From too much toilet paper to the head of an action figure, your septic system can take a beating. Whether you own a commercial property or a home-backups can happen. When this arises, the best course of action is septic pumping. Here are five signs that it’s time to pump and dump.
1. It Stinks
If you walk outside and it smells like a cow pasture, and you aren’t on a farm-there may be a problem. The power of smell can help you determine that there is an issue with your septic system. Also, you don’t have to be outside to smell that something isn’t right. If the inside of your building or house-particularly when there is plumbing-smells like a sewer, then it’s time to call a drain specialist.
2. You Have a Makeshift Yard Pool
When your septic tank has reached capacity, thanks to the laws of physics, the water is pushed up to the surface. If you notice a large pool of water on your property or in your yard and it hasn’t rained-its most likely time for a septic pumping. As a side note, this isn’t a puddle that you should allow children (or adults) to play or step in-since you know what is flushed down those toilets.
3. Slow Draining
While completing simple tasks, like washing dishes or taking a shower, pay close attention to the drain. A slow drain can be the result of many things. Before you make the determination that your septic tank is in trouble, unclog the drain and use a septic-safe cleaner. After treating the drain, if takes a long time for the water to go down or you are still using a plunger-it may be time to check in on your septic system.
4. The Sewer is Backed-Up
This is the obvious (and the most disgusting) sign that your septic tank is overflowing. Check the lowest drains in your house or building. For example, look at the drains in bathrooms or kitchens that are in basements or on lower level floors. If you notice an awful smell, black water in the toilets, or a brownish color coming from faucets-call a professional.
5. The Grass is Greener
When your septic tank is installed, it’s usually underneath a bed of grass. If you notice that the bed of grass looks fantastic compared to the rest of your lawn-check your septic tank. Greener grass in the septic area is a sign that it’s getting fertilized thanks to the extra water.
Although your septic tank is a better choice for the environment, when it isn’t functioning properly it can do more harm than good. When it comes to septic pumping-unless you’re a professional, you are going to need some help. Contact a reputable sewage and septic team to come and assess your septic tank. They will be able to help you come map out a plan to treat and prevent a septic disaster.
