Individual septic systems trap and treat household wastewater. If maintained properly, they can last for many years. However, it can be difficult to know if there’s something wrong with your system and when you should call a septic pumping service. Here are a few symptoms indicating it’s time to make the call beyond a normal maintenance schedule.

How to Tell If You Need Septic Pumping Service

1. Pooling Water

Water collecting around the drain field indicates the septic system isn’t working properly. By design, wastewater should remain hidden underground, so if excess water appears, there’s a good chance a clog is somewhere in the system. If the pooling water is closer to the tank, then it’s probably full. Solid waste clogs the exit to the drain field, and the extra moisture floats to the top and out of the tank. Other signs include moist areas and green grass around the tank.

2. Slow Drainage

Part of a septic system is the airflow throughout the pipes in your home. Clogging can reduce this flow, which causes pipes to gurgle and water to drain slowly. If the septic tank is at full capacity, there’s a chance that most of the drains in the house — sinks, toilets, and showers — won’t drain properly. If only one drain is working irregularly, have a plumber snake it. Avoid commercial drain-cleaning products since chemicals can kill the bacteria in the septic tank and create problems with the filtration system.

3. Bad Smells or Sewage Backup

These hints are more obvious, but hopefully, the septic system will never reach this level of disrepair. Smells accumulate once the waste rises to the top of the tank. A walk outside around the septic tank or drain field will yield results quickly. If you don’t notice this or other symptoms, sewage may back up and return to the drain it came from.

Calling a septic pumping service is always the smartest option if you encounter any of these symptoms. The experts at Tim Frank Septic Tank Cleaning in Huntsburg, OH, have been in business since 1966. As a family- owned and -operated company, they have the experience and equipment for both residential and commercial properties. Take advantage of their cost-effective maintenance programs and annual inspections. To schedule an estimate, call (440) 636-5111. Visit them online to learn more about their services.