A failed septic system is not simply an annoying nuisance, it’s something which can pose significant health hazards, ultimately leading to full contamination of groundwater and surface water nearby. Through understanding the root causes of septic system failure, you can have a better understanding of ways to prevent the issues from arising in the first place and maintain the overall health and efficiency of your home’s wastewater treatment process. Below are some of the key factors which can lead to specific system failure and how you can best address them proactively.
One of the most common problems which cause a failed septic system is improper installation. An improper installation may include poor design, incorrect sizing for the household’s needs, or even inadequate construction practices. A septic system which is installed incorrectly will be unable to properly handle the amount of wastewater produced, leading to backup and system overloads; ultimately leading to failure.
Prevention Tip: It’s always recommended to hire a reputable and licensed septic system installer who adheres to your local codes and regulations. Additionally, the professional you hire should have a good understanding of the specific soil composition on your property, as well as the environmental conditions of your property.
Prevention Tip: Regularly check for and repair leaks, install water-efficient fixtures, and spread out water-intensive activities like laundry over several days. Be sure to regularly check for any leaks, and if there are leaks present, repair them as soon as possible. Installing water-efficient fixtures and spreading out water-intensive activities can help to prevent this issue from occurring in the first place.
Septic systems will require regular maintenance in the form of inspections and pumping. This helps to remove the buildup of sludge and scum which cannot be broken down naturally. Failure to maintain the septic system may lead to waste solids escaping into the drain field, clogging and preventing proper filtration.
Prevention Tip: You should have your septic system inspected by a trained professional at least every couple of years and pumped as recommended.
Flushing non-biodegradable materials such as chemicals, kitchen grease, paper towel, feminine hygiene products, etc… can alter the bacterial breakdown process, resulting in system failure.
Prevention Tip: Explain to all household members and guests what should and should not go down the drain. Explain how the toilet and kitchen sink should not be used as a trash can.
If your septic tank system is near tree roots, it can be affected by the expansion of said tree roots, causing blockages and leaks if not addressed promptly. Additionally, the tree roots themselves may be drawn to the septic area of your yard, as there’s water and nutrients being released from the septic tank itself.
Prevention Tip: Always plant large trees and large shrubs at least 30 feet away from your septic tank system. If you do plant anything near your septic tank system, you should choose grasses or smaller, shallow-rooted plants; as these will not have an effect on your septic tank system.
If you have larger vehicles or heavy machinery, driving over the septic tank field area will likely compact the soil and potentially crush parts of the system. This will not only affect the system’s ability to properly treat and disperse wastewater, but it will also cause immediate structural damage in some cases.
Prevention Tip: Always mark the areas where your septic system resides on your property and explain to any household members or visitors where the septic system is located. This will help prevent any form of physical, mechanical damage occurring.
If your region has recently experienced severe rainfall, this could cause a change in the environment of your soil, making it difficult for water to filter properly through the drain field. All of this could lead to system backups and surface water contamination.
Prevention Tip: Landscaping and site improvements could help to prevent this issue by diverting excess water away from the stock system area. By ensuring proper grading and drainage solutions are in place, you’ll likely be able to reduce the chances of this scenario from occurring. Installing additional risers on your tank lid's opening can provide protection from rainwater intrusion.
Now that you have a better understanding of what causes septic system failure, and what you can do to avoid septic system failure, you’re ready to begin tackling any issues you may have realized you have after reading this post. Regular maintenance, proper usage, and proactive protection-focused measures will help to prevent any of the above issues from developing. Through taking care of your septic system, you’re taking care of your home, your health, and the surrounding environment of your property. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions and shop now by clicking the button below. We look forward to working with you soon!
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