4 Symptoms That Your Septic Pump Needs Service

Septic system failure can be caused by anything from flushing solid materials like feminine hygiene products and diapers, to using a garbage disposal, to using certain water purification systems. Many septic system issues can be avoided with regular inspection and maintenance, but problems do happen—and they’re not fun. Here are the 4 surefire signs that your septic system needs to be looked at by a professional.

1. Bad Smells

Follow your nose…this symptom is unmistakable. If you notice a strong, foul odor coming from your drains or the area around the tank, it’s a sign of a blocked drain that needs to be pumped out.

2. Pooling Water

Pooling water or marshy areas around the septic tank could be signs of a leaking tank giving off moisture. Pay particular attention to the lawn around the drain field. When your septic tank is working properly , wastewater should stay underground and out of sight. If it starts rising to the surface, you’ve got a problem. Also, if you notice that the grass around the septic tank area is particularly green or lush, that could be a sign of excessive moisture, too.

3. Slow Drains

Excessively slow sink drains, bathtub drains, and toilets could be a sign that your septic tank is full. If you’ve tried retail drain unclogging products or plungers and they haven’t helped, you should contact a professional. Another related sign is if you notice a gurgling noise coming from your drains.

4. Sewage Backup

This is, obviously, one of the most worrying signs of septic system failure because it means that wastewater is backing up into your sinks, bathtubs, or basement. When septic system failure causes major sewage backups, don’t try to clean the mess yourself! Wastewater can be harmful to you and your family, so call a septic specialist and a water remediation company for help right away.

Important! These symptoms can be health hazards—the water that is pooling or backing up into your house is wastewater and needs to be dealt with as soon as possible.

Dealing with wastewater problems can be frustrating, but luckily, there are usually signs you can look for and address the issue before it causes major damage. Use common sense to keep your septic system working properly, and pump regularly!