How Violent Summer Storms Can Affect a Septic System

Summer storms can bring challenges to people who use septic systems. In Florida, a lot of people rely on septic tanks and want to know how our crazy storms can affect their systems. If you’re one of those people, Lakeland Septic Company of Lakeland, FL, would like to share some helpful information on what can happen to septic systems during heavy summer storms.

Here are some of the more common problems that excess rain and ground moisture can cause:

Tank Filling

When the septic tank becomes too full – whether it’s from heavy rains or years of neglect – backups will happen. You may notice sewage in your drains and find that drains and toilets are slow. You’ll probably also experience some pretty bad odors.

Shifting Soil

A lot of rain for several hours or several days often causes shifting and settling of the soil around the septic tank and other parts of the system. This can lead to component damage followed by system malfunction.

Drain Field Issues

A drain field connected to a septic tank sends processed liquids into the soil adjacent to the field. If the soil is waterlogged, the drain field might back up and cause operational problems throughout the system.

Falling Trees

If a summer storm causes trees or heavy branches to fall on the ground above a septic tank or drain field, the weight can crush vulnerable parts of the system and lead to leaks and backups.

What To Do After A Summer Rainstorm

During the storm, you’ll be using sinks, showers, and toilets, so keep a close eye on them and note if they start running slowly or backing up.

After the storm, it’s always a good idea to bring out your septic service company for an inspection, especially if you’ve noticed any storm-related problems.

Your technician will check the tank level, drainage pipes, baffles, drain field, and lift station pump (if you have one) and determine if repairs or component replacements are needed.

A big summer storm isn’t a guarantee that you’ll wind up with septic problems, but it’s always a good idea to have your system checked out after a big rain.

Things You Can Do To Protect Your Septic System During Storms

Install a good property drainage system: The goal is to channel water away from the septic tank and drain field.

Plant water-absorbing vegetation around the septic system: These plants are thirsty and will help to keep excess moisture out of nearby soil all year long.

Reduce your water use: In the middle of a storm, avoid washing laundry, taking showers that aren’t absolutely necessary, and using any of your home’s drains more than you need to.

Schedule regular septic tank pumping: Having your tank cleaned out on a set schedule will help it to fare better when the next big rainstorm blows into town.

Keep Your Septic System Working Right

Lakeland Septic Company responds to many emergency calls during and after summer rainstorms. We provide complete repair services for septic tanks, lift stations, drain fields and other components. We also perform licensed septic inspections and tank pumping.

If a storm has caused problems for your septic system, call the problem solvers at Lakeland Septic. Reach an expert by phone or get in touch through our simple contact form. We serve all of Polk County, FL, and Hillsborough County, FL.