Maintaining your septic tank is a crucial part of being a homeowner. That means having experts perform regular inspections and cleanings to ensure the system works properly. You should also know the signs your tank is full so you can bring in professionals as needed. Below, the team at Price’s Septic Tank Service in Danielsville, GA, shares when pumping is required immediately.

How to Tell if Your Septic Tank Is Full

1. Slow-Moving Drainage

When you brush your teeth in the bathroom sink, does the water go down the drain as fast as you spit it out? Are you standing in puddles while you take a shower? If water pools and a clog is not the problem, your septic tank may be full. With limited space to go, the water will not drain from your sinks, bathtubs, and toilets as quickly as normal.

2. Bad-Smelling Yard

The area above the leach field shouldn’t feature standing water, but if it does, it may emit an unpleasant odor caused by the contents of the septic tank. This smell and standing water mean your tank is overflowing or clogged and needs to be pumped to make room for more sewage and gray water.

3. Backed-Up Sewage

Slow drains are a nuisance, but if sewage begins returning through the pipes, it’s a safety hazard and a definite sign of a full or malfunctioning septic system. Fortunately, you can usually detect this issue via smell before any wastewater makes its way into your kitchen sink or bathtubs. This issue will typically occur in the lowest drains in the house before making its way upstairs.

Most residential septic tanks require pumping every three to five years, so stick to a consistent schedule to reduce the chances of overflowing. When the time comes for professional cleaning, get in touch with the staff at Price’s Septic Tank Service. The family-owned and -operated company has served Madison and Jackson counties for over six decades, and their state-certified, insured team will keep your wastewater system flowing smoothly. Call (706) 789-3263 to schedule an appointment today, and visit their website for more details on the company and their services.