What is the Most Common Cause of Septic System Failure?

Every day, household waste undergoes silent management through septic systems. An issue with a septic system can lead to troublesome results which pose costly issues and bring about dangerous effects. So what factors primarily lead to system failures?

How a Septic System Works

The internal operations of septic systems need clarification.

A basic understanding of septic system operation helps explain the potential causes of pipeline damage. A septic system consists of two distinctive elements, which include the tank and drainfield.

A storage tank located at your residence accepts wastewater from your household operations. The bottom of the wastewater tank develops sludge from solid matter that settles down. The scum layer at the top contains lighter particles, which rise to the surface. Effluent which flows from the tank passes through the drainfield until it completes its filtration process through the soil.

The #1 Cause: Lack of Maintenance

Septic system failure takes place mostly because owners fail to perform regular maintenance activities.

The tank develops sludge, and scum accumulates due to long-term usage. They overflow when unmaintained drains and cause the drainfield to clog. The system becomes unable to function properly because of this issue.

To avoid such an issue, it is crucial to get your tank inspected and pumped by a reputable Septic Service and Repair company every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and household size.

Why This Happens

Homeowners frequently overlook septic system maintenance or else leave it for later. Since septic systems operate underground, most homeowners dismiss them until problems appear. 

If sludge enters the drainfield:

• The soil becomes clogged.

• Wastewater tends to reverse its flow into your residential property.

• The cost for repairs will be very expensive, and sometimes the system becomes unrecoverable.

Regular septic maintenance services stop these occurrences from causing damage to your system's operation.

Other Common Causes of Failure

Flushing the Wrong Things

The purpose of a septic tank is limited to certain fluid types. Putting wet wipes along with grease and feminine hygiene products and chemicals into the toilet will cause severe damage to your system. 

Excess Water Usage

Excessive water entering the system simultaneously makes it function beyond its limits. Thus, the tank does not receive sufficient time to normalize solid separation.

Examples of overuse include:

• Running several laundry cycles throughout one day

• Long showers back-to-back

• Leaky faucets or toilets

Water system overflows can be avoided by distributing water consumption while dealing with all leakage points.

Tree Root Invasion

Another problem is that tree roots can penetrate and damage the septic pipes, or even the actual tank. They lead to obstruction and physical injury. Trees and shrubs should also not be planted close to the system area. 

Driving or Building Over the Drainfield

In order for the drainfield to function efficiently, it must be allowed to “breathe.” Houses, driveways, or big trucks put pressure on the soil and compress it. This disrupts the flow of the treated water and leads to system failure.

Signs Your Septic System May Be Failing

You might notice issues like:

• Slow-draining sinks or toilets

• Bad smells in the yard or near drains

• Wet, soggy patches around the drainfield

• Gurgling sounds in plumbing

Don’t ignore these signs. If you are able to act quickly, most of the time, you do not have to replace the entire system.

Preventive Measures That Really Work

These are some tips on how to keep your septic system in top condition: 

• Pump the tank regularly; it is recommended to do it every 3-5 years.

• Never flush harmful items

• Use water evenly throughout the day

• There should not be any heavy equipment or trees planted close to the drainfield

• Fix leaks right away

Some of the best practices include also having records of inspections and of pump-outs. This is useful to know when the next service is next.

When to Call the Professionals

DIY tricks are not always the answer for all septic problems. Call a licensed septic technician like hsrooterplumbing.com if you suspect your system is having trouble.

They can inspect the tank, test the drainfield, and suggest the right solution. They can inspect the tank, and drainfield, and suggest how to fix it. Failure to seek professional help can result in system collapse and profound repair costs.

Not maintaining your system is the primary reason for septic systems to fail. By taking proper and timely care of your system and scheduling regular inspections, you can stay one step ahead. Even a small attention to septic issues now is enough to avert big problems later.