Common Causes of Septic System Failures

Causes of septic system failures

Hydraulic overload

Allowing excessive water into the system is one of the common reasons for septic system failure. While planning for your home remodeling or expansion, homeowners should endeavor to upgrade the capacity of their septic system.

Every septic system has a specific flow rate design, which will definitely be altered when you expand your home to accommodate more people and possibly add more washing machines, dishwashers, and other water-using devices.

Another cause of hydraulic overload in the system is running storm drains into the septic tank. This will cause excessive water in the septic tank and will disrupt the anaerobic processes that discompose the waste in the system.

Poor installation or construction of the septic tank

A septic system designed without considering space requirements, rate of sewage flow, and soil conditions can fail at any time. There should be a soil evaluation by experts to identify soil grades and poorly drained sites before the installation of the septic system.

Improper design and construction of septic tanks or the use of inferior materials decrease the lifespan of the system.

To ensure that your septic tank is properly designed and installed without issues in the foreseeable future, call expert plumbers at Septic Blue.

Driving, paving or building over the septic tank

Driving over the septic tank is detrimental to its’ functionally and longevity. The pipes and other components could be damaged when cars, heavy equipment, or trucks are allowed to be parked or drive over an absorption system. If not checked, the soil could be compacted by continues abuse and untreated sewage could be exposed.

Homeowners should also be discouraged from expanding structures over the septic because it stresses the system and prevents maintenance.

Inadequate maintenance and pumping

The septic system requires maintenance like other appliances or components in your property. It is expected that the septic system is pumped every 3 to 5 years (though this is dependent on usage). Also, you should allow professionals to inspect your septic system if you notice it’s not working as efficiently as it used to.

However, the solution to septic system failure isn’t quick fixes; you need an expert to determine what cause of the problem and offer efficient repairs. If you’re having issues with your septic tank of you, want an upgrade to your plumbing system, call experts at Septic Blue.