The answer for your wastewater needs
Serving Maple Valley & Surrounding Areas

Blog Post

Telltale Signs of Septic System Failure

  • By Admin
  • 03 Mar, 2022
Septic System Failure — Aqua Test Inc — Maple Valley, WA

Septic systems require consistent maintenance. Otherwise, you risk costly failures. When your system malfunctions, the septic releases contaminants to the environment and poses a danger to human and animal health. Be keen to notice any signs that indicate a failed septic system to solve the root problem before it gets out of hand. Below are some of the indicators.

Water or Sewage Backflow

When your septic system fails, wastewater and sewage no longer enter the tank. Instead, they stay inside the pipes and then come out. As a result, the waste backflows into the sinks, drains, and toilets. The wastewater backflow is from a clogged pipe or a full drainfield, among other factors:

  • A clogged pipe. This situation happens if a blockage happens between your premises and the septic tank. For instance, if you toss difficult-to-flush items like wipes or tampons in your toilet, they are likely to make your lines clog. In older systems, plant roots too can clog your pipe.
  • A filled drainfield. If too much water gets into your drainfield within a short time — maybe when a heavy downpour happens, or your water usage has increased abruptly — your drainfield may become overloaded.

Unusual Spongy Drains and Algae

Greener grass above the septic may be a sign of leaks from your system unless you have seeded the area or removed the cover. Noticing this sign may not be easy since grass is naturally green. Nevertheless, the wastewater results in an unusual degree of greenness that doesn't match the tone of other grass in your lawn.

If you live near a water source like a pond or a river, look for instant algae blooms. Wastewater enhances abnormal algae growth. The algae proliferation makes the water appear overly contaminated with algae, unlike normal algae growth.

Rotten Egg Smell

The presence of strong, nasty odors around your lawn and plumbing appliances may mean that your septic system has failed. The gross smell may indicate that sewage has crested the tank and risen into your central drain line.

Other issues that may result in bad smells include:

  • Frozen roof vents
  • Leakages
  • Damaged inspection pipe caps
  • Filled tanks

The failure of the system to remove biological materials from the wastewater properly may also cause a rotten egg smell.

Slow Drains

If you notice that water slowly leaves one of the drains in your premises, check whether the issue cuts across other areas. If it is only one outlet, the case could be with that specific part. However, if the problem occurs in other drains, the problem probably lies in your septic system.

Failures and concealed issues can make your septic tank slow to drain wastewater. For example, the pipe that flows into the tank may have some blockage.

Water Pools or Dampness in the Yard

A failed septic tank does not absorb wastewater effectively. As a result, wastewater is likely to seep from the ground. After heavy rain, water may stand on your lawn, and that's perfectly normal. However, if you find puddles on days of no rain, the water could be from your septic system.

The root problem could be:

  • Pump failure
  • Excess water intake
  • An undersized tank
  • Improper system elevations

Gurgle Sounds

Gurgle sounds in drains and plumbing appliances may be signs of failure. In many cases, your system is full or almost full. Another common cause for the sounds is stuck debris. Ensure you pay attention to odd sounds like that of a stomach upset or gurgles from your septic system.

Frequent inspection and good maintenance of your septic tank system ensure you can avoid major issues and prolong its lifetime. If you need an excellent contractor to inspect, install, or repair your system, look no further than The Nibbler Company. We are always prepared to serve your septic system needs.

By Wilmar Rivera 20 Dec, 2023
For homeowners who rely on well water, ensuring its purity is paramount. Read on to learn what factors contribute to your well water quality.
By No Author 23 Oct, 2023
When a drain field becomes clogged, it causes a cascade of problems. Discover how a clogged drain field can affect the septic tank in our blog.
By Admin 10 Aug, 2023
Trees are one of the things that can affect your septic system. Read on to learn what you need to know about trees and your septic system.
By No Author 15 Jun, 2023
Septic tank maintenance is crucial to longevity. Discover how excess water can compromise your septic tank's functionality and what to do in this blog.
By Admin 02 May, 2023
Some properties in rural communities typically have a septic tank. Discover septic tank specifications to consider when buying a home.
By Admin 29 Mar, 2023
A backup in your septic system could spell serious trouble. Read this blog to learn the signs and causes of septic system backups.
By Admin 20 Dec, 2022
A good septic system will prevent wastewater leakage and the spread of bacteria or harmful gases in your place. Read this blog to learn about your options.
By Admin 12 Oct, 2022
Pet owners must take extra care of their septic tanks. Discover how pets can affect your septic system and see some tips to prevent damage.
By Admin 02 Aug, 2022
Whether you want to install a new septic tank or need professional septic services, check out some factors to consider when picking a septic tank company.
By Admin 13 Jun, 2022
Your septic tank's natural bacteria break down organic waste into gas and liquid. Learn how and why household chemicals can disturb this bacterial balance.
Show More
Share by: