Managing your leach field is an essential part of septic system maintenance. To disperse wastewater and remove harmful bacteria from the system, you’ll need to take care of the leach field. This component is a bed of unsaturated soil, and it can be easily disrupted. Here are a few factors that cause this field to malfunction.

3 Factors That Influence Your Leach Field

1. Excessive Rainfall

Constant rainfall will flood your leach field, over-saturating it and preventing the soil from absorbing more liquid. The leftover water will eventually back into the system, causing flooding and backed up drains. If the field is flooded, untreated sewage may rise above the ground, polluting nearby streams and groundwater systems.

2. Grease

Even though it may be convenient, don’t pour grease down the drains—all of them lead to the septic system. This water-soluble liquid will easily separate from the water and escape the septic tank. Once it cools and solidifies, it’ll cause grease capping, which will inhibit oxygen and water from flowing into the system. Unable to properly treat wastewater, your leach field will flood and fail.

3. Parked Vehicles

Parking or storing cars on your leach field inhibits proper septic system maintenance. While light vehicles, like mopeds and ATVs, shouldn’t cause harm, heavier automobiles will lead to crushed piping or a completely collapsed leach field. If you aren’t sure where your leach field is, call a professional to locate it.

If you want help with your septic system maintenance, contact the team at ABC Cesspool & Septic Pumping in Kamuela, HI. These professionals have helped Big Island residents and businesses unload wastewater for over 12 years. They’re available for a variety of services, including septic inspections and tank cleaning, as well as leach field restoration. Learn more about the septic system online, or call (808) 887-0766 to schedule an appointment.