5 Signs That Your Septic Tank Is Full
Septic tanks are an effective way to manage liquid and solid waste in your home. However, these sewer systems have one major drawback. They have a limited capacity. You, therefore, need to empty the tank occasionally. Here are five signs of a full septic tank.
1. Slow Drains
Drains in your house should flow easily and fast. If they're slow, that could be a sign of a full septic tank. It could also mean that you have a clogged drainpipe. Always check how many slow drains you have in the house. If it's only one, then a clogged pipe could be the problem, and if it's more than one drain, then your septic tank could be full.
2. Bad Odor
One of the most apparent signs of a full septic tank is a foul odor around the septic tank. When the septic tank gets full, it eventually causes a foul odor inside and outside your house. The smell is unpleasant and can be harmful to your health. Additionally, the odor could be a sign of a septic tank leak. Be sure to seek septic system services to help you determine the cause.
3. Marshy Areas Around the Tank
If your septic tank overflows, it creates a pool of water near the surrounding areas. Marshy areas can also occur due to blocked pipes or septic tank leaks. Marshy pools are hazardous as pets and kids can run through them and potentially harm their health.
4. Lush Green Areas Over the Drainfield
When your septic tank is in good condition, you shouldn't be able to map out your drain field. But if the septic tank is full, the lawn above the drain field looks greener than the rest of your yard. The lush green area occurs due to the extra nutrients the grass gets from the leaking septic tank wastewater.
5. Sewage Backup
A sewage backup is a late sign of a full septic tank. It occurs if you have ignored all the other warning signs. When the septic tank gets full, the sewage tries to find somewhere to escape through. Thus, the sewage flows back through the pipes and produces a gurgling sound that becomes regular with time. If you ignore these sounds, the problem might escalate and result in sewage flooding your house.
You should, therefore, regularly inspect your septic tank for any signs of overflow. If you notice any of the above signs, be sure to schedule an appointment with professional septic system services.