For many homeowners, septic system maintenance is only necessary annually or every three to five years. However, septic emergencies can arise at any moment. Problems like clogs, often caused by incorrect waste disposal, may result in issues that come with visible signs. To help you care for your equipment, here are a few of the red flags to look out for.

4 Warning Signs of a Septic System Emergency

1. Drain Field Floods

The drain field is where the wastewater from the septic tank is discharged. If you notice the area above these pipes has puddles without recent rainfall, your tank or drain field may have a clog. If the issue isn’t addressed quickly, raw sewage could contaminate the ground and create unpleasant odors. 

2. Toilet & Drain Backups

If your tank is full or your plumbing clogged, sewage and wastewater could back up through toilets and drains inside the home. When this happens, you will likely notice a foul, sulfurous odor around drains. Untreated waste poses health risks because it can spread harmful viruses and bacteria, so this is an emergency.

3. Slow Drains

Sink and shower drains don’t have to back up for you to know there’s a problem. Excessively slow drainage is another clue that your septic system needs service.

If you suspect your drainage issues are the result of a clog, call a professional for a safe drain cleaning method like line jetting. If this doesn’t work, your tank may be full and require pumping. 

4. Lush Grass Growth

Beautiful green grass is a welcome sight for any homeowner, but if the boosted lawn health is patchy or unexplained, you may have a faulty septic system. When untreated wastewater leaks into the soil, the microbes within it can act as fertilizers and improve plant health. If the green patch is around your drain field, this is even more likely.

If you think you’re experiencing a septic system emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Around The Clock Pumping in the Kenai Peninsula, Matu-Su borough, or Anchorage, AK. For more than 17 years, their experienced team has provided residents throughout the area with quality septic services, including line jetting, drain cleaning, and tank pumping. They’re available 24/7, so call (907) 345-9126 night or day for assistance. You can also visit them online to learn more about what they offer.