Why Do Septic Systems Fail And How To Prevent It?

A failing septic system is no fun. From bringing your household routine to a halt to contaminating the environment and posing health risks, a malfunctioning septic system can be a nightmare for any homeowner. Below, we look at the reasons why septic systems fail and what you can do to prevent it.

Root Intrusion

All the components of a septic system are prime targets for tree roots in search of moisture and nutrients. If you have invasive trees in your yard, their roots are more likely to grow towards your septic tank and drain field. Tree roots can find their way into your septic tank through drainpipes or cracks on the tank itself. This can lead to blockages, leaks, and unpleasant sewage odors in your home.

The best way to keep roots away from your septic system is to plant trees far away from your septic tank, drainpipes, and the drain field. If you already have trees planted near your septic system, have them removed before the roots wreak havoc on your septic components. Alternatively, you can use root barriers to prevent roots from reaching septic equipment.

Chemical Exposure

The plumbing myth that liquid chemical cleaners are harmless to septic systems has left many homeowners with costly septic repairs and environmental damage. The reality is, the corrosive ingredients in these chemical cleaners can disrupt the natural balance in a septic tank. Frequent use of liquid drain cleaners can disrupt waste breakdown in a septic tank and lead to a situation where the tank fills up too quickly.

It’s advisable to avoid chemical drain cleaners altogether and opt for natural methods like plunging, snaking, and baking soda and vinegar. If you have a severe clog that just won’t budge, call a local drain cleaning company for professional assistance.

Neglecting Regular Septic Pumping

If you ask any septic technician, they will tell you that emptying your septic tank regularly plays a key role in keeping your septic system in great shape. The goal of septic pumping in Greenwood is to remove sludge and solid buildup from a septic tank. Failing to pump out a septic tank is a sure way to reduce its efficiency and lead to costly replacements in the long run. Some of the problems you may experience due to a lack of septic pumping include blockages, backups, smells, and drain field failure.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends pumping out your septic tank every 2-5 years. If you have a smaller septic tank, you’ll have to pump out your septic tank more frequently because it will fill up faster. It’s a good idea to have a professional septic company inspect your septic tank regularly and take preventative measures to prevent septic system failure. Here at Septic Connection, we take great pride in providing a comprehensive range of septic services at budget-friendly rates.

Call Septic Connection For Professional Septic Services

If your septic system is failing and you need professional septic repairs, get in touch with Septic Connection for help. Perhaps your septic tank is clogged and causing backups, or maybe your drain field won’t disperse waste correctly. Whatever the case, we are here to provide you with solutions. We take pride in offering reliable septic tank repair, septic pumping in Greenwood, drain field replacement, and more.

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