6 Signs You Need Septic Tank Emptying Services

Date Posted: July 7, 2022 1:14 am

Like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your septic tank until it’s time for service. And even then, you may only be vaguely aware of the necessary steps to emptying and cleaning your tank.

But did you know that neglecting this essential maintenance can lead to costly problems down the road?

Here are six signs that it’s time for professional septic tank emptying services.

1. Your drains are constantly backing up.

If your drains are constantly backing up, it’s a sign that your septic tank is full and needs to be emptied.

Your septic tank is responsible for breaking down solid waste in your home, and if it gets too full, the solid waste can start to back up into your drains. Septic tanks should be emptied every three to five years, depending on the tank size and the number of people in your household.

If you have a large family or produce a lot of solid waste, you may need to have your septic tank emptied more frequently. However, if you’re unsure how often your septic tank needs to be emptied, you can contact a professional septic company for guidance.

2. You notice water pooling around your septic tank.

One of the most obvious signs that your septic tank is full and needs to be emptied is when you see water starting to pool around the tank. If you notice this, you must call a professional septic company immediately.

If the tank isn’t emptied promptly, the wastewater can start to overflow and cause severe damage to your property. In addition, the overflow can create health hazards for you and your family.

So if you see water pooling around your septic tank, don’t hesitate to call a professional septic company to have it emptied. It could save you money and headaches in the long run.

3. The grass over your septic tank is unusually green or lush.

Most people take pride in having a green, lush lawn – a sign of a well-kept home. However, if you have a septic tank, there’s one instance where having too much green grass is terrible. So it’s a sign that your septic tank is full and needs to be emptied.

This happens because the septic tank releases wastewater into the ground, which the grassroots takes up.

While this may not seem like a big deal, it’s a sign that your septic tank is not functioning correctly and needs emptying.

4. There is a sewage odor coming from your drains or yard.

When you notice an unpleasant odor coming from your drains or yard, it’s a sign that the septic tank needs attention.

This can be caused by wastewater being released into the ground. When this level gets too high, some will eventually leak out onto the soil above, which causes terrible smells and potential health hazards for those living nearby.

Continuing to use the system without having it pumped can cause even more waste to leak, exacerbating the problem.

Over time the buildup of waste in the tank can lead to serious damage, requiring expensive repairs. So if you notice a sewage odor coming from your drains or yard, it’s important to call a professional septic company to have your tank emptied.

5. You see effluent (sewage) spilling onto the ground near your tank.

Effluent spilling onto the ground is not only an eyesore, but it’s also a health hazard.

When effluent spills out of the septic tank, it can contaminate groundwater and surface water with microbial contamination, making it unsafe to drink or swim in.

Also, effluent can damage your lawn or landscaping and attract pests such as mosquitoes. For example, if you see effluent spilling from your septic tank, contact a professional septic service provider to have the tank pumped and cleaned.

6. You have frequent plumbing problems.

Your septic tank is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system. It collects wastewater from your sinks, showers, and toilets and stores it in a tank underground.

When the septic tank is full, the wastewater has nowhere to go but back up through the pipes. This can cause clogs, backups, and overflows.

Having frequent plumbing problems, it’s a good idea to have your septic tank inspected to see if it needs to be emptied.

It’s also important to avoid using the plumbing fixtures in your home until the problem is resolved, as this can exacerbate the issue.

The Importance of Septic System Care and Maintenance

The importance of septic system care and maintenance cannot be overstated. Without proper treatment, your home could experience long-term problems with odor or backed-up waste that cost you time and money in repairs down the line!

Below are some simple septic system maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly:

• Pump your septic tank every 3 to 5 years or as needed. Depending on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household, you may need to have it pumped every one to three years.
• Have your septic tank inspected by a professional every 3 to 5 years.
• Water conservation is important for all homes, but it’s crucial for homes with septic systems. Limit your water usage to help reduce the amount of wastewater produced.
• Never flush non-biodegradable items like cleaning wipes, diapers, or sanitary napkins down the toilet. These items can clog septic systems and cause backups and overflows.
• Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage septic systems.
• Has your septic system checked if you notice any plumbing or drainage changes?

If you have a septic system, it’s important to be mindful of how you use it and to have it inspected and pumped regularly.

Final Thoughts

Septic tank emptying services may seem like an unnecessary expense, but if your septic tank is overflowing or you’re experiencing any of the other signs we’ve outlined, it’s worth considering.

Not only will proper septic tank care protect your property and the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.

Here at Lanik Septic Services, we offer comprehensive septic system maintenance, installation, and pumping services to keep your tank functioning properly for years to come.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a free consultation!