Septic tanks are designed to hold and separate the wastewater that flows from your home. While they can hold a lot, eventually you will need to schedule septic tank cleaning services to prevent serious problems in your home and on the drain field. While the general rule of thumb is to pump it every three years, this can vary based on your family size, water consumption, and household habits. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call a professional.

When to Have the Septic Tank Cleaned

1. Poor Drainage

Usually, the first sign of a problem is a sluggish or clogged drain or, in more severe cases, standing water. You might notice this issue developing over time. Water in the tubs and sinks might gurgle slowly as it goes down, and toilets may take a little more time to flush than they normally do. These are generally indications that the tank is full.

2. Strong Odor

A harsh odor that emanates from the drains is difficult to ignore. That can happen when you neglect to schedule septic tank cleanings for years. Because it’s filled to capacity, the gases produced by the waste cause persistent odors to contaminate the pipes. You may notice the smell from sink drains, tub drains, toilets, and the drain field outside.

3. Healthy Drain Field

Don’t be fooled by the presence of lush, healthy-looking grass above the drain field. It’s an indication that excess waste has flooded the area because there was no room left in the tank. That liquid acts as a fertilizer and quickly transforms otherwise plain-looking grass into a brighter, greener color.

When you need septic tank cleaning services, contact American Rooter in Watertown, CT. Serving all of Connecticut and Rhode Island since 1980, they offer septic tank services to ensure that your home remains healthy and your system runs smoothly for years to come. They also conduct thorough pipe inspections to determine the source of a clogged drain. Visit them online to find out more about their drain services, or call (888) 863-4638 to speak to a team member.