Causes of Septic Leaks

May 16, 2024

Causes of Septic Leaks

A leaking septic tank is not a good sight. Apart from causing environmental contamination, septic leaks emit foul odors that can permeate your home and surrounding property. But what are the common causes of septic leaks? In this article, Septic Blue outlines the common culprits behind septic leaks.

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  • Improper Septic Tank Installation

An improperly installed septic tank won’t just be inefficient when it comes to processing wastewater; it may also be susceptible to leaks. Perhaps the connections in the septic tank were not properly sealed during installation, or maybe the septic tank was not installed with the correct slope or alignment. In some cases, inadequate bedding or support can lead to settling, shifting, or even uneven weight distribution. Whatever the case, poor installation is one of the main culprits behind septic leaks. In order to avoid the problems associated with improper installations, septic tank installation is best left to qualified and experienced septic technicians. Septic experts have the skills and experience to get the job done right and ensure leak-free septic installations. When you’re in need of high-quality septic installations in your home or commercial property, look no further than Septic Blue of Charlotte.

  • Tree Root Intrusion

While septic tanks may seem impenetrable, they are susceptible to tree root intrusion, especially if there are cracks or gaps in the system. In fact, older tanks with weaker materials or failing seals are more prone to root infiltration. Tree roots are extremely hydrotropic, often burrowing in search of water, even if it means breaking into septic tanks and sewer lines. Septic tank damage from invading tree roots can cause sewage to seep out of the tank, causing environmental contamination. If you suspect tree roots have infiltrated your septic tank, get in touch with a professional septic company for septic tank repair.

Tips To Prevent Tree Roots from Growing Into Your Septic Tank

  • Avoid planting trees with aggressive root systems close to your septic tank.
  • Install physical barriers made of hard plastic underground around your septic tank.
  • Have your septic system inspected regularly by a professional septic company.

Septic Tank Failure

Septic tank failure is one of the major causes of septic leaks. There are several reasons why a septic tank may fail, including normal wear and tear, vehicle traffic, a lack of regular maintenance, and many more. A failing septic tank will likely leak sewage. Contact a trusted septic company for septic tank repair as soon as you notice signs of trouble.

Overloading the System

Overloading a septic tank occurs when the volume of wastewater entering the tank exceeds its capacity to adequately process and treat it. This can happen due to several reasons, such as a higher-than-normal volume of wastewater from household activities, flushing inappropriate items, or septic tank failure. When a septic tank becomes overloaded, it can lead to problems, including sewage backups, slow-draining fixtures, foul odors, and potential environmental contamination.

How to Avoid Overloading Your Septic Tank

  • Schedule septic tank pumping every 3-5 years, depending on usage and the size of the tank.
  • Have your septic system inspected regularly by a professional septic company to identify any potential problems early on.
  • Schedule septic tank cleaning as needed.
  • Spread out water usage to avoid overloading the system.
  • Only flush human waste and toilet paper—avoid flushing things like paper towels, baby diapers, wet wipes, and grease.

Call Septic Blue for Septic Tank Repair

Is your septic system leaking, and you need professional help from a reputable septic company? Septic Blue is a phone call away. We have built an outstanding reputation for offering top-notch septic services, including septic repairs, septic tank pumping, septic tank cleaning, and many more.