Septic: From A to Z

2 Common Septic System Problems

A septic system plays a vital role in the smooth running of your household. However, most property owners pay less attention to septic systems until they suddenly have an issue. If your system has a problem, you will not take a shower, run the dishwasher or even use the toilet. These inconveniences require immediate solutions.

So, you should know the common problems affecting your septic system and how to fix them. Read on to find out!

1. Non-Biodegradables in the Septic Tank

Over time, your tank will fill up with solid waste and sludge. Some of this waste could be non-biodegradable. Thus, bacteria cannot break them down.

Common non-biodegradable materials in septic tanks include diapers, tampons, and paper towels.

The solid waste will cause your septic tank to fill up much faster and potentially cause leaks. They do so by blocking the drainage system and causing an overfill of liquid waste in your tank. So, if you notice your drains are getting slower or the toilet is backing up, there could be clogs due to non-biodegradables in your septic system.

Say your tank has been pumped within a year or two, but you are experiencing septic system problems. It may be a clog in your septic system. If the drains are working well, but you still notice sewage backup into your plumbing system or gathering around your septic tank, there could be a clog in the effluent filter.

Soon as you notice signs of clogging, you should schedule septic tank repair services.

2. Tree Roots Infiltrating the Tank and Pipes

Another common cause of septic system problems is tree roots infiltrating the tank or blocking the inlet pipes.

If your tank is too close to shrubs and trees, the roots can cause septic problems as they grow through the septic tank walls. Further, the roots may cause cracks in your sewer pipes. And as they grow, the cracks widen. As a result, liquid from the tank will escape and prevent the system from working efficiently.

You may start noticing mysterious wet patches and puddles on your lawn, sewage backing into your drains, and cracks on your sidewalk or driveway. There will also be a mess in the surrounding area and foul odors.

You can prevent this problem by installing pipes that can withstand damage by roots. Also, map out where your sewer pipes are so you can plant trees far away from them. Additionally, you should treat the sewer pipes with root-eliminating chemicals if they are close to trees.

If your septic tank has already incurred damage due to root infiltration, call septic system repair services to restore your tank and pipes to good working condition. For more information, contact a company like J&L Septic Tank Services LLC.


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