What Causes A Septic Tank To Back Up? (Solved)

Hydraulic overloading occurs when too much water rushes into the septic system at once, causing wastewater to back up into your drains. Space out high-volume activities like laundry, showering and running the dishwasher. Also, remember that unusually wet weather can contribute to hydraulic overloading.

How do I stop my septic tank from backing up?

5 Ways to Avoid a Septic Backup

  1. Be Careful About What You Flush. There is no such thing as a flushable wipe – they are not flushable, so do not flush them!
  2. Pay Attention to What Goes Down the Kitchen Drain.
  3. Take it Easy on the Laundry.
  4. Pump Your Septic Tank Before the Holidays.
  5. Use a Septic System Additive.

What are the signs of a backed up septic tank?

Septic Tank Back Up: Top 5 Warning Signs

  • Drain Clogs. Clogged drains are a common indicator of septic problems, as well as being one of the most common problems homeowners face.
  • Sewage Backup.
  • Standing Ground Water Near Septic Tank.
  • Bad Odors.
  • Patch of Overly Green Grass.

Can a lot of rain cause septic tank backup?

It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.

Can I shower if my septic tank is full?

Unless the toilet’s overflowing or the bath spigot is filling the tub with blood, plumbers and exorcists aren’t usually on our minds. When the waste water from your toilet, shower, sinks and washing machine leave your house, it’s combined. When it hits the septic tank, however, it begins to separate.

What is the most common cause of septic system failure?

Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.

Will a flooded septic tank fix itself?

Most septic tanks are not damaged by flooding since they are below ground and completely covered. However, septic tanks and pump chambers can fill with silt and debris, and must be professionally cleaned. If the soil absorption field is clogged with silt, a new system may have to be installed.

Are dead animals good for septic tanks?

This is false. Rotting meat just adds unnecessary and foreign bacteria to your septic tank. At best, this will do nothing. At worst, bones and fur from a dead animal will clog up your system.

How many loads of laundry a day are safe to do with a septic tank?

Spread Out Laundry Loads These use less water which puts less stress on your septic system. Regardless of the type of appliance you have, you should still spread out your loads. Instead of doing several loads in one day, consider doing 1 load per day or space out 2 loads if you must do more in a single day.

How do I clean my septic tank naturally?

You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!

What Causes a Septic Tank to Back Up With Your Home System?

Consider the following subject, which may cause chills to run up and down your spine.and for good reason! The most common reason for this is a clogged septic tank. That one seemingly simple, innocent query has elicited as many and different responses as the people who use the facilities that drain into septic tanks. Let’s have a look at a couple of them in one go.

Answer1.

When a septic tank backs up, it is because it is exhausted from constantly moving ahead. Haha. You got me on that one, didn’t you? Okay, so I couldn’t help but crack a corny joke here and there.

More serious now:

When dealing with a septic backup, one of the first things to assess is if the backup is caused by the Septic Tank itself, or whether it is caused by a blockage in the plumbing lines. Customers who are experiencing a backup may contact in to have their septic tank pumped, only to find that once our personnel pump the septic tank, the backup has returned to its previous state. As opposed to a genuine backup in the sewer system, blocked plumbing lines are more frequently the culprit. The following are some of the most typical reasons for clogged plumbing/drainage lines leading to the septic tank:

Tree Roots

This is one of the most typical problems that drainage lines encounter all across the world. We all adore those beautiful lawns that are shaded by a large, imposing old oak or maple tree, don’t we? They’re just stunning. While it is true that the upper half of the tree, which is easily seen and appreciated, is lovely, these trees have a dark counterpart underground.a vicious root system that is constantly on the lookout for.water! Tree roots have an extraordinary capacity to detect the presence of water from tremendous distances, and they will go to great lengths to penetrate anything that comes between them and the precious water that they so desperately require to survive.

  • Once you’re inside, two things start to happen at the same time.
  • These roots continue to develop and proliferate within the pipe, soaking up the nutrient-rich water and returning it to the tree.
  • Despite its small size, it possesses incredible strength.
  • The use of a high-powered water-jetting equipment and/or a mechanical augering cutter tool can be used to address minor root infestations in the home.
  • Major infestations will need the excavation and removal of the infested pipe, followed by the installation of a new pipe to remedy the damage.

When doing these repairs, special attention must be paid to the connecting points because even the smallest break will result in a recurrence of the original problem over time.

Other common system damage causes include:

Never, ever do something like this. Grease should be poured down the sink. Period. This is one of the most reliable methods of causing a backup in your plumbing lines and septic tank. When grease comes into touch with water, it will coagulate and solidify. Once within your pipe, it will solidify into a stiff material that can eventually block your pipes completely, causing overflowing toilets, sinks, and showers to occur. Have I said everything I wanted to say? Here are a couple of more things you might not have considered.

