the tank.

The septic tank can also clog if you force non-biodegradable materials into the tank. Non-biodegradable substances end up in your septic tank from your drains, toilets, and garbage disposal units. For example, cigarette butts, sanitary wipes, diapers, and paper towels should never enter the septic tank. Nail polish, paint, glue, and motor oil are also substances that can destroy your septic tank.

Also, specific cleaning detergents contain chemicals that can damage the septic tank. Some chemicals are corrosive and acidic, which may destroy the pipes connecting the septic tank to other components.

The best solution is to pump your septic tank regularly. Also, be careful about the materials that you put down your drain.

3. Excess Water
Excessive water usage can lead to tank overflow. When the tank overflows, the water will force the solid matter out of the septic tank and into tubes that should only handle liquids. This disruption interferes with the proper breakdown of solid waste. Also, solid waste in the tubes blocks the flow of liquids into and out of the tank.

One possible solution is to get another pipeline for extra water.

4. Broken Drain Lines
When septic tanks’ drain lines break, the rate of water draining reduces. As a result, your plumbing appliances will accumulate water even when the septic tank works properly.

One common cause of broken drain lines is parking heavy vehicles on the septic drainfield. The vehicles can exert excessive pressure on the earth above the septic tank or drainfield and cause damage.

The problem can also happen when you drive a light vehicle over the drain fields occasionally. Therefore, avoid parking or driving any type of vehicle over the septic tank or drainfield.

If the drains are already broken, call a specialist plumber to inspect the pipes and identify the problem. You can then replace or repair the collapsed or broken drain line.

5. Strong Odors
Unpleasant and strong odors emanating from the household drains may indicate problems with the septic tank. The problem might be waste buildup or problems with the soak-away area of the septic tank. Also, when bacteria that break down waste in the septic tank die, solid waste will accumulate in the tank.

Identifying the specific cause of the unpleasant smells from the septic tank can be tricky. The best action is to contact a professional contractor to inspect your tank. Also, regular maintenance of your septic tank can help prevent unpleasant smells.

Ultimately, any septic tank problem is a significant inconvenience. The most recommended solution is to work with a professional to inspect the tank and do the necessary repairs. Pete's Outflow Technicians is a professional contractor that repairs septic tanks. Contact us to get a quote.