Your septic tank plays a critical role in the wastewater disposal process. When your system’s working well, you rarely need to think about it. But when the tank becomes too full to do its job efficiently, you may begin to notice some signs of a problem. Here are four red flags that indicate it’s time to hire a plumber to pump the system.

When to Pump Your Septic Tank

1. Harsh Odors

Once the septic tank fills to capacity, any new waste has nowhere to go but back through the system. You’ll notice this in the form of strong, unpleasant odors reminiscent of raw sewage throughout the house. You can perform a quick scent inspection by sniffing the drains and outside near the drain field, both of which might be backed up if the tank is full.

2. Sluggish Drainage

When the water in your home takes its time moving down the drain or flushing down the toilet, you might think it’s because of a clog. That may be true if the issue is limited to a single fixture, but if you notice it throughout the home, it’s probable that your tank needs to be pumped.

3. Bright Grass

You should also check the drain field for signs of grass that appears too healthy, vibrant, and green. If it appears remarkably different from the rest of the lawn, that’s a strong indication that the wastewater is leaking into the field and fertilizing it.

4. Water Pools

The drain field may even feel wet or spongy to the touch. In more severe cases, you may notice that there are actual pools of water situated in and around that area of your property. This is a fairly significant sign that the septic system is overflowing into your outdoor space because the liquid is searching for somewhere to go.

Has it been at least three years since you last pumped the septic tank, or are you concerned about slow pipes or unusual smells? Get in touch with the team at Akins Plumbing & Septic in Hoschton, GA. Offering over 30 years of experience, the plumbers specialize in many services, including septic system pumping, drain cleaning, and broken pipe fixes. Visit them online for information or call them at (770) 339-8359 to schedule an appointment.