  1. They have a bad propensity of producing backlogs in the system.
  2. Baby wipes should not be flushed.
  3. There will be no condoms.
  4. They will eliminate the live bacteria that is necessary for your septic tank to function correctly.
  5. And yes, we have witnessed each and every one of these frightening scenarios.as well as many others.

Improper plumbing installations

When installing plumbing, an inexperienced plumber or a do-it-yourselfer may make the mistake of installing piping with inadequate fall, also known as drop. When the water in a flush runs too slowly, the solids settle to the bottom of the pipe, where they may be seen seeping away as the water seeps away. By the time the next flush rolls along, the solids have dried up and become adhered to the bottom of the pipe, generating a buildup that eventually results in a blockage and a backlog of water.

Another cause of backups:

These are intended to keep your leach field from being overloaded, hence avoiding the need for costly septic system repairs. Their purpose is to keep all particles contained within the septic tank and to enable only water to drain to the leach field or drain field. To ensure that these filters continue to perform properly, they must be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Failure to clean and maintain your effluent filter will eventually result in.you guessed it.a clogged effluent filter.

One final common cause for Septic damage:

Extremely heavy rains or extended periods of wet or rainy weather, particularly in areas where groundwater and surface water are not adequately redirected and drained away from your septic tank and leach field, can cause flooding in your septic system. The long-term solution to this problem is to have adequate drainage work completed to guarantee that your septic system is kept protected from rainwater run-off. Give us a call at Shankster Bros. to find answers to all of these issues and many others!

3 Potential Causes of a Septic System Backup

A septic system may handle the plumbing requirements of a home just as well as a municipal sewer system. However, in order to keep a septic system working properly, it must be maintained on a regular basis. Those that do not properly maintain their systems are more likely to experience issues, and they may even be subjected to the most feared of all problems – backups. A backed-up sewage system is not only an annoyance, but it may be hazardous to one’s health in some cases. Unfortunately, a broad range of underlying problems might result in a backup being created.

  • A septic system backlog can be caused by any of three factors, as detailed in this article.
  • The tank is overflowing.
  • Anaerobic digestion decreases the volume of solids in a tank by decreasing their density, resulting in the formation of sludge at the bottom of the tank.
  • The bigger the amount of sludge in a septic tank, the greater the likelihood of backups.
  • You must get your tank properly pumped on a regular basis if you want to completely eradicate this problem.
  • Having said that, most tanks require pumping every two to three years, on average.
  • 2.

In addition to solid waste remaining inside the tank, where it breaks down into a layer of sludge, as previously mentioned.

Once the liquid waste reaches the drainfield, it is distributed into the soil using underground pipelines.

When soil is over-compacted, liquid waste has a difficult time moving out of drainpipes and into the environment.

Excessive compaction is frequently caused by the inappropriate usage of drainfields.

Similarly, never cover your drainfield with landscaping plastic, as this limits the amount of oxygen that it receives from the surrounding environment.

Chemical Exposure (number three) As previously stated, anaerobic bacteria are used in a septic tank to break down solid waste into sludge, which is then recycled.

Simply put, when such compounds are present in sufficient concentrations, they kill the germs that they are intended to kill.

As a result, because solid waste takes up a higher amount of space than liquid waste, the system is at a considerably greater risk of encountering backups.

Bleach and other disinfectants, as well as drain cleaners, have a detrimental effect on bacteria.

If the salty backwash from such systems is discharged into the septic tank, it may accidentally kill germs.

Those who possess septic systems must exercise caution in order to prevent backups. If you would like more information on how to keep your septic system in good operating order, please contact the septic professionals at American Portable Toilets for assistance.

Septic Tank Backup: Warning Signs & How To Fix It

It is no one’s desire to rip up their grass in order to pay for a pricey septic tank repair. Having a thorough understanding of your tank and a sharp eye for difficulties implies that you can foresee problems and the entirety of your system’s renovation.

How Does A Septic Tank Work?

A basic septic tank is composed of two components: Watertight subterranean tank for storing sludge and wastes 2) and a drain field, which treats and filters water as it returns to the soil after being drained. When everything is running correctly, this mechanism keeps potentially hazardous material in situ and only allows treated water to escape. All that is required is that the waste be pumped out every few years, and the system will continue to operate properly. However, if you’re reading this, you’re probably aware that this isn’t always the case.

Why Do Septic Tanks Backup?

A backed-up septic tank is a major headache that can occur for a variety of reasons. Some events are under your control, while others may occur at any time. Septic tank backlog can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are listed below: Flooding: When heavy rains soak the earth around a septic tank, the tank may have a difficult time emptying correctly, leading to flooding. The trash and the clean water will mix together and run out simultaneously if there is no dry soil to absorb the pure water.

