Why Septic Systems Fail
The main cause of septic system failure is lack of maintenance. Regular septic tank inspections and pump outs are essential to a maintaining the health of your system. The EPA recommends conventional systems be pumped every 3 – 5 years. A septic professional can recommend how often your system should be pumped based upon household size, wastewater generated, tank size and the volume of solids in your wastewater.
Septic tanks require pumping when the solids and sludge that accumulate in the tank begin to reach capacity. Without regular pump outs, the system can become clogged resulting in drain backups, system damage, drainfield failure and environmental contamination.
Signs of System Failure
If you notice any of the following symptoms, your septic system may be malfunctioning and you should call a septic professional.
- Slow drains
- Pooling water over the septic tank
- Bad smells coming from your yard
- Sewage backup into your home
- Gurgling pipes
- Trouble flushing
- Bright green, spongy grass on the drainfield
Who Do I Call if My Septic System Has Failed?
If you suspect your system is malfunctioning, call a local septic professional for an inspection and repair or replacement. If you have concerns about the impact on your health or the environment, contact your local department of health.
What Do I Do If My House Has Flooded?
If you have sewage backing up into your house, contact a local plumber and your local health department for guidance on cleanup. Be sure to avoid any contact with the wastewater which contains harmful bacteria that can make you very sick. During cleanup, protective clothing should be worn including long rubber gloves and face splash shields. After the area has been cleared, wash all clothing and equipment used in the clean-up and disinfect the exposed areas with a mixture of 90 percent water to 10 percent household bleach. Make sure to have your water tested by your local health department before drinking it.
Have septic system problems?
Trust the experts at Flamingo Plumbing. We’ve been proudly serving residential and commercial customers in Jacksonville and St. Augustine for over 20 years. We offer a full range of septic services for any size system including installation, maintenance, and repair.
Call Flamingo today at 904-647-5466.
