So now that we know how our septic system works, it is important to know what happens when the system begins to show signs of failing. When your septic system fails, it can not only be nasty, it can also be smelly, dangerous and really should be avoided at all costs.

A septic system is considered to be failing when it can no longer treat and distribute waste water effectively.  This point of the septic system is to treat waste and distribute it effectively as to not cause a health hazard by contaminating drinking water, lakes, and nearby streams.

So how do you know if your septic tank is showing signs of failure?  In this article, you will learn the signs that your tank my be failing and what does it mean when we say your septic system failed.

Septic Tank Failure Signs

If you notice any of these signs, give Elite Septic a call and let us come out and let us perform an inspection for you.

Smell

If you can smell sewage, you might have an impending septic system problem on your hands.

Standing/Pooling Water

If you find patches of standing water, wet ground (often smelly) in the drain field, then you will want to have a professional perform an inspection on your system.  Why? If this pooling water is in fact your system failing, then you have a potential health hazard and a professional is going to be needed to determine the extent of damage to your system.

The grass is greener

When you find pooling water in your drainfield, you are also more than likely to find greener grass, as the ground is increasing in the amount of moisture in it. You may notice excessive plant growth a few weeks prior to any other symptoms you may experience.

Gurgling in the pipes

Gurgling within the septic tank when your system is too full of solids and cannot work properly.

Your toilet flushes a little slower

This is an important one to pay attention to. If your toilet refuses to flush, you could be dealing with an impending backup.  In this situation, sewage backs up through your toilet and enters your home causing a health hazard and a horrible clean up experience.

If you experience any of these 5 symptoms give Elite Septic a call at 678-956-4608 and let us perform an inspection on your system. We will not only let you know what we find, but will be more than happy to discuss your options and what it means.

It is extremely important to maintain the service on your septic system every 3 -5 years to prevent your septic system from experiencing symptoms of septic failure.  Preventive measures can save a fortune in the long run.