  1. Tanks are available in a variety of sizes.
  2. Unsatisfactory Installation: Unless you built your home from the ground up, you may not be aware of who constructed your septic system or how old it is.
  3. Before purchasing a new house, make sure to get the septic tank inspected.
  4. Only rubbish and toilet paper should ever be flushed.
  5. If you’re not sure whether anything is flushable, look to see if the box says “septic safe.” If it doesn’t, toss it in the garbage!
  6. Growing tree roots may even cause obstructions in pipes as they creep into cracks and crevices.
  7. Make sure your tank is well marked and that any prospective traffic is kept away from it.
See also:  What Does It Cost To Have A Septic Tank Pumped? (TOP 5 Tips)

Warning Signs of a Backed Up Septic System (And What to do About It!)

It might be difficult to determine the signs of a backed-up septic tank at first glance.

At first sight, you could dismiss any of these warning indicators as being inconsequential. However, it is critical to take all of these warnings seriously and to conduct an investigation into the matter. Identify whether any of these warning indicators are present in your house.

  • Was it a while ago that you had your septic tank drained and cleaned? In the absence of a regular cleaning routine, you may notice sewage backups in your toilet as well as slow draining sinks and bathtubs in your bathroom. This is an indication of blockages. Without frequent pumping, a septic tank fills up with solid waste and enables contaminated water to pass through
  • However, the unclean, polluted water has nowhere to go and must be pumped out regularly.
  • Your driveway or sidewalk may be gradually rising due to tree roots if you see bumps in the road or uneven surfaces. There are a few different approaches you may use to deal with roots in your septic system. It is the most lasting method if you are ready to part with the tree, removing it totally, removing and replacing it with new pipes. Newer, stronger plastic pipes are designed to withstand tree roots and are an excellent alternative to metal pipes. Alternatively, you may pour a root-killing solution down the drain to prevent future development.
  • In one spot of your yard, do you have a clump of vivid green grass growing? If it hasn’t rained in a while, have you seen pools of water in unexpected places? Your septic system’s leaky pipes are clearly visible in these conditions.
  • It is a strong indication that you have a septic tank backlog if your home begins to smell like a sewer. If sewage cannot adequately drain down into the tank, the only option is for it to flow back up the pipes.

If you have seen one or more of these warning signals, it is imperative that you take action before the issue spirals out of control, since there are serious implications to having a clogged septic system.

Dangers of a Backed Up Septic Tank

A clogged septic tank may cause far more serious problems than just a puddle of water in your shower. Septic backflow is a serious health threat for you and your family, since it is a carrier of illness. In sewage, drug leftovers, human waste, fungi, viruses, and bacteria can all be found in large quantities. If you see any sewage backup bubbling into your house, call for expert aid in disinfecting your home. When you have a clogged septic tank, water damage is a definite possibility. Septic tank leakage in your house may severely harm your flooring and walls, as well as the rest of your property.

Untreated sewage from your clogged septic system can have far-reaching consequences for the ecology surrounding your property.

If you see signs of a clogged septic system, you should either attempt to fix it yourself or hire a professional like All Dry USA to do the work for you.

How To Fix Septic Tank Backup

The most effective technique to repair a septic tank is through regular maintenance. If you have a big family, make sure you get your system pumped every 3 to 5 years, or more frequently if necessary. Regular pumping will hopefully save a giant backhoe from ripping up your yard and repairing a sewage tank that has broken down on you. Check to ensure that your float switch is functioning properly. This will automatically turn off the system and shut off your water supply to prevent a potential backup from occurring.

Snakes may be obtained at any hardware shop and are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate the size of your pipes.

Calling (866) 313-0458 at any time of day or night to speak with All Dry USA about your backed-up septic tank is a terrific answer.

As a result of our more than ten years of repair experience, we haven’t come across an obstruction, a pipe, or a septic tank that we couldn’t clear out and put back in working condition.

Ben possesses a wide range of specialized qualifications and certifications in the fields of repair and building. Ben Suiskind’s most recent blog entries (See all of them)

5 Things To Know About Septic System Backups

If you’re the kind that like to do things himself, fixing a leaking pipe every now and then is OK. However, if the problem is more complicated than a leaking pipe or a blocked toilet, it is not a job that should be attempted by the homeowner. Septic system backups are extremely dangerous, and you should contact a septic repair firm as soon as possible to get the situation resolved. The probability of sewer backups is one of the most difficult challenges that homeowners will have to deal with.

This is one job for which you will want the services of a professional.

Can the septic system backup into my house?

Yes, it is possible. Sinks and bathtub drains that take a long time to empty may be your first and only warning indicators. If this appears to be happening on a regular basis, it might be an indication of something more serious to come. If you notice murky, black, or dark-colored water backing up into your toilets, bathtub, or sinks, it might be sewage, and you should call a septic provider to come out and inspect the situation immediately. If it turns out to be a backup problem, they will have the necessary instruments and experience to correct it without putting you or the houses around you in any danger.

What causes this to happen?

