Septic systems are a great option for many people, especially if you live in an area not adequately served by a sewage system, and they are intended to be something you can rely on for decades — and not be constantly top-of-mind. However, they are not infallible and don’t last forever.
Fortunately, if you know what to look for and you’re in tune with your system, you can spot the signs of how to know when it’s time to start the process of replacing your septic tank. Little’s will be glad to help with both the excavation of your existing system and installation of a new one.
Seeing or smelling raw sewage
This is the easiest way to know something is amiss with your system. It may be something fixable from a maintenance perspective … or it may be time for a new septic tank. Either way, we can help!
Seeing unexpected puddles in your yard
Short of heavy rain or heavy artificial watering of your grass, there shouldn’t be puddles in your yard, especially around a septic tank. It means your system is overloaded and, especially if it’s older, time for a reset. It’s worth noting this problem won’t go away by ignoring it and will only get worse.
Hearing gurgling from your drains
This could mean raw sewage is clogging your drains, which is a problem that must be fixed as soon as possible.
There are many things that can cause septic backups, and we address some of them in our “messy septic backups” article here.
Contaminated fresh water sources
If and when your septic tank goes belly-up, ground water in the area will take on the properties of the wastewater. If you come to discover this, call us immediately!
Greener grass in specific spots on your lawn
When the drain field in your septic system begins to go kaput, more moisture will filter into your soil, which the grass will love but is a sign something is worth checking out. Additionally, if you notice grass growing faster in certain parts of your lawn than others, especially suddenly, it may mean sewage from a failing septic tank is acting as a fertilizer.
Slow drains in your house
This could, of course, mean you have a routine blockage or clogging pipe. But if all your sinks and tubs are draining more slowly than usual, it could mean water is moving more slowly through a filling or full septic tank. Again, check out this article for some common causes of slow drains.
Age of the system
It’s normal for septic tanks to last for many years, even decades. This of course doesn’t always happen and there are many variables involved in the life of a septic system. Regardless of the age of your septic system, keep a sharp eye out for the aforementioned symptoms and try to cut any issues off at the pass.
It’s worth mentioning some of these issues could be symptomatic of minor issues that could be repaired without replacing the entire system. Either way, we can help, and would be happy to diagnose whatever might ail your septic system.
Assess and protect your septic system!
Having a regular schedule for professional septic systems inspections is one the most important things you can do. Routine inspections can not only keep your system in good working order, but they can also help identify areas that may lead to issues down the road.
Little’s has been providing expert septic and excavation service in the broader Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia Tri-State area since 1963. Contact us now to scheduled your appointment. Call us at 888-548-8570 or send us a message here.