If your home has a septic system, you can rely on it for effective waste management as long as it remains in good condition. However, as a homeowner, it is very important to closely monitor your septic system, particularly the septic tank, closely so problems and issues can be discovered and repaired before you deal with a sewage backup or other unpleasant side effect. Luckily, septic tank problems are not super common in well-maintained units, especially newer septic tanks, but they can happen, so it is always good to pay attention and be able to recognize that something is wrong. Some of the most common problems with residential septic tanks include:

Over Capacity

One of the most frequent problems that homeowners face with a septic tank is the sewage level rising to a level that is above the capacity that they tank can hold. One way to prevent this from happening is through regular septic tank inspections and pumpings. In the event that your septic tank has reached capacity, you may notice foul smells in your home, slow drains and toilets, and it is possible for raw sewage to rise up through the pipes and drains in your home. If you suspect that your septic tank is beyond full, immediately call a septic tank repair company for emergency pumping services before you end up with an overflow of sewage in your home and yard.

Cracks or Fractures in the Tank

Septic tanks are buried underground and are designed of durable material that is made to last. However, things like ground shifting or invasive tree roots can cause cracks or fractures in the walls of the septic tank. When this happens, the septic tank will become less effective, especially when it comes to separating liquid waste from solid waste. Some signs that your septic tank may be cracked or fractured include needing pumping more frequently and the presence of solid waste in the drainfield that is designed to dispose liquid waste.

Pressure From Groundwater

When there is a lot of pressure from groundwater in the water table, it is referred to as hydrostatic pressure. If you have a septic tank on your property, it is very important to have the hydrostatic pressure on and surrounding your property checked on a regular basis. If the hydrostatic pressure is too high, it can displace your septic tank by several inches and disconnect the pipe that connects your home's plumbing to the septic tank. If this happens and it is not repaired immediately, you will likely suffer a sewage backup in your home.