  • Generally speaking, the reasons of septic system backups are the same as those that cause sewage line blockages. Tree roots that have grown underground have found their way into the crevices in the pipes and have continued to grow, creating an impediment. Foreign objects in the system: It is possible that non-flushable goods such as feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, diapers, or other similar items were flushed through the system and became trapped
  • Using a trash disposal: Although a garbage disposal is intended to flush the contents of the disposal into an open sewage line, if the food is not broken down small enough, it might become lodged in the pipes, causing a clog. Overflow can also be caused by a large amount of water being pumped into the system at the same time, such as that produced by dishwashers, washing machines, and frequent showering. This is referred to as an overload, and it may be prevented by spreading out your water consumption across appliances and showers. For example, you may run your dishwasher at night, shower in the mornings, and wash your clothes once or twice a week as an example of spacing your tasks. This will prevent an excessive amount of water from being pushed into the system, which might cause it to overflow and push back into the home

5 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

If you see one or more of these five signs, your septic system may be failing. If you only have the first of these indicators, it may not be a significant worry, but if you have more than one of these signs, you most likely have a serious issue.

  1. Drainage that is clogged
  2. A foul odor emanating from your yard
  3. Reverse osmosis of water into the tub, shower, or sinks
  4. The presence of water near the septic tank’s lid
  5. A area of greenery or a stretch of land that has a lot of water

Can this be prevented?

You may avoid septic system backups by making sure that no toys or other things are flushed down the toilet. A sink strainer will also prevent a large amount of food leftovers from being flushed down the toilet. You may also avoid overflowing toilets by spreading out your water consumption, as previously indicated. Additionally, make certain that your system is pushed out at the suitable moment. Septic systems should be pumped out every 3 to 5 years in order to prevent issues from developing.

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What to do if your septic system backs up?

The steps you should take if your septic system begins to back up. Make sure you follow these procedures to ensure that the problem is resolved!

1. Stop Running Water

When your septic system begins to back up, the first thing you should do is turn off the water supply. The majority of people are unaware that when sewage begins to flow into their home, it is because the water they are using has nowhere to go. Simply turn off the water supply and the flow of sewage will be stopped immediately! Until the problem with your septic system is repaired, refrain from using the bathroom, taking a shower, doing dishes, or doing laundry. In order to use the shower or the bathroom, you will be need to go to a neighbor’s house or a local leisure center.

If your sewage system is equipped with an alarm, there will be a “quiet” button on the alarm panel. Once the switch is turned on, the light will continue to flash, but the sound will be silenced. Put a stop to the running water and call a waste-water specialist.

2. Check the Water Level in Your Septic Tanks

After that, you need to figure out where the problem is stemming from. Perhaps there is no problem with your septic system at all, but the plumbing between your house and the tank may have been blocked as a result. In order to accomplish this, the amount of water in your septic tank must be checked. We recommend that you hire a waste-water specialist to take care of this for you, as entering your tank may present a risk of injury or death. If you decide to do the inspection yourself, keep in mind that tank lids can be heavy and may require specific tools to open properly.

Normal Operation Level:

It is difficult to define what constitutes a “full” septic tank. The normal operating level will look somewhat like the image on the left of this page. In order for the “riser” to ascend to the surface, there should be no water present. The sewage connection from the home to the septic tank should be checked for damage or obstructions if your septic system is backing up yet your septic tank has a normal operating level, such as the one illustrated in the illustration below. However, while John Todd Co.

When it comes to sewage line scoping, a camera tiny enough to penetrate your pipes and check the problem regions is available as a service from our company.

Overfull Level:

It is necessary to have your septic tank pumped if you open the lids of your septic tank and see water pouring into the riser, as shown in the illustration to the right. Always be sure that whomever is pumping your septic tank is keeping an eye out for any backflow from the soil treatment area (for gravity systems). A failing leach field will be evident if you detect water gushing back into the tank from the leach field for an unusually long period of time. Septic tank pumping is a service provided by John Todd Co., and the company even provides an after-hours emergency pumping service for customers.

To use hot water, turn on all of your sinks, showers, and tubs, and flush a toilet two to three times, as needed.

This forces anything that may have become lodged in the pipes between your tank and your house during the back up to the surface of the water.

3. Follow Up with Repairs

Pipe cleaning and septic tank pumping are merely short fixes for a long-term problem. Make sure you follow up on any repairs that have been recommended to you. Your sewage line being clogged might be due to a broken or deformed pipe that has to be repaired or removed and replaced. It will be necessary to have a new leach field created if your existing leach field is not absorbing water.

You can contact us at any time if you have any queries or need assistance with the situation. Call (303) 791-0520 to talk with a member of the John Todd Co. team who is knowledgeable about the company’s products and services.

