Signs of a Dangerous Septic System

Sep 12, 2023

Signs of a Dangerous Septic System

A failing septic system can make your home uninhabitable, not to mention the health hazards associated with septic issues such as overflowing septic tanks. It’s important to be aware of the signs of a dangerous septic system so that you can take the necessary measures to stay safe. At Septic Blue of Charlotte, we are familiar with the warning signs of a failing septic system. Let’s walk you through the signs of a dangerous septic system.

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  • Old Or Aging Septic System

A septic system's age matters, much like our own health. If your system has been faithfully serving your household for several decades, it may be on borrowed time. Aging systems are more prone to cracks, leaks, and overall inefficiency. The average lifespan of a septic system is 20 to 40 years. Regular inspections become crucial as systems age. If your septic system is approaching the end of its lifespan and breaking down often, it may be time to hire a professional septic company to install a new one.

  • Sewer Gas Around Your Home

One unmistakable warning sign of a failing septic system is the unpleasant odor of sewer gas lingering around your home. This indicates a problem with the septic system's ventilation, a malfunctioning septic tank, or a failing drainfield. Ignoring this smell can lead to more serious issues down the line. Reach out to experienced septic technicians to locate the source of the smell and fix the problem.

  • Saturated Drainfield

A saturated drainfield is an obvious sign of a failing septic system. When your drainfield gets waterlogged and squishy, it can't effectively treat and disperse wastewater. This may result in sewage backups, foul odors, and the potential contamination of nearby groundwater. Some of the common causes of a saturated drainfield include soil compaction, a high water table, excessive water usage, heavy rainfall, and more. If your drainfield is saturated, consult with a reputable septic company to assess the condition of the drainfield and provide you with a reliable solution.

  • Well Water Problems

If your household relies on well water, any issues with your septic system can impact water quality. Contaminated groundwater can pose health risks, including bacterial infections. If you find contaminants in the well water, it's advisable to investigate the septic system's condition. High levels of nitrates in well water means your septic system is contaminating nearby water sources. You need to schedule a comprehensive inspection and have the problem resolved because it can be a deal-breaker when the time comes to sell your home.

  • Overflowing Septic Tank

An overflowing septic tank is an emergency. It signifies that the tank's capacity has been exceeded, leading to untreated wastewater spilling into your yard. This not only poses health hazards but also indicates a possible failure within the system that needs attention. To prevent septic tank overflows, ensure you schedule regular septic tank pumping and reduce water usage in your home. It’s also advisable to ensure that rainwater from your roof or other sources does not flow into the septic tank. Excess water can flood the tank, leading to overflows. Divert downspouts away from the tank and drainage field.

  • Leaking Septic Tank

A septic tank should be watertight. If it's leaking, it's not only a problem for your yard but also for the environment. Septic tank leaks can contaminate soil and nearby water sources with untreated sewage, posing health risks and environmental harm. You’ll know your septic tank is leaking if you notice standing water near the tank, a low liquid level, and a foul sewer odor near the tank. You should schedule septic tank repair service when you notice signs of septic tank leaks.

  • Green, Spongy Grass Around Your Septic Tank

While a healthy lawn is a good thing, an excessively green, spongy area around your septic tank can be a sign of trouble. This suggests that wastewater may be escaping from the tank or distribution pipes, fertilizing your lawn but contaminating the surroundings.

If your septic system is not functioning properly, be sure to contact Septic Blue of Charlotte. We are a licensed and insured septic company specializing in septic tank installation, septic tank repair, septic tank pumping, and more.