The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends septic tank pumping every three to five years, depending on your family size, water usage habits, the condition of your tank, and whether you use a garbage disposal. This service keeps your tank clean and running smoothly to prevent plumbing problems and water contamination issues. Watch for these six signs that you need septic tank pumping so you know when to schedule an appointment.
Standing Water in the Drain Field
The drain field is where wastewater from the septic tank is dispersed and treated by the soil. If a septic tank overflows, water may back up into the drain field, causing pools in your yard. If you notice standing water in the drain field, have the tank cleaned before other septic problems develop.
Bright Green Grass
Overly lush grass, excessive weeds, or flowers blooming in the drain field can be a sign that your septic tank is leaking or needs to be pumped. Nutrients and water from a full septic tank release into the drain field, resulting in this bright, flourishing appearance. While it may seem like a good thing, fast-growing grass actually means the septic tank is not functioning properly and should be pumped soon to prevent damage to the drain field.
Foul Odors in the Drain Field
Unfortunately, a lush lawn isn’t the only symptom of sewage seeping up from your septic tank. If a foul smell permeates the yard, this is a sure sign that your septic tank is full and needs to be emptied.
Gurgling Drains
Don’t ignore strange noises coming from your drains. This septic tank warning sign could indicate obstructions in your plumbing system, causing gurgling sounds as water drains from sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. Have your septic tank inspected by a professional to determine if it needs to be cleaned.
Slow Drains
Slow sinks and sluggish toilets are telltale signs that your septic tank needs pumping. As the tank reaches capacity, it can cause blockages in the plumbing system, resulting in slow drains and backups. Try using a septic-safe drain cleaner, and if that produces no change, call a professional to pump the tank.
Sewage Backup
If you don’t heed your slow, gurgling drains, you could end up with a full-blown sewage backup. This occurs when the septic tank is so full that wastewater has nowhere else to go but back up the pipe and out the drain. You can prevent sewage backups by being careful about what goes down the drain and pumping your septic tank according to the recommended schedule.
If you notice any of these signs, turn to Trinity Liquid Waste for septic tank pumping in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our family-owned business has over 25 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers with high-quality septic system services. We’ll work with you to determine the best septic pumping schedule for your needs so you never have to worry about an emergency developing. For more information or to schedule septic services, please call us at 510-874-6489 or contact us online.