How to spot the most common septic back up problems

In the same way that you maintain the rest of your home, your septic system requires routine maintenance. If the system is properly maintained, it should last for many years with just minor malfunctions. In contrast, when the system ages and maintenance is not performed on a regular basis, there are concerns which may arise and cause a backup inside your septic system.

See also:  How To Drain A Septic Tank? (Best solution)

Here are the signs of a problem with your septic system and what to do to if you experience any of these problems!

  1. Flooding is occurring in the home due to the backup of water and sewage from toilets, sinks, and other drains. Drains take a long time to drain their contents. In the vicinity of the septic tank, there is standing water or areas of excessively wet terrain
  2. Heavy scents have been detected in the vicinity of the septic tank. Even in the midst of a drought, the bright green grass surrounding the tank is apparent.

These are only a few indications that your septic system need maintenance, and that you should contact a professional plumber to promptly identify and correct the problem. This can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.

But how can you fix a septic back up yourself?

One thing to keep in mind is that a backed-up septic system may be dangerous to you, your family, and even animals in the house or neighboring regions if not addressed immediately. A septic failure may happen to anybody at any time. It occurs when untreated sewage is discharged and transferred to a place where it is not intended to exist. This can result in sewage finding its way into groundwater, surface water, or even lakes and other bodies of water – all without you being aware that anything is amiss!

When you notice a drain is slower than usual or has even stopped all together, it’s time to find where the problem is and how you can fix it.

  1. Isolate the source of the problem. Begin by taking a peek inside the tank and determining the level of the contents. If the tank level is low, the obstruction is located between the house and the tank. A clogged septic tank indicates a “downstream” problem
  2. Is the electricity to the septic tank operational? If not, it is recommended to get it serviced. What’s the deal with your float switch? Is it up and running properly? If you reset both of these components, your system may be able to get back into gear. If you are unable to diagnose the problem on your own, a professional can aid you through the use of cameras and other specialized instruments to assist you. In addition to identifying and resolving the problem, they will also resolve the issue.

Snaking the drain is a simple remedy that may be undertaken by the average person. Unclogging a drain using a snake is one method that experts employ to clear a clogged pipe. A snake may be obtained at any hardware or home improvement store with relative ease. Inspect and clear up clogged drains using the tool, which will efficiently push the blockage from the drain and free up the pipes. If this does not resolve the issue, it is possible that a more serious problem is causing the sluggish drain.

To keep your septic tank free of backups, be mindful of these following steps.

  1. Never flush waste down the toilet or into the septic system. The septic system is intended solely for the disposal of human waste. Because it is biologically active by nature, it will decompose over time, whereas rubbish will not decompose at all. Always check to see if your septic tank is biologically active before using it. Using antibacterial soaps will actually destroy the bacteria that is preventing your septic system from being clogged in the first place. Instead of washing your hands with antibacterial soap, use it to clean the tank itself. Planting trees or other plants in close proximity to your septic tank is not recommended. Make sure to keep an eye out for tree roots if there is any existing landscaping near the tank. Due of their need to find water and nutrients contained inside the pipes, they might cause punctures to occur within the pipes. Keep the area above the pipes and sewage lines free of obstructions. Heavier gear can crush and ruin pipes, causing significant damage to your septic system.

The Water Out expert clean up crews are ready to assist you if you find yourself in the position where your septic tank has become clogged and cleaning is required immediately. We have received extensive training in proper clean-up procedures to keep diseases away from your family. Our professionals are trained and qualified to remove any and all garbage from your residence. It is critical that you delegate the cleanup of sewage to specialists from the Water Out team in order to ensure your own safety!

No words can express how strongly we believe that homeowners should avoid attempting to clean up raw sewage on their own.

5 Ways to Avoid a Septic Backup

When your home is crowded with guests and family, the last thing you want is a septic backup that causes a mess. While we’re pleased to assist you in getting out of a bad position, charging after-hours service prices over the Christmas season (and sacrificing time with our own families!) is not something we enjoy doing. In order to prevent an expensive holiday backup and to spend more time with your loved ones, here are five tips to keep everything running smoothly this Christmas season: For more information, please continue reading, or contact us right now to book a regular pumping before the holidays approach!

  1. Be Wary of What You Flush Down the Toilet.
  2. This includes feminine supplies, paper towels, and make-up wipes, among other things.
  3. 2.
  4. Were you aware that the day after Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year for plumbing companies?
  5. You should pay special attention to food leftovers and oil if you intend on cooking, and avoid using the garbage disposal.
  6. 3.
  7. If you know you’ll be hosting a large number of people, particularly overnight visitors who will want more showers than normal, attempt to do your laundry a few days ahead of time to save time.

Please postpone any additional water consumption, such as washing your car, watering your lawn, or doing your laundry, until after your guests have left.

Have your septic tank pumped before the holidays arrive.

Call ahead and have your septic tank flushed at least one week before you plan to have guests to guarantee a hassle-free Christmas season for everyone.

Add a Septic System Additive to the mix.

