Some things in the home have their own way of telling you they need some assistance. A persistent dripping faucet, a constantly running toilet or a leaking roof all demand immediate attention. The septic tank also gives off its own warning signs when it needs to be emptied.
Regular pumping of the septic tank should be a part of your maintenance routine. Septic tanks need to be pumped periodically to remove the solid waste deposits that accumulate inside of the tank. Going too long between pumpings can put unnecessary stress on the entire septic system, resulting in backflow and even a shortened lifespan.
Unfortunately, many homeowners let too much time pass between maintenance appointments because the tank is forgotten, since it is underground and out of sight. Because of this, it’s very important that you’re able to recognize when the system is trying to tell you it’s time to empty the tank:
- Time: This is more of a rule, rather than a sign. An easy way to avoid backups is to plan to pump the septic tank every one to three years. The exact timeframe will depend on the age and usage of the unit. A specialist can recommend the right schedule for septic service in Bethel, OH.
- Slow draining and flushing: Does it seem like it takes an eternity for the tub or sink to fully drain? It might be a legitimate clog, or it could be an indication the tank needs to be emptied. Sluggish draining is one of the earliest and most innocuous-seeming signs of a nearly full tank.
- Gross smells: That unpleasant odor might be your septic system screaming for help. Odor-causing gasses have nowhere to go when the tank is full, so instead the smells begin to emanate from the drains, toilets and drain field. Not only is this incredibly unpleasant, but it can also pose a serious health risk.
- Standing water: Water will begin to pool around the tank and in the drain field as the septic tank nears its maximum capacity. The solid waste inside the tank can clog the drain field piping system, forcing the liquid up to the surface.
- Sewer backup: You’ll be faced with the disgusting reality of a sewage backup if you choose to ignore all of the other warning signs. Sewage backups occur when the tank is nearly full. It usually starts in the lowest drains first, like in the basement bathroom, before moving up through the house.
It’s important to call a professional for septic service in Bethel, OH immediately if you notice any of the previously mentioned signs. If you’re lucky, the problem can easily be fixed with a simple pumping. However, letting basic maintenance fall by the wayside for too long could have serious side effects.
The best course of action is to develop a regular maintenance schedule with the help of the septic experts at Gullett Sanitation Services Inc. We handle everything from care and maintenance to sludge disposal and new installations. Call us today to learn more!