Your septic tank may be full of bacteria and enzymes that break down organic waste, but it still needs pumping every few years. Solid waste settles to the bottom of the tank, creating sludge, while oil, fat, and grease rise to the top as wastewater flows into the connecting drain field. Tanks require septic pumping every two to five years based on factors like the number of people in your home and how much water you use on a daily basis. This delicate system displays numerous warning signs when you go past your pumping expiration date.

5 Signs Signaling the Need to Schedule Septic Pumping

1. Foul Odors

Foul odors are one of the first signs of a septic problem. You may notice these odors emanating from the toilets and drains or outdoors around your tank and drain field. Unpleasant smells indicate a full tank emitting gas that makes your home and property odorous.

2. Overly-Lush Grass

If the grass over the drain field looks extra green and lush, schedule septic pumping. An overloaded tank gives the drain field extra “nutrients” or bacteria by sending solid waste particles as well as wastewater to the area. Without service, the drain field gets saturated and unable to filter wastewater, creating contamination issues.

3. Toilet Backups

When a septic tank becomes overwhelmed with solid waste, it can send that waste back into the home’s plumbing system. Sewage backups are serious health hazards that increase the risk of diseases like salmonella. Breathing sewage fumes is also a health issue that can result in headaches, lung infections, and allergic reactions.

4. Slow Drains

Full tanks often affect household water drainage. If the sinks and bathing spaces in your home take too long to drain, the problem is larger than an individual pipe clog. Standing water can also occur as tank waste increases, or it can pool around the tank itself. 

Keep your system in excellent condition by working with A1 Septic Cleaning Service in Kerrville, TX. Serving residential and commercial clients, this licensed, bonded, and insured company combines quality work with friendly service and affordable prices. Call (830) 257-PUMP (7867) today to request septic pumping or cleaning. Visit the company online for a complete service list, and get more home maintenance tips on Facebook.