Natural microorganisms included in septic tank additives aid in the breakdown of particles in the tank’s interior.

Maintaining a backup will be the last thing on your mind over the Christmas season if you follow these easy guidelines.

Check out our FAQ page for more information, including extra advice and answers to all of your septic-related inquiries. And don’t forget to give us a call at (717-892-2788) for all of your septic requirements. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

What to do When Your Septic Tank Backs Up – Septic Tank Spill Cleanup

Septic tanks are a way of life for many people in rural regions, and for good reason. The most of the time, they are out of sight and out of mind. That is, unless something goes wrong and the septic tank begins to back up into the house. Then there’s an issue, and then there’s a big mess. In addition, there is the matter of what to do. If your septic tank does begin to back up, there are a few things you may take to resolve the situation.

How a Septic Tank Works

The first step in resolving a septic problem is to have an understanding of how a septic tank truly operates and functions. A septic system is composed of three components:

  1. Your toilet, sink, and tub all have lines or pipes that go from them that use gravity to transport waste outdoors to a holding tank. The holding tank that serves as a bacterial chamber for the breakdown of solids
  2. The holding tank Then there’s the disposal field, which distributes liquids such that they may be absorbed into the earth over time. In the event of a blockage or obstruction in any one of these components, a septic backup will occur.

Types of Septic Tanks

There are three basic types of septic tank materials: concrete, plastic, and metal. The first is made of concrete, the second of fiberglass, and the third is made of polycarbonate plastic. The difference between them is the pricing range they provide as well as the strength or durability of their products. All of them do the same task of collecting waste and separating solids from liquids, but the materials used in their construction have no influence on their ability to provide backup. It is the overall design of your septic tank “system” that makes the most impact in the frequency of septic tank backups.

One is straightforward and relies on gravity to empty your waste into a holding tank.

Because it is pressurized, the second septic system is more complicated than the first.

Gravity feeds the liquid from the overflowing tank into a second, smaller tank downstream.

Steps to Take When Fixing a Septic Tank

Now that you understand how septic systems function and whatever type you have, you must identify the source of the problem and take the necessary actions to correct it.

  1. Isolate the source of the obstruction. To begin, open the tank lid and check the amount of the liquid within the tank. If the tank level is low, this indicates that there is a barrier upstream between the home and the tank. If the tank is completely filled, you’ll have a downstream problem
  2. Look for a power interruption or a jammed float switch to rule out. Usually, restoring one of these will restore your system to its previous state
  3. Inviting a professional with the skills and instruments to externally remove the obstruction is a good idea. This involves the use of cameras to determine the exact source and position of the obstruction, as well as augers to remove the impediment.

Septic Tank Backup Prevention

The most critical action you can take is to avoid a septic tank backlog from occurring in the first place, as described above. Here are some recommendations for prevention:

  • Always check to see that your septic tank is still biologically active. Use of antibacterial soaps and cleansers that leak into the tank is discouraged. Never use the system to dispose of rubbish or other alien things. By their very nature, human waste is biologically active, but raw food scraps are not. Garburators are extremely dangerous criminals. Planting trees in close proximity to your sewage lines is not recommended. It is well known that tree roots will search for water and nutrients within sewage pipes. You should avoid operating heavy machines over sewer lines since they will puncture and obstruct them in no time. Moreover, lines are readily crushed and damaged

With a little forethought, you can ensure that your septic tank continues to function for an extended period of time with little or no maintenance. That’s exactly what it’s intended to do.

What Causes a Septic Tank Backup? Prevention Tips for Homeowners

The septic tank in your home is an essential component of your plumbing system. Its primary function is to retain all of the sewage that exits your home while also breaking down particles into liquid before releasing them into the earth. In most cases, the tank is buried underground and is built of plastic or concrete. It is located around ten feet away from your home. Assuming all goes according to plan, the filtered wastewater will make its way into your home’s drain field (also known as a leach field).

Aseptic tank backup, on the other hand, might occur if your drains get clogged or if you have other problems.

Here are some suggestions for prevention as well as warning indications.

Some of these concerns are something you can entirely manage, while others are things that are completely out of your hands. Septic tanks are intended to last 20-40 years, but if they are not properly maintained, they can collapse much more quickly than that.

Tree Roots Growing Into Your Pipes

Tree roots can grow into damaged pipes and restrict the flow of water if the pipes are not properly maintained. Tree roots can extend quite a distance from the location where the tree was first planted. For example, if you have a fracture in your drain line, a tree root may be able to grow into it and produce a blockage. If a tree root becomes entangled in your pipes, you’ll need to have your line fixed or replaced, depending on how long the root has been in the pipe.

