1. Slow Draining

When it's time to empty your sink basin, how long does it take to completely drain? If you find yourself waiting for a long time, it may be a sign of an issue with your septic system. If this is only a problem in one part of your home, it may just be a clogged pipe, but widespread slow draining is a sign of septic system issues. Unlike a clogged pipe, slow draining caused by your septic system can't be fixed by any plumber or handyman. This should be handled by a septic specialist. When your septic tank is full, the water has nowhere to go, so it takes a long time to drain. To address this issue, schedule a septic pumping appointment with a professional.

2. Unpleasant Odors

A well-maintained septic system shouldn't have any kind of noticeable smell. When functioning properly, the bacteria in the septic tank will break down waste well before any smells can form. However, if the tank is full, it's possible for waste to sit for a while without breaking down, and this is when you can expect to smell something unpleasant such as sewage or raw eggs. You may have heard of a product you pour down the drain to fix this, but this is only a temporary solution. To truly eliminate these smells, you need to have your septic tank pumped. Once this is done, there will be enough room to break down waste properly and efficiently.

3. Unusually Green Grass

Have you noticed an unusually green, lush patch of grass in your yard? The area may even be wet on the driest of days. While it may look vibrant and healthy, it's probably a sign of a full septic tank. When the tank is full, the waste inside still needs to go somewhere, and it might seep into your lawn and fertilize it. Free fertilizer? It sounds nice, but there are a lot of things in your septic tank that shouldn't be introduced to your lawn that could negatively affect local plant life, and the lush grass won't help to empty your septic tank. If you notice something like this on your lawn, it's time to call a septic pumping service. Keep children and pets away from the area until it returns to normal.

4. Algae Blooms

Your lawn isn't the only thing that might be affected by a full septic tank. Do you have any ponds or streams on your property? If so, septic leakage can contaminate the water and cause algae blooms. Excess algae in one area is toxic to animals and humans, so it's important to prevent algae blooms. The best thing to do is to schedule regular inspections with a septic tank company. They can check for issues and let you know when it's time to pump your septic tank.

5. Water Contamination

Many homes with septic tanks also use well water. Unfortunately, a full septic tank can lead to leaks that contaminate your drinking water. It's important to test your well water regularly, as you may not notice that it's contaminated by taste alone. If you find increased levels of nitrates or E. Coli bacteria, it's time to talk to a septic professional.

6. Sewage Backup

If nothing else in this article convinces you that septic tank pumping is important, this will. The absolute last thing you want is to have sewage in your home. It's dirty, smelly, and possibly toxic. To prevent sewage backup and the cleaning costs associated with it, have your septic tank checked regularly. It's the easiest way to know when you need to schedule septic pumping services.

According to the EPA, more than 60 million people in the U.S. utilize septic systems. With the help of a reliable septic pumping company, you can prevent issues and know that everything is working as it should. Do you have more questions about septic systems? Call ProSeptic today for more information. We offer free estimates and senior discounts!