Septic systems fail for a number of reasons, including inefficient installation, age, and lack of maintenance. A septic tank overloads without routine pumping, resulting in costly leaks, plumbing backups, and flooded drain fields among other problems. Learn what to do during septic system failure to minimize property damage.

What to Do When Your Septic System Fails

1. Call the Local Health Department

Contact your local health department first for a professional assessment. Experts from this department provide invaluable tips for remedying the situation and may advise you to alert your neighbors depending on the problem’s severity.

2. Turn Off the Water & Schedule Repairs

Prevent more wastewater from entering your septic tank by turning off your water main. Fill large pitchers and containers with water before shutting down the main so you have it for drinking and washing your hands. Contact a pumping service to make septic tank repairs. They will pump out your tank and determine whether replacement is necessary. If the tank is old and severely cracked, for example, it will require replacement. If it overloaded but is otherwise in good condition, pumping will suffice.

3. Request Water Damage Services

Stay away from flooded areas of your home, if applicable, due to raw sewage exposure. Shut the door to your basement and use baby gates to keep children and pets out of contaminated spaces. Call for water damage remediation services as soon as possible to recover damaged items, disinfect contaminated areas, and prevent mold and mildew growth. It takes about 48 hours for mold and mildew to flourish in dark, damp conditions. Water damage remediation also avoids health problems from sewage exposure.

Prevent septic system failure in the future by educating yourself on the warning signs, including sewage odors in the home and lush, bright-green grass over the drainfield. Work with the reliable septic system repair and pumping service team at A-1 Pumping Service and Drain Cleaning in Dalton, GA. The family-owned and -operated company has served homes and businesses in the Whitfield County area for over 20 years. Call (706) 272-3352 to schedule services or visit the business online for details. Follow the Twitter feed for excellent tips and resources.