Your home needs a septic tank to effectively and safely deal with wastewater if it isn't connected to the public sewer treatment systems. With top-notch septic tanks, the entire waste elimination process happens underground, primarily relying on environmentally friendly natural soil filtration. However, although most of these tanks are durable and long-lasting, their effectiveness is often compromised by common problems that should be professionally repaired. The most common are listed below.
1. Roots and tree damage
Most septic systems suffer damage from trees and root infiltration. If you have a tree planted close to your septic system, its roots will likely grow in the tank's direction. Your sewer system contains extra nutrients and water that plants need to thrive. Tree roots will wreak havoc on your system's pipes and the septic tank itself by puncturing them and causing cracks and blockages. That is why professionals recommend using a tree's height to determine how far away it should be from your sewer tank. If you suspect root infiltration in your septic tank, call in a professional to isolate the problem's exact location, clear out the roots, and repair damaged components before it gets worse.
2. Clogging
Clogs and blockages are arguably the most common problems homeowners with septic tanks face. These problems have numerous causes, including leach fields with excess heavy items and plant populations, accumulation of garbage and other "septic unsafe" objects in the tank, and harsh chemicals that kill bacteria responsible for breaking down waste in your septic system. Common signs of a clogged septic tank include water and sewage backup, gurgling sounds emitted by the plumbing system, and foul odors coming from the tank's direction. If you notice any of these, find a septic tank repair expert with the skills and equipment required to unclog the system immediately.
3. Leaks
A septic tank ensures your home is a safe and convenient haven until it starts to leak. The leak can be into or out of the septic tank, but it doesn't matter; you don't want either. Leaks into your septic tank mainly occur when surface runoff finds a way in, which often causes flooding once the tank is full. On the other hand, wastewater can also leak out if your septic tank has a hole or crack. If the leak gets into your water system, it contaminates the water, making it unsafe for consumption. That is why you must keep an eye out for it and contact a plumber once you notice signs such as a soggy yard, an off-putting or rotten-eggs smell, or suspiciously lush patches of vegetation growing close to your septic sewer tank.
Contact a company like Stevee Excavation Inc. to learn more.