Top 5 Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Pumping

Septic systems are designed to work efficiently when they’re pumped regularly. Staying on top of your septic tank pumping schedule is important to avoid problems and expensive repairs. Watch out for these telltale signs that it’s time to get your septic tank pumped. Slow drains, foul odors, and pooling water are common symptoms of an overly full septic system.

Slow Drains

If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slower than usual, that’s a clear sign it’s time to pump the septic tank. It’s best to get this done before clogs cause further problems.

According to reputable septic services providers, foul odors, especially those reminiscent of sewage or rotten eggs, are another common sign that the septic tank is full. These odors are created when the microorganisms inside the tank have no more space to digest waste.

You may also hear a gurgling sound coming from your sinks or showers. This sound is caused by blockages that are near your septic system. It’s a good idea to call in a plumber right away if you hear this sound. This helps to prevent costly damages. The plumber can also inspect the septic system and determine if it’s just time to have the tank pumped.

Unhealthy Well Water

All that waste in your septic tank contains many bacteria and contaminants. Some contaminants can leak into your well water and make drinking unsafe. If your water smells like laundry detergent or has excessive chlorine (while a small amount of chlorination is good for drinking water, too much causes various health issues), it could be a sign that your septic tank needs to be pumped. Regular septic tank pumping is the best way to prevent the abovementioned symptoms. Adding this to your household maintenance routine is easy and will save you a lot of headaches, money, and sewage backups down the road. 

Foul Odors

The smell of sewage in your house can be unpleasant, but also a sign that your septic tank needs to be pumped. Foul odors can indicate that the septic tank is overflowing or that the microorganisms in the septic system aren’t digesting waste properly. If the odor is particularly bad, consider cleaning out your often-overlooked effluent filter and outlet baffle. If this doesn’t help, a clog may be the culprit. Another clear sign that your septic tank is overdue for pumping is sewage backup in your toilets. This can harm you and your family and cause extensive property damage. If you notice this issue, call a septic tank maintenance company and reduce your water usage until an expert can arrive.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backup is a major problem that can be very difficult. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also lead to other issues in your home and yard.

If you notice sewage backing up in your toilets, bathtubs, or showers, it is time to pump the septic tank. This is a clear sign that the septic tank is overflowing and is spilling sewage into your home. Another sign that your septic tank is full is if you notice gurgling in the drains of your home. This means the septic tank leaks raw sewage into your pipes, which can cause clogs and other problems. 

Pooling Water

If you notice water pooling around your septic tank, leach field, or drain pipes, it’s time to call in the professionals. This can be a sign of a leak in the tank itself or an oversaturated drain field. Seeing the grass around your septic system turn bright green or muddy is another sign that it’s time to pump a septic tank. This is because the septic tank’s bacteria aren’t breaking down the waste as efficiently, and it’s getting discharged into the ground instead.