Just like the other components of your house, the septic tank also needs periodic maintenance. It is not that you have to fix the septic tank issues now and then instead it is something that when occurs and if ignored results in hefty repair costs.
Some of the most common septic tank problems include overflowing, bad odor, slow drains, and much more which can make your home uninhabitable if not fixed ASAP.
Fixing the septic tank problems immediately is not just important to make the tank long last, but it is also done to ensure that the faulty septic tank does not cause serious health and ecological problems.
In this guide, we will learn about major septic tank issues that need to be repaired to ensure a hygienic and fully functional septic system at your home. Whether you are a homeowner or any septic tank service, this guide will be an informative guide to you have a better understanding of each problem and what causes them.
5 Common Septic Tank Problems That Need Repair
A Collapsed Baffle
A baffle is a barrier in the septic tank that protects the scum layer and controls the glide of liquid in the tank. A clogged baffle consequences in sewage backing up into your houses which no homeowner ought to afford.
If the outlet baffle is blocked the solid effluent enters the leach pipes causing trouble in the entire leach field system.
The baffle could easily clogged by the non-biodegradable toilet papers and other stuff that gets stuck in the inlet or outlet baffle. If the problem exists and is left unchecked, it might end up failing the drainfield plumbing.
You can unclog it by simply using a pole to remove the debris or any toilet paper stuck in the inlet or outlet baffle. But be mindful not to damage other septic tank components.
Tree Roots Infiltrating the Sewage Pipes
One most prominent reasons behind the evident septic tank problems is the tree roots within the suburbs that infiltrate the pipes. If you notice constant wet patches, puddles, and mysterious cracks within your driveway or sidewalk, that means the water hasn’t been drained properly and the tree roots might have entered into your pipes.
Other than cracks and puddles, you might notice a septic tank foul odor in the surrounding area because the water has not been drained and the untreated waste in the tank has leaked out. With time if this issue isn’t fixed the tree roots grow wider thus causing more cracks.
Failed Drainfield
Failed drain field is also another problem associated with the septic tank and it can cause septic tank backup. The growth of grass and spongy soils are both indicative of a failed drain field of the septic tank.
This might be either because your septic tank was poorly installed or too much solid effluent has been made to the drain field causing the drain field to fail prematurely. This is often caused by a buildup of hair, body oil, and soap scum that washes down in the shower and solidifies in your pipes. In addition to this, it might be because the septic tank has reached its functional capacity and needs a new installation.
Damaged Dip Pipe
The dip pipe has a function similar to that of the baffle. It means it differentiates the type of waste that enters the soakaway system and the drain field. Damaged dip pipers can result in the improper flow of wastewater, resulting in inadequate treatment and the settlement of solids.
The signs of a damaged dip pipe include a foul smell, lush green grass growth around the area where your septic system lies, and the soggy ground in the drain field area.
Altered Hydro-Static Pressure
The hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by the liquid on the walls of the septic tank. However, fluctuating hydrostatic pressure could end up in complete blowouts or cracks within the walls.
On the other hand, the external hydrostatic pressure can result in the entrance of groundwater into the tank resulting in the dilution of the effluent thus overloading the system.
The reason for the fluctuation of the hydrostatic pressure includes the improper installation of the tank without considering the depth and the local groundwater levels. To fix this, it is important to consider the local water table and soil conditions before septic tank operation.
How To Fix Common Septic Tank Problems?
To make sure your septic tank retains the same functionality and to avoid frequent septic tank repair, you must follow the following tips:
- Routine septic tank maintenance and cleaning can prevent frequent clogging and slow drain issues.
- You can contact a professional septic tank installation service provider to make sure the septic tank is installed correctly.
- Also make sure to choose the right septic tank type size, type, and design as per your usage.
- Do not use harsh chemicals to prevent any septic tank clogging. In addition , be mindful of what you drain. Do not flush dampers, toilet paper, tampons, and wet wipes that might clog your drain field.
- Avoid using too much water because using too much water is not sustainable and also results in more pressure on the septic tank to process the solid waste.
Importance Of Septic Tank Maintenance
Keeping your septic tank in desirable shape is essential as it prevents huge problems that may be highly priced and messy. When a septic tank isn’t always maintained, it could result in clogs, leaks, or even gadget failure. These problems are no longer the most effective advice spending a lot of cash on repairs but additionally dealing with unpleasant smells and unsanitary situations that would affect your own family’s health and your house.
Moreover, looking after your septic tank is critical for the surroundings. A well-maintained tank treats wastewater nicely, preventing it from contaminating the soil and groundwater. This is critical due to the fact easy soil and water are critical for plant life, animals, and people. So, by maintaining your septic machine in take a look at, you are now not simply saving yourself from future complications and fees but additionally doing your component to preserve the surroundings safe and clean. It’s a simple venture that has big benefits for all of us.
Conclusion
Septic tank troubles can disrupt day-by-day life and pose environmental risks if not addressed directly. From clogs and leaks to damaged dip pipes and varied hydrostatic strain, those troubles proportion one commonplace solution: properly timed professional intervention.
Regular preservation and early detection are key to making sure your septic machine remains efficient, steady, and practical. By expertise and performing on those not-unusual problems, owners can prevent expensive protection and extend the existence of their septic structures.