Garbage Disposal Issues

It is possible for food that is too big to pass through an open sewer pipe to clog and block the line. Make sure you don’t overload your trash disposal with food, and that the food is tiny enough to be broken down adequately by the garbage disposal before you put it in. What if I told you that the most common cause of a septic tank backlog is inappropriate disposal of human waste, grease, or other fat? Having saying that, do not throw grease down the sink or toilet. It doesn’t matter how well you wash your pans; heated cooking oil or grease might harden when they cool.

See also:  How Often Do You Have To Empty A Septic Tank? (TOP 5 Tips)

Foreign Objects Causing Clogs

Solids that are not flushable can cause a significant septic tank problem. Everything else should be flushed down the toilet, except for solid waste and toilet paper! If you identify it early enough and there are no other problems, though, a clogged drain is a very straightforward problem to resolve. To ensure that your toilet paper is septic-safe, you may do a fast test using a small container of water. Fill a jar halfway with water, then add a few squares of toilet paper to the top. To determine which type of toilet paper dissolves the fastest, you should experiment with a variety of kinds of toilet paper in a variety of containers.

This means that it will be less likely to accumulate in your tank and create problems.

Water Overflow and Increased Usage

Using a lot of water throughout the day — for example, doing numerous loads of laundry, running the dishwasher, and taking multiple showers in a day – may cause your system to get overloaded. If you have guests coming to stay with you, make sure to spread out your water use correctly to avoid the system from overflowing during their visit. Make careful to measure the capacity of your tank in order to determine how much water you can use without overburdening your septic system.

Flooding After Heavy Rainfall

Heavy rains might also put a strain on your system. If there is an excessive amount of rain, your soil may get oversaturated. Because the dry soil absorbs the liquid wastewater, wet soil increases the likelihood of drainage problems in the future.

Dangers of Septic System Backups

If you have a septic system backup, it is possible that the backup will make its way into your home at some point. The latter is especially true if your home has a basement. You and your family’s health might be jeopardized by a sewage backlog situation. The water in your septic tank is intended for the disposal of human waste. This means that it is frequently contaminated with germs or viruses that might make you sick if consumed or can irritate your skin if applied topically. Furthermore, if a sewage backup makes its way into your basement, you face the chance of suffering from water damage or mold growth in your home.

Consider having a plumber evaluate your pipes if you feel you have a pipe leak or blockage. This will ensure that something seemingly little does not become a major problem.

How to Prevent Septic Tank Backups

The most effective strategy to avoid septic tank backups is to have your septic system maintained on a regular basis. Make sure to get your septic tank cleaned out every three to five years to avoid any problems. Clogs in septic tanks may be avoided with regular pumping. Additionally, with frequent maintenance, we can identify deterioration. In addition to getting your system pumped, there are a few basic things you can do to maintain a proactive attitude. Showers and tubs can benefit from the installation of a hair catcher to keep extra waste from blocking the drain pipes.

It’s also crucial to keep the area around your drain field protected.

It is possible that compacting the earth will prevent the water from flowing as intended.

Warning Signs of a Septic Backup

The presence of a septic or sewage backlog can be indicated by several distinct indications and symptoms. Keep an eye out for any one of these problems or a combination of them.

  • A clogged toilet or clogged drain A foul odor emanating from your property
  • A shady green region with puddles of water
  • Standing water in your yard, particularly near the lid of your septic tank
  • Showers and sinks backing up, especially if the water is foul-smelling or black in color
  • Water backing up in your bathtub or sink

If you see more than one of these indicators at the same time, you should contact The Original Plumber immediately away for assistance.

Call The Original Plumber

In the event that your septic tank becomes clogged, calling a plumber is the most effective solution. Our experienced staff in Atlanta is equipped with the necessary gear and skills to manage septic systems in a safe manner. Allow us to take care of any sewage or septic difficulties you may be experiencing so you can relax. The Original Plumber is ready for emergency septic repair services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Septic Tank Back Up: Top 5 Warning Signs

Drain Clogs are a common problem. Clogged drains are a prominent symptom of septic system difficulties, and they are also one of the most prevalent issues that homeowners encounter on a regular basis. A blocked drain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • An blockage in the line induced by a build-up of pressure between the item and the inner circle of the pipe causes the obstruction. A diaper that gets trapped in the drain pipe is an example. A single diaper cannot be fed through the line because there is just too much material. An blockage in a pipe created by an accumulation of material at the site of a flaw in the pipe’s construction. It is possible that the flaw falls into a number of distinct categories
  • An intrusion (barb, pipe fragment, root) in the pipe that has the potential to â€catch†debris A â€belly†in the pipe, which occurs when the slope of the pipe is so small that gravity is no longer able to carry away waste particles
  • A collapsed or disconnected sewage pipe may go undiscovered for a longer period of time than the majority of people believe. It is possible that the sewage pipe will completely collapse over time. Learn more about our trenchless pipe repair to discover how you can save thousands of dollars on your repair expenditures.

