Environmental and Health Concerns of Septic Tanks

Feb 28, 2023

Environmental and Health Concerns of Septic Tanks

A septic tank provides a simple, eco-friendly, and effective waste management alternative, as long as it’s properly sited and maintained. Unlike some public sewage treatment plants that may use potentially hazardous chemicals to treat wastewater, septic tanks rely on a completely natural process. Septic tanks are configured to break down waste in a closed anaerobic system and then transfer the liquid waste to the drainfield, where it’s filtered and purified as it seeps down into the soil.

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Mitch Kranes

Tim Grant of Septic Blue performed our septic system service. He was fantastic. Tank had not been serviced in a…

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Bret Brooks arrived on time, was completely professional and courteous.  I needed my septic tank pumped and a riser installed.…

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We are renovating a home that has a septic tank. We contacted Septic Blue and scheduled an appointment. They came…

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However, an improperly maintained or failing septic tank can contaminate groundwater, pollute nearby water sources, and create serious environmental and health concerns. At Septic Blue of Charlotte, we are a trusted septic company that offers a wide range of septic services, including septic tank pumping, septic cleaning, septic tank maintenance, and more.

Let’s look at the environmental and health consequences of failing septic tanks:

Water Pollution

A damaged septic tank may release phosphorus, nitrogen, and other hazardous minerals into groundwater, resulting in contaminated drinking water. If a septic tank that is located near a stream, pond, or water well is not functioning properly, the liquid waste can find its way into these water sources. The hazardous compounds, bacteria, parasites, and viruses that may be present in the liquid waste can cause diseases such as typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, blue baby syndrome, gastrointestinal illnesses, and more. To avoid septic tank failure and water pollution, ensure your septic tank is properly installed and maintained. Also, watch out for signs of septic problems and call in a professional septic company as soon as you notice a problem.

Environmental Damage

A failing septic tank can result in nutrient pollution—a situation where there are too many nutrients in surface water. The nutrients will cause an overgrowth of algae and cyanobacteria, which can kill aquatic life and introduce toxins into the water. Algae blooms have been found to be toxic to humans and animals.

How to Prevent Septic Tank Pollution

  • Ensure your septic tank is properly installed
  • Have your septic tank pumped as needed
  • Keep your septic tank lids closed and secured
  • Inspect your septic tank for leaks
  • Conserve water in your home to avoid overwhelming your septic tank and drainfield with excess liquid waste
  • Redirect roof drains away from your drainfield
  • Do not drive or park vehicles and heavy machinery on your septic tank

Contact Septic Blue of Charlotte for All of Your Septic System Needs

Proper septic tank installation and maintenance are integral parts of keeping your septic system in good working condition. If your septic tank is exhibiting signs of disrepair or it’s time to install a new septic tank, it’s important to hire a reputable septic company with a proven track record of success. Here at Septic Blue of Charlotte, we offer high-quality and affordable septic services for both residential and commercial properties. Whether you’re in need of septic tank pumping, septic installations, or septic tank repair, you can rely on our team of septic technicians to provide you with fast and efficient services.