In the United States, one in every four people relies on septic tank systems. They’re becoming more popular among homeowners, though, thanks to their economic benefits.
Experts also say that the proper design and use of septic solutions can be good for the environment. They can even help lower the risks of water-borne diseases.
However, all those benefits can go up in smoke when septic systems fail. For that reason, it’s vital you know when to get them inspected by a pro.
This guide lists the common indications you need a septic inspection, so be sure to read on.
1. A Year Has Gone by Since Your Last Septic Inspection
According to this septic inspection service guide, septic systems can last for 25 to 35 years. For them to last that long, though, they need to undergo annual maintenance. This yearly servicing includes examining and cleaning filters, alarms, pumps, and controls.
The inspection itself occurs as part of that once-a-year maintenance program.
Note that you don’t have to get your tank pumped once a year, as this is usually just necessary every three to five years. However, a yearly inspection can help reveal issues like overflows or tree encroachment. By discovering these problems early, you can then address them before they worsen.
2. Slow-Moving Drains and Toilets
A single slow-moving sink drain or toilet is usually a sign of a clog isolated to that fixture. In most cases, this means the blockage only affects the drain line connected to the sink or toilet. You may be able to dislodge that clog by using a sink or toilet plunger.
If the problem affects many drains and toilets, though, your septic system may already be to blame. It’s likely full to the brim that it can no longer accommodate additional waste.
The best thing to do is to get a licensed septic solutions provider to inspect your system ASAP. This way, the pro can confirm if you already need septic tank pumping services.
3. Foul Rotten Egg Smells
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an invisible, flammable, toxic gas that carries a rotten egg smell. That odor, in turn, comes from sulfur bacteria, which breaks down waste, such as sewage. However, plumbing and septic systems should route these stinky gases out of a home.
So, it’s never a good sign if you notice sewer-like smells in and out of the house. You may be smelling sewer gases escaping out of a loose clean-out access plug. You may also have a clogged plumbing vent, or the seal on your sump pump basket now leaks.
In some cases, the utility hole cover can get dislodged or develop cracks, too. This can happen if you drive vehicles or heavier mowers over the septic tank system. Either way, the fissures or gaps can allow sewer gases to leak out.
Please keep in mind that H2S can already irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, even at low doses. The risks are even higher in people with asthma or respiratory conditions.
For those reasons, get your septic tank inspected as soon as you notice sewer smells on your property.
Proper Septic Solutions Can Lengthen Your System’s Life
As you can see, an annual system inspection is one of the most important septic solutions you can invest in. In doing so, you can reduce the odds of your tank spewing stinky, hazardous gases. More than that, yearly inspections can help you uncover issues and fix them before they get worse.
All that can then help you maximize or even lengthen your system’s useful service life.
Interested in more guides on how to take better care of your home, health, or finances? Then please have a look at our other recent blog posts!
