How To Spot a Septic System Failure

With Central Florida having just been subjected to the impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton, many septic system owners are concerned if they have an issue after the effects of these storms. It is a legitimate concern and requires prompt attention; with that in mind, here is how to spot a septic system failure.

Water Standing Over the Septic Tank

After two hurricanes and massive amounts of water being dropped on homes from Tampa to Lakeland, the ground is saturated. If you see water standing over your septic tank after the water has evaporated everywhere else on your property, there was likely damage to your drain field from the sheer amount of water it had to endure. This sign means there is nowhere for the wastewater from your septic tank to go, and it will overfill it. If this issue is left unchecked, then it can cause permanent damage to your septic system.

Slow Drainage in Your Home

If you see water slowly draining from your sinks, showers, bathtubs, and toilets, you are on the verge of septic system failure. It may be tempting to ignore the problem until it gets worse, but then you could end up having more costly repairs in the future. It is best to contact a septic system professional and rectify the problem before it gets out of hand.

Foul Smells

If you are detecting foul odors inside your home and on your property near the septic tank, it is a sign that it could be failing. The reason for the smell is that wastewater is not being processed, which could result in a failed septic tank or drain field. This issue must be addressed before it progresses to total septic system failure.

Sewage Backups

This issue is self-explanatory. If you flush the toilet, it backs up or bubbles up into your bathtub. You have a blockage or damage to your drain field or septic tank. It is not a problem that can be rectified with a drain cleaner or plunger. A qualified septic service needs to intervene in this problem to ensure that all possible causes are properly dealt with so you can have peace of mind.

Gurgling Sounds in Pipes

If you hear constant gurgling sounds in your plumbing, there is probably a blockage in your toilet or one of the drains in your home. Again, you must consult a professional septic service to deal with the issue. They have the equipment and training to determine what is causing the gurgling sound and how to address the problem.

Frequently Having to Have Your Septic System Pumped

Having your septic tank pumped routinely is a good idea, but if it becomes frequent, it is a sign of a deeper problem. It could be damage to the drain field or the septic tank itself that is causing the need for frequent pumping.

Let Lakeland Septic Inspect Your Septic System

If you have noticed any of the above signs and are in the greater Lakeland or Polk County areas, get in touch before your septic system fails, which will lead to expensive repairs. We will gladly discuss how to best approach your septic system issues. Don’t wait, act now.