When property owners plan maintenance of their septic systems, they usually think about the tank. However, the drain field is just as important to the system, and it also needs attention and care. To help you understand the importance of this, the septic repair team at All Clear Pumping & Sewer in Jefferson City, MO, have explained what to expect when drain fields fail and the most common reasons behind system failure.

What to Know About Drain Field Failure in Septic Systems

What to Expect

The drain field serves an important purpose by distributing treated wastewater back into the ground so that it safely trickles down into the water table. The field fails when it is no longer able to handle the volume of liquid that is sent to it from the septic tank. When it fails, the ground will become wet and mushy. The grass may grow green and lush in the area since it is saturated with water and nutrients, and the area may begin to smell like sewage. The plumbing inside the home may also start to back up in extreme cases.

Why It Happens

Drain fields fail for several reasons. For one, the septic tank may stop working and clog the drainage area. Trees and vegetation near the field can also damage the underground plumbing of the drain field when the roots grow into the pipes. Finally, the drain field may become oversaturated if the septic system gets too much use. It’s only designed to handle so much waste at a time, and when too many people are using it in a short period, or if the home uses an excess of water, then the field will become overwhelmed.

It’s up to you to make sure that your drain field and the rest of your system is being properly cared for. The staff at All Clear Pumping & Sewer are the local experts in septic systems. Whether you need septic pumping or need hydro-excavating for clogged plumbing, they can handle it. They carry only top-of-the-line products and have a team of trusted, dependable professionals. Contact them at (573) 443-2660 to schedule an estimate.