A backup is one of the worst-case scenarios you can face with your septic system, but this problem rarely occurs without warning. As inconvenient and unsanitary as this situation may be, there are a few key signs you can keep an eye on to make sure it doesn't get any worse than it already is. Keep your system in top shape, and avoid serious cleanup duties with the help of these early indicators.

How to Spot a Septic Backup

1. Clogged Drains

Clogs happen all the time for various reasons, so you'll want to rule out everyday plumbing problems before looking for further signs of a potential backup. The key is determining whether a single fixture is clogged or if other drains and fixtures throughout the building show related signs of sluggishness. If you have a more widespread clogging problem, you're likely dealing with an issue at the heart of the septic system.

2. Standing Water in Your Yard

Unless it recently rained, you shouldn't notice any standing water in your yard. Take note if you see any around the septic tank's drain field area, which could point toward septic system leaks, drainage issues, or serious backup concerns.

3. Over-Fertilized Lawn

Along similar lines, be wary of areas of your yard with unusually lush grass patches, particularly along the drain field. When a backup causes sewage to leak into this area of the yard, it results in over-fertilized grass that will look much healthier and greener than everything else surrounding it.

4. Foul Odors

Have you noticed any strange smells both inside and outside of the home? Interior odors are one of the most common warning signs of backups, letting homeowners know they need to act immediately before the problem gets any messier. Exterior odors may point to a backup, drainage issues, or both; so, it's always worth setting up a professional septic inspection.

5. The Appearance of Sewage

One of the worst-case scenarios for backup is the appearance of sewage, which is both inconvenient and unsanitary. Backup can cause sewage to emerge from drains throughout the home, so take action and get in touch with an emergency septic service as soon as possible.

Whenever you have a problem with your septic system, you can count on the professionals at Uncasville, CT's P & H Construction and Septic Service to take care of it swiftly and effectively. Their certified technicians have over 35 years of experience helping residential and commercial clients throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island, and they place customer service and satisfaction above all else. Visit them online for an overview of their services, and call them at (860) 848-8507 to schedule an appointment today.