A properly functioning septic system is essential for both residential and commercial properties that are not connected to city sewer lines. However, aging systems are susceptible to issues that can disrupt daily operations if not addressed promptly. Some common septic system problems handled by professional septic system repairs services include leaks, clogs, and overflows.
Leaking Septic Tanks
One of the most common repairs for older septic systems involves fixing leaks in the large, underground septic tank. Normally constructed of solid concrete or polyethylene, tanks develop cracks or faults over 15-20 years of saturation in the soil. Leak signs include wet, squishy ground over the tank or a high water table.
Plumbing services use specialized equipment to access sunken tanks for inspection and testing. They locate all leak points and determine the best repair approach. Small cracks may be sealed from the exterior using epoxy, while larger holes require the tank to be pumped empty first. Reinforced repair kits or complete tank replacement solves major structural issues.
Blocked Pipes and Drain Lines
Unfortunately, many problems originate from what homeowners flush: fats, oils, grease, and items like wet wipes or paper towels that don’t fully degrade. Over time, these accumulate in underground drain lines and the distribution boxes connecting them to the drain field.
Plumbing inspectors using cameras meticulously clean obstruction points. Traditional drain augers clear light clogs, while heavier blockages may require rodding machines or jetting equipment. Services will advise on preventative measures like the installation of internal septic tanks to filter solids before reaching the main lines.
Failing Drainfield Systems
The perforated pipes and gravel-filled drainfield trenches that follow the septic tank slowly saturate wastewater into surrounding soil over 15-30 years. However improperly sized, compacted, or overloaded drainfields eventually fail to absorb adequately.
When plumbing services detect surfacing sewage or lush, wet spots, a camera inspection identifies stressed or collapsed pipes for replacement. Advanced systems utilize new distribution boxes and rerouted laterals to optimize flow. In some cases, entire drainfields need excavating and reinstalling to larger specifications.
System Overflows
A combination of factors can cause septic systems to completely overflow during rainy seasons. Saturated drain fields accept less water, as do overloaded or underperforming tanks. Plumbing services pump retaining tanks to ease pressure while addressing underlying issues.
Strategically placed bleed lines or overflow drains divert excess wastewater away from buildings to a pop-up emitter or holding pond until the soil can accept it. Additional tanks, elevation modifications, or advanced treatment upgrades provide fail-safes against costly indoor spills.
Plumbing is also equipped to address various other septic woes. Cracked or collapsed lids require tank access ports to be reset securely. Corroded pumps and siphons may need replacement in older systems. Irrigation or pumping assistance redistributes wastewater on saturated soils during wet months.
Conclusion
Reliance on buried septic infrastructure means preparing for inevitable repairs down the road. But professional plumbing services stand ready to address all types of system troubles in a prompt, environmentally-conscious manner.
Overall, proactive maintenance and selecting an experienced plumbing service partner ensures septic systems will continue reliably processing household wastewater for decades to come without risky leaks, backups, or overflows. With diligent upkeep and quick response to signs of trouble, underground investments remain protected.