Causes of a Failed Septic System

Overloading the System

This is one of the common mistakes that homeowners make, either unknowingly or due to changing circumstances such as increased household occupancy. Septic systems are designed to handle a specific volume of wastewater. Exceeding this capacity can overwhelm the tank and drainfield, leading to backups and clogs.

Improper Installations

Mistakes made during septic system installation can lead to premature failure. That’s why septic tank installation should be left to a reputable septic service company. The common installation mistakes that can lead to septic system failure include:

• Incorrect tank size or type: A tank that's too small won't have enough capacity to handle the wastewater volume. The type of tank should also be suitable for the soil conditions on your property.
• Improper drainfield placement: The drainfield needs to be located in an area with suitable soil drainage and away from wells or other water sources.
• Insufficient depth or length of drainfield trenches: Not following recommended specifications for the drainfield can lead to clogging and failure.

Poor Maintenance or None at All

Regular maintenance, including septic tank cleaning is crucial for a healthy septic system. Neglecting maintenance can cause problems like solid waste buildup in the tank and clogged drainfield lines. Have a licensed septic company inspect your system annually. The experts can assess the condition of the tank, drain field, and components and recommend any necessary repairs or adjustments.

Flushing Inappropriate Items

Your septic system is not a trash can. It may seem convenient to flush all sorts of items down the toilet, but it actually causes a lot of harm. Flushing items like diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products, or even excessive amounts of coffee grounds can clog the pipes and disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in the tank.

Diminished Septic Tank Bacteria

Septic tanks rely on specific bacteria to break down organic waste. Factors like frequent use of antibacterial cleaners or antibiotics flushed down the drain can harm these bacteria and hinder the treatment process. It’s advisable to avoid using chemical drain cleaners and schedule regular septic tank pumping to maintain healthy levels of bacteria.

Physical Damage From Vehicles Or Heavy Machinery

Driving or parking vehicles and operating heavy machinery over the septic tank area or drainfield can cause septic system failure. Vehicles and heavy machinery can crush or collapse the septic tank and compact the soil in the drain field, thereby reducing its ability to absorb wastewater effectively. To avoid physical damage to your septic system, clearly mark the location of your septic tank and drain field to avoid accidental damage. If you notice cracks on your septic tank, call the pros at Rooter Man Plumbing for septic tank repair.

Signs of a Failing Septic System

• Frequent issues such as slow drains, sewage backups, and foul odors
• High nitrate levels in well water—this means untreated sewage is seeping into the groundwater
• Visible signs of damage, such as cracks on a septic tank

Get in touch with Rooter Man Plumbing if you notice any of these signs. Our septic experts will carry out an inspection and provide professional recommendations. If your septic system is over 20 years old, it may be a good idea to consider replacement and save money down the road. Here at Rooter Man Plumbing, we take pride in offering professional septic tank installation services. Whether you prefer a concrete septic tank that will last for decades or a fiberglass option that suits an area with a high water table, we’ll install a durable septic system that will serve you reliably for decades to come.