Septic systems are an essential but often overlooked component of many homes and properties. While they efficiently treat and dispose of wastewater, their impact on the surrounding environment and water quality can be significant, especially if the septic system malfunctions. How do faulty septic systems affect your water, and how can you avoid adverse effects? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Septic Water, and What Are the Symptoms?
Septic water refers to contaminated water resulting from a malfunctioning septic system. The symptoms associated with exposure to septic water can vary depending on the contaminants present. Here are some common symptoms that may arise from contact or ingestion of septic water.
One of the most common symptoms is gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms may occur due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites in the septic water. On top of that, exposure to septic water can lead to skin irritation, rashes, or infