By Lizzie Weakley
A septic tank is a self-contained sewage system, used in areas not connected to municipal water and sewer systems. Typically, a septic tank is installed underground and can stay out of sight and out of mind, until it needs to be repaired. So, how do you know if your septic tank needs professional repair? Read on for four signs to watch out for.
Slow Drains
If you notice that drains throughout your home are running at a much slower rate than normal, then this could be a sign that there's something wrong with your septic tank. This is usually due to blockages in the pipes that connect the house to the tank or within the actual tank itself. If you're experiencing slow drains, it's best to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible to assess the situation before it gets worse.
Bad Smells
Septic tanks should never emit any odors into your home or yard; however, if they become damaged or blocked, this can become an issue. If you notice bad smells around your property or inside your home, then this likely means that waste isn't draining correctly through the pipes and is instead backing up into the house. It's important to call a plumber right away if you experience any foul odors coming from your septic system. Septic pumping may be required if this issue is not resolved.
Water Pooling Around Your Property
If you see puddles of water appearing near where your septic tank is located in your yard, then this could mean that there's an issue with either drainage or saturation of the soil around it. This could also indicate that there’s a leak somewhere in the line connecting the house to the septic tank which will need repairing by a professional plumber straight away before any more damage can occur.
Unusual Noises Coming From Your Toilet/Drains
Have you noticed gurgling noises coming from either your toilet or drains? This could be due to air bubbles forming within either the pipes leading from your house or deep within your septic system itself. In this case, it’s best to call out a plumber who will be able to inspect both and make sure everything is functioning as it should be.
Regular maintenance of your septic tank is essential for its longevity and function but sometimes unforeseen issues can arise which require professional repair work from an experienced plumbing technician. By keeping an eye out for these 4 signs mentioned above (slow drains, bad smells, water pooling around property, and unusual noises) you'll have peace of mind knowing when it’s time for repairs so that no further damage occurs down the line!
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball. Looking to work with a brokerage in Michigan? Weakley recommends contacting The Stockton Team.