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Your septic tank usually tells you when it needs attention
Most homeowners don't think about the septic tank until something goes wrong. The good news is that a full or struggling system usually gives warning signs first. Catching them early can mean a routine pumping instead of a sewage backup in the basement. The EPA puts it simply: one call to a septic professional could save you thousands of dollars. (source)
Warning signs to watch for
The US EPA lists these common signs of a septic system that is not working properly: (source)
- Slow drains. Bathtubs, showers and sinks drain very slowly.
- Gurgling. You hear gurgling sounds in the plumbing.
- Backups. Water or sewage backs up from toilets, drains or sinks into the house.
- Odors. You smell sewage around the septic tank or drainfield.
- Wet spots. There is standing water, damp spots, or soft, spongy soil near or over the tank or drainfield, even without much rain.
- Bright green grass. The grass over the tank or drainfield is greener and lusher than the rest of the yard, even in dry weather.
If you see one or more of these, call a septic professional. A slow drain in one sink may just be a clog, but several signs together, or any sewage backup, should not wait.
Not every smell means the tank is full
The EPA notes that an odor can come from a roof vent or other vent pipe, which is a normal part of the system. Vents can also get clogged with leaves or freeze during long cold spells. Because the cause of an odor can't be diagnosed remotely, the EPA recommends contacting a local septic service provider or plumber. (source)
Why a full tank causes problems
Solids settle in the tank as sludge, and grease floats to the top as scum. When the tank hasn't been pumped in years, those layers build up, and solids can be pushed out toward the drainfield. Washington State's health department explains that a clogged outlet can back sewage up into the home or bring it to the surface near the tank, and that a drainfield overloaded with solids can fail early. (source)
PA DEP's general guidance is to have a tank pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on tank and household size. (source) The EPA gives the same 3 to 5 year range and recommends an inspection every 1 to 3 years. (source) Some townships set their own pumping schedule, so check your township notice; see our township guides.
What to do right now
- Cut back on water. Spread out laundry and avoid long showers until the tank is checked. The EPA recommends avoiding excess water use. (source)
- Stay away from sewage. If sewage backs up into your home, avoid contact with it, since it may carry harmful germs. (source)
- Don't flush anything extra. Flush only human waste and toilet paper. (source)
- Call for pumping. A septic company can pump the tank, check sludge and scum levels, and look for leaks or a blocked outlet. (source)
Get a local septic company out
Fieldstone Septic connects homeowners in the Hanover, York, Gettysburg and Westminster areas with a local septic company. Fieldstone doesn't pump tanks itself. Request a free quote or call (717) 316-0315, and a local septic company can reach out with a price and a date. Wondering about price? See septic pumping cost in York and Adams County.