Fortunately, unclogging a clogged drain is by far the most straightforward issue to resolve. 2. Back-up of sewage Drains that are too slow to drain or that are blocked are both examples of sewage backup. Whenever odorous black water arrives in your drain, bathtub, or toilet, it is considered to be a sewage backlog. There is a problem somewhere in your septic tank, one of its components, or your drainfield, and you need to fix it. A septic specialist should be contacted as soon as possible. The presence of standing ground water near a septic tank The presence of stagnant ground water in a concentrated area that is having difficulty draining is a symptom that your drainfield is not operating correctly or is leaking, or that your septic tank is backed up and leaking.

Unpleasant Smells Septic difficulties might be indicated by the presence of foul-smelling aromas in and around your property.

The presence of odors outside your home may indicate the presence of a septic or drainage problem.

A swath of very green grass Septic tank or drainfield sewage leaks are frequently indicated by an excessively green patch of grass on your property.

That section of your lawn will get more lush and green as a result of the overfertilization, as compared to the rest of your yard. If you ever suffer any of these issues, contact Stamie E. Lyttle Co. for assistance in diagnosing and resolving your issues!

4 SIGNS OF SEPTIC SYSTEM PROBLEMS

Moving into a property with a septic system is something that should never be done without taking the necessary measures, regardless of whether you are an experienced septic user or a complete novice. Before purchasing a home, you should engage a professional to do a complete septic system assessment to ensure that everything is in working condition and that the system has been cleaned and pumped on a regular basis. However, there are certain symptoms of problems that you may be able to discover on your own before paying for a professional evaluation.

  1. It’s best to move on to the next possible home if you observe some or all of these four symptoms and the seller refuses to acknowledge that there could be an issue.
  2. Septic problems that arise as a result of a system that has been ignored for decades can frequently cause problems with the drains.
  3. Because these pipes are meant to carry only water and not sludge, they are susceptible to being partially or completely blocked.
  4. Even though the drains appear to be functioning well, it is still recommended that you get an examination done.
  5. If the odors are coming from within the home (perhaps originating from the drains), they are more likely to be coming from outside, near the septic tank or leach field.
  6. Standing water or marshy areas should be avoided.
  7. Water can indicate that the system is leaking, deteriorating, or that it was not correctly built or designed, and so is not capable of adequately treating wastewater.

This additional water has the potential to overload the system and poison the surrounding communities.

Problems with Well Water If you live in an area that isn’t served by city sewage lines, there’s a good possibility that a private well is located on the same property as the septic system, which makes sense.

In the event that your septic system fails, the groundwater may become contaminated, resulting in unexpected findings when you test the well water.

If this is the case, you’ll need to investigate the septic system more as well as looking for other potential sources of contamination.

At this point, a malfunctioning septic system might be in such terrible shape that it will require complete replacement.

Whether you want further information about septic issues and inspections, or you require a regular everyday septic pumping service, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or online now.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON’T PUMP YOUR SEPTIC TANK?

By Admin on November 12, 2020 Your efforts to live as environmentally conscious as possible, as a responsible homeowner, are likely already underway, with practices such as recycling, composting, and purchasing energy-efficient equipment among your list of accomplishments. As a septic tank owner, you want to be sure that anything you put into your tank and septic field is causing the least amount of ground contamination as is reasonably practicable. Fortunately, there are a number of modest improvements you can do immediately to make your septic system even more ecologically friendly than it already is.

Have your septic tank inspected and pumped on a regular basis.

A bigger septic tank with only a couple of people living in your house, for example, will not require pumping as frequently as a smaller septic tank or as a septic tank that must manage the waste products of multiple family members will require.

When in doubt about how often to pump your septic tank, consult with a professional for advice.

In addition to locating and repairing any damage, a professional can ensure that the septic field is in good working order and that your septic tank is functional, large enough to handle your family’s waste, and not causing any unwanted pollution in nearby ground water.

Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet or down the toilet.

Items that are not biodegradable are unable to properly decompose in the septic tank and might cause the system to get clogged.

In addition to causing issues in your house, septic system backups can damage ground water in the area surrounding your septic field.

Towels made of paper Products for feminine hygiene Grease or fats are used in cooking.

grinds from a cup of coffee Even if you have a trash disposal, the food scraps that you flush down the drain and bring into your septic system may cause unanticipated harm to your plumbing system.

Food scraps can enhance the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater, which can disturb the natural bacterial balance of the septic tank, among other things.

Water conservation should be practiced.

Exceedingly large amounts of water use will interfere with the normal flow of wastewater from your home into your septic tank.

Limiting the amount of time you spend in the shower and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, as well as purchasing a smaller dishwasher and washing machine that use less water, are all simple strategies to reduce water use in your home.

The following are some basic steps you can take to make your septic system more ecologically friendly: save water, maintain your septic system and tank, and recycle wastewater. To get answers to any of your septic tank-related issues, get in touch with the experts at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.

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