Common Septic Tank Problems
At Willey & Co., septic system installation and repair is our bread and butter. We have extensive experience in the industry — so much so that we can diagnose just about any problem your system might have.
However, it’s not so easy for the average person to know what’s wrong with their system. In fact, people are often unaware of the problems that are happening with their septic tanks and related components. We love helping the people of Delaware with septic repair, but we can’t do it if people don’t know the problem exists!
If you’re unsure whether or not it’s necessary to call Willey & Co., keep your eyes out for the following symptoms of septic problems.
Signs of a Failing Septic System
Gurgling Noises: If your pipes or drains are making wholly unpleasant sounds when you use your plumbing system, it could be a sign that your septic system is in need of repair. Gurgling is usually an indication that your tank is backed up or that it needs some pumping. When your system is backed up, it can create blockages in your pipes — water and other material has to struggle to get through these clogs, creating the gurgling noise.
Slow or Backed-Up Drains: Have you recently seen a loss of efficiency in your drains? If your kitchen sink or bathtub usually drains your water with ease, only to suddenly start struggling, don’t just shrug it off — while it could be a problem with your pipes, it could just as well be a sign that sewage is backing up into your home. This is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately, especially if water isn’t even draining at all.
Unpleasant Smells: There are plenty of reasons why we don’t want sewage sticking around our home, and one of the most compelling ones is the nasty odor. Sewage doesn’t smell good, and one of the chief functions of septic systems is to ensure that your waste leaves your home. If you start noticing funky scents, it’s often a sign that sewage is escaping your septic system somehow. You know the scent of waste when you smell it, so take action if you do!
Abnormal Grass Growth: While we always yearn for greener grass, it’s not exactly ideal if only one spot of your yard is flourishing with growth. In fact, if you see spots on your yard that are growing greener for seemingly no reason, this could be something to worry about — it’s possible that your septic drain field is failing, allowing water to escape which in turn provides the grass above with more hydration. Weird grass growth can always be due to other problems such as sprinkler failure, but never rule out the possibility of septic failure, especially if this is happening in conjunction with other symptoms on this list.
Water Patches: Similar to the problem above, if your septic drain field is experiencing problems, it could reach the point where entire puddles of water are making their way into your lawn. If you’re experiencing seemingly random puddles in your yard that were never there before, consider the possibility that you might have a failing septic system.
Possible Causes of Septic System Problems
When the symptoms above begin to make themselves manifest, it could be due to any number of reasons. The bottom line is that every case is unique and it would be impossible to narrow down the specific problem that could be causing septic issues in your home without looking at your system specifically. But, speaking generally, your problems could be a result of any of these issues:
- Natural wear and tear from old age
- Tree root penetration
- Ground movement
- Collapsed baffle
- Heavy weight over drain field (such as a vehicle)
- Flushing non-biodegradable items
- Harsh chemicals in the system
- Sludge buildup from lack of cleaning
- And much more
Why You Need to Call Delaware Septic Professionals
The first step to repairing a failing septic system is knowing that something is wrong with it. Unfortunately, for the average homeowner, there’s little more that can be done on your own. Repairing a septic tank, sewer system, or drain field is usually a complicated process that requires professional tools, equipment, and experience.
Fortunately, we have you covered. We can diagnose the specific problem that’s plaguing your system, and we’ll have it fixed in no time. We have provided quality septic tank repair and installation services in Delaware for years, serving Kent County, Sussex County, and all the surrounding areas. Contact us today!
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