Your septic tank is part of a larger waste removal system connected to your home’s plumbing. The tank receives all of the waste flushed and drained from your house, which it separates into layers. Solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank to form sludge, while floatable matter such as oil and grease stay at the top. Wastewater travels from the tank through perforated pipes into a drainfield where it filters through the sand and soil. To keep this process running smoothly, it’s essential to empty the septic tank regularly. Here are a few signs it’s time to call a professional for maintenance.

How Do You Know When to Empty Your Septic Tank? 

1. Slow Drains

When a septic tank become too full, the wastewater leaving your home cannot enter the tank as quickly. This results in slow drains and potentially standing water issues that make tasks like showering and washing dishes more challenging than they should be.

2. Saturated Drainfield

If your septic tank can no longer accommodate incoming solid and liquid waste, the pipes leading to the drainfield can become clogged. This is especially true if too much wastewater enters the tank at one time, such as when friends are visiting use more water. Clogged pipes cause liquid in the drainfield to rise to the surface, resulting in a small backyard pond.

3. Sewage Odors

Sewage odors begin emanating through your household drains when you’ve gone too long in between septic cleanings. You may notice odors in your yard as well, such as around the septic tank or drainfield location.

4. Backed-Up Toilets & Drains

Backed-up toilets and drains often follow sewage odors because your septic tank is at capacity. Waste subsequently comes back through your plumbing to contribute to clogged toilets and slow drains.

5. Overly Green Grass

If your septic tank is so clogged that it starts to leak, bacterial enzymes will flow into your drainfield area to create exceptionally green, lush grass. Soggy, spongy soil that can no longer handle wastewater can also create too-green grass because wastewater rises to the surface.
 

If you notice these signs of septic tank failure, schedule cleaning with A-1 Pumping Service and Drain Cleaning today. This state-licensed, family-owned company has proudly served Whitfield County, GA, and the surrounding area for 23 years with honest pricing and outstanding services including septic tank installation, repair, and cleaning. Call (706) 272-3352 today to schedule an appointment or visit their website for service details.