Septic systems require routine maintenance to ensure they function properly. When you detect an issue, it’s imperative that you schedule a checkup immediately to prevent costly damages. Backups are common issues that plague septic tanks, particularly ones that are nearly full or already overflowing. Here is what you need to know if a backup happens in your home.  

Signs of a Backed Up Septic System

Sometimes it’s difficult to determine whether a septic system is backed up or failing. To know if you’re dealing with a backed up septic system, pay attention to the following signs:

• Slow Drains: A slow-moving drain often hints at trouble in your pipes or waste disposal system, so when it persists after repeated unclogging efforts, it’s time to take a look at your septic system.  

• Waste Backups: The septic system is designed to keep waste down. But, if gray water suddenly comes up your drains, sinks, tubs, and toilets, it means that your tank is having a hard time keeping everything in.

• Foul Odor: Another sign is an overpowering unpleasant odor emerging from your drains or near the leach field. What you’re smelling is partially broken down waste spilling out of the septic tank.

• Standing Water: Apart from foul smells, septic system backups manifest themselves through puddles of groundwater on your lawn or garden. It means that gray water has already risen to the surface because of an oversaturated soil in the leach field.

• Overly Lush Patches: When a septic tank overflows with waste, it nourishes surrounding vegetation with bacteria. So if you see an unusually green and lush patch on your lawn, it means that you have a leaking septic system.

How to Fix It

Once you spot the warning signs above, it’s better to call a trusted septic service provider for a quick, effective resolution. They will have the equipment and tools to inspect the entire system and clear out any obstructions. While waiting for them, consider opening the septic tank lid and checking for any blockage on either upstream or downstream. For pressurized systems, the issue can be traced to a stuck float switch or power interruption—try to restart electricity to get the system running again.

If you want to avoid such problems in the future, be sure to schedule septic pumping at least every two years to get rid of waste buildup at the bottom. Refrain from tossing non-biodegradable and bulky waste down the drains, and be wary of antibacterial soaps and medicines flushed down your sinks as these can deplete good bacteria in the tank, which undermines the breakdown of waste.

Are you looking for professional assistance on your backed up septic system? Count on the experts at P & H Septic Service. Based in Uncasville, CT, they provide an extensive range of septic services—from tank installations to leach field repair—to clients across New London County. Learn more about their offered services online or call (860) 848-8507 for emergency septic repair.