Septic System Back Ups

Having a septic system is not all that different than using the city sewer system until there is an issue with the septic tank or lines. Because when a problem arises with the septic system, it is your responsibility to find and correct it. However, the wise homeowner is well aware that septic system diagnostics and repair are better left to the professionals at Paul Bunyan Plumbing And Drains. So when you face a backup, placing a call to 612-340-1444 is the best choice to avoid a costly and messy backup of raw sewage in your home.

What Causes Septic System Back-Ups?

Many of the issues that cause a backup from a sewer line can also result in a backup in a home that uses a septic system. Some of the most common include:

• Tree roots that crack and invade the pipes carrying waste to a septic tank often block the line and result in sewage backing up in your home.
• Foreign objects that are not meant to be flushed can clog a line leading to a septic system or a sewer system. Things like a diaper, feminine hygiene products, and moist wipes are all known to create nasty clogs in septic and sewer lines.
• Homes on a septic system need to be very careful about their garbage disposal use. While a house on a city sewer system can handle more food waste without a negative impact, the same is not valid for a septic system. Food waste can easily clog the lines to the septic system. In addition, the food is very harmful to the health of the bacteria in the septic tank and can lead to issues and overflows as the bacteria cannot break down the food.
• Too much water flowing into a septic system at one time can cause an overflow. Each system is designed to handle a specific amount of water and waste per day. If that amount of waste and liquid is exceeded, the tank can overflow, causing the water and waste to backup into your home.

Warning Signs Of A Septic System Backup In The Making

The longer you live in a home with a septic system, the more familiar you will become with its function and warning signs of trouble. So homeowners need to understand the warning signs of trouble and take action to avoid a flood of raw sewage. The most common and easy to recognize indications of an impending sewage flood include:

• Clogged drains, especially more frequent clogs
• A foul odor in your yard, especially near the septic system
• Water frequently backing up in the tub, shower, or sink, and drains that are slower to clear than normal
• Standing water, especially dirty water, near the septic tank lid
• A patch of overly lush green grass is an indication of leaking water and waste from the septic system

When you notice any change in the way drains and toilets are functioning or other signs of issues with your septic system, call 612-340-1444 to schedule an appointment with the experts at Paul Bunyan Plumbing And Drains.