3 Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Repairs
When a septic tank is not working as it should, the results could be disastrous. To prevent septic tank–related disasters, it's important to make repairs right away when you notice that something is amiss.
Here are three signs that your septic tank needs repairs as soon as possible.
1. You Notice a Foul Smell
Even though your septic system deals with waste management, you should never notice an overpowering odor, especially inside your home. If you do notice a foul smell inside your home, it could mean the smells are coming from your septic tank and up through your toilets and drains. These smells are most likely a sign that it's time to pump your septic tank. If you smell a strong odor near your septic tank, it might be a sign the manhole is not sealed properly.
Anytime you notice a foul smell and you think your septic system is to blame, you should contact a professional who offers septic tank repair services. These foul odors might be an indication that the air contains gases that could be harmful to you and your family.
2. You Notice Slow-Moving Drains
There are many reasons for slow-moving drains. You might have hair, food, or other debris trapped in your drains or pipes. If you clear out your drains and they are still slow-moving, it might indicate you're in need of septic tank repair.
This is especially true if all the drains in your home are slow-moving. You may simply need to have your septic tank pumped. However, slow-moving drains could also be a sign that your septic system is overused or has a mechanical issue.
3. You Notice Wastewater in the Drains
Drains that have wastewater backing up into them are also an indication that you're in need of septic tank repair. Since wastewater carries bacteria and viruses that can cause major health issues, you should get your septic system inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
When wastewater backs up into the drains, it could mean that tree roots have broken through your septic tank. It could also mean your septic tank is damaged in other ways. Damage to the septic tank could be caused by a shift in the ground or a vehicle driving over the septic system.
Other causes of wastewater backing up into the drains include using more water than the septic system can handle or adding harsh chemicals to the septic system. No matter the reason for wastewater in the drains, you should take care of the problem right away.