We don’t think about our septic system very often. Who wants to think about sewage anyway? Knowing a little bit about your septic system can help you keep it in good working order and extend its life expectancy. This means that we must understand why septic tanks leak, and how to detect if they are leaking. Before we get to those aspects, it is important that we understand how septic tanks work.
How Does a Septic Tank Work?
Septic tanks are large tanks that hold wastewater and other solid matter until it is removed. The tank’s natural bacteria is responsible for reducing all solid matter to what is known as effluent water. This effluent water is released to the drain field and then filtered through the soil.
Balance is essential for a functioning septic system. It is crucial to maintain a balance between the wastewater entering the system and natural bacteria. The bacteria will not be able to cope with too much wastewater.
What Causes a Septic Tank to Leak?
Now that you have an understanding of how a septic tank works, let’s take a look at the possible reasons it might leak.
1. Delayed Maintenance
Delay in maintenance is a major factor in septic tank failures. It is recommended that septic tanks be cleaned at least once every three to five years. This helps to remove any solid waste that may have built up and can clog the system. The size of your tank as well as the water used will determine the time it takes to clean. A 1,500-gallon tank with four people will typically need to be pumped once every four years.
2. Use Too Many Cleanings Products
We have already mentioned that the natural bacteria in your septic tanks play a significant role in this system. Our septic tanks wouldn’t function without these natural bacteria. If we use too many cleaning products, the bacteria in our septic tanks die. The frequency of cleaning the septic tank will increase if we use too many cleaning products.
3. Pipes That Are Damaged
All components of your septic tank are connected by several pipes. There are many factors that can cause damage to any one of these pipes. They can also cause the system to leak wastewater if they become damaged. These are the most common causes.
How Do You Know If Your Septic Tank Is Leaking?
Let’s look at signs your septic tank might be leaking.
1. Odor
A strong odor is one of the most obvious signs. It is difficult to spot and can be quite unpleasant. It’s time for a professional to address the problem if you notice sewage in your yard.
2. Vegetation Growth
Another sign is excessive vegetative growth, even though it is less obvious.
3. Soggy Yard or Standing Water
You can tell if there is something wrong with your system by smelling soggy soil, standing water, or a drain field.
4. Slow Drainage
You may notice signs of a larger problem in your home. Slow draining water or water backing up are signs of a bigger problem.
It’s a smart idea to call the professionals if you have any of these symptoms, or if your tank hasn’t been cleaned in a while. We will inspect your septic system and make sure there are no leaks. Then, we’ll get it working like new.
This post was written by Tanner Brown. Tanner is the Owner and operator of Greenbar Excavation. Greenbar Excavation is a fully licensed, insured, and accredited excavation and Septic Service in Prineville, Oregon. Greenbar Excavation is one of the top Don’t look further, go with the company with your best interest in mind!