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In places with frequent heavy rainfalls, flooding is always a possibility. If you rely on a septic system for waste disposal and treatment, rainy weather can be troublesome, especially if you’ve skipped on routine septic tank pumping. To see how it’ll impact your system in the long run, you must understand how yours works first.

What to Know About Septic Systems & Rain

How do heavy rains affect my septic system?

Heavy rain often causes over-saturation in the drain field’s soil, which restricts its ability to absorb the effluent. Instead, the excess water goes into the septic tank and fills it to capacity.

Flooding can also lead to groundwater contamination. When untreated water rises to the surface due to over-saturation in the soil, it runs off to nearby water supplies, like creeks and streams, and pollutes them.

How do I know if my tank if flooded?

septic tank pumpingA flooded tank is overflowing or nearly full, requiring septic tank pumping. Watch for warning signs after a storm or heavy rainfall, like sewage backups, foul odors, slow-moving drains, and standing water near the septic system.

How can I fix it?

If you suspect having a flooded tank, call a professional for assistance; they’ll know how to address the issue without causing further damage to the system. Reduce water usage to let the drain field dry naturally, so shut down water valves to restrict water flow. Avoid adding chemical treatments as a quick-fix—they harm the good bacteria in the tank.

Can I prevent future issues?

Perform routine upkeep on your system. At the very least, schedule regular septic tank pumping and inspection to detect problems early. Refrain from flushing non-biodegradable materials down the drains, as they’ll clog the system. If you’re expecting heavy rains, limit water usage until the weather clears.

 

If you want to care for your system before the rainy season starts, contact the team at Sewer Solutions in Hilo, HI. These professionals help Big Island residents maintain their systems by offering routine septic tank pumping and installation. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 430-2323 to request an estimate.

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