If you have a septic system, it's important to keep an eye out for signs that your system needs attention from professional septic services. Ignoring problems can lead to expensive repairs down the road. Read on for seven telltale indicators that it's time to call the septic professionals.

1. Odor Around the Tank

One of the most obvious clues your septic system needs help is a foul, sewage-like odor coming from the septic tank and drain field area. Healthy, functioning septic systems emit little to no smell. Noxious odors indicate gases are building up and not properly venting, often due to a clogged outlet, excess waste backup, or issues with the piping. Don't dismiss a lingering bad smell from your septic system. Have septic services inspect for the source of the odor right away.

2. Backed Up Drains

If your sinks, tubs, and toilets are draining slower than usual or not at all, your septic system could be backed up. Excess solid waste in the tank can clog pipes and prevent proper drainage. Tree roots infiltrating pipes, crushed piping, and tank baffles shifting out of place can also lead to clogged drains. Slow drainage on occasion may not be a big deal. But if all your drains are sluggish, contact septic services to diagnose the issue promptly.

3. Gurgling Sounds

Strange gurgling noises from your toilet or drain pipes after flushing or running water are never a good sign. The sounds indicate sewage and wastewater are having trouble traveling out of the home properly. This often means there's a partial blockage somewhere in your plumbing or septic system. Sewage gurgling back up the pipes needs the urgent attention of septic professionals to clear the clog and prevent backups into the home.

4. Wet Spots and Grass Over the Drain Field

Notice any consistently wet spots or especially green grass over your septic drain field? That's a sign too much liquid waste is saturating the soil and failing to properly filter. Excess water pooling indicates your drain field has become clogged and can no longer absorb liquid adequately. Letting this go can damage your field irreparably. Have septic services inspect and pump the tank before identifying any drain field repairs needed.

5. Slow Draining Rainwater

Does rainwater seem to pool around your septic tank and drain field area instead of draining away? This suggests your soil has become overly saturated with waste from a full, overloaded tank. Proper drainage is critical to keep your septic system working. Standing water can damage pipes and your field. Call septic services to pump the tank and address any other issues preventing proper rainwater runoff. According to the EPA, your tank should be pumped if the bottom of the scum layer is within six inches of the bottom of the outlet, if the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the outlet, or if more than 25% of the liquid depth is sludge and scum.

6. Septic Tank Issues

If you notice any apparent problems with your actual septic tank, that warrants immediate attention. For instance, cracks in the tank, loose lids, or exposed baffles mean it's time for repairs. Also, if you can't remember the last time your tank was pumped, you're due. In our experience, it is wise to pump your septic system every three to five years. Ignoring tank deficiencies jeopardizes your whole system. Take action at the first sign of any tank problems.

7. Sewage Backups

The most severe indicator that your septic system requires urgent maintenance is actual sewage backups in your home. Wastewater coming back up drains, toilets overflowing, or pooled sewage in your yard means your septic system has failed. You likely have a complete clog or collapsed piping. These serious situations threaten health and home damage. Call septic services immediately if you experience any sewage backups.

Don't ignore these warning signs your septic system needs professional help. Being proactive about maintenance and repairs can prevent catastrophic failures down the road. Contact reliable septic services at the first hint of trouble for prompt diagnosis and resolution. With proper care, your septic system can last for decades. When you're looking for a company you can trust and rely on to properly repair and maintain your septic system, reach out to ProSeptic. Call now to schedule an appointment.