Septic tanks serve the important function of directing harmful waste away from your home, but they only work when they’re used properly. If you’re not diligent about septic maintenance, unwanted situations can arise, such as clogs within your system. Here are three common septic tank issues you may experience and how to address them.

Tips for Proper Septic Tank Care

1. Clogging

When a septic tank backs up, it often occurs after someone flushes congealing substances down their drains or toilet. Congealing substances include a variety of items, such as tampons, diapers, and grease.

When your septic system becomes clogged with these items and substances, your drain will either drain incredibly slowly or cease the draining process altogether. Fortunately, a professional septic service can snake the line to unclog it. As a preventative measure, you should have your septic system inspected annually and only flush septic-safe waste down the drains.

2. Foul Odors

If your septic tank has become clogged, you may notice an unpleasant odor inside your home. The reason for this is that a blockage will stifle the system’s ventilation, trapping foul-smelling gasses inside. If you notice a sewage-like stench within your home, it’s a clear sign that your tank is clogged.

3. Faulty Drain Field 

Typically, liquid wastewater will leave your septic tank and enter the drain field on your property. Unfortunately, if your drain field has become oversaturated with water, sewage may start to back up inside your home. If this is the case, it’s possible that your drain field can be dried out and returned to normal again. However, if the cause of the issue is an excess of solid material that’s accumulated over many years, the drain field may have reached the end of its life.

If you need professional septic service, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the experts at Hometown Sewer Service in Warrensburg, NY. Since 1949, this family-owned company has reliably serviced septic tanks for both residential and commercial customers. Fully insured and licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, you can rely on these professionals for everything from septic maintenance to tank inspections and grease trap cleaning. To schedule a free estimate, give them a call today at (518) 623-2453 or visit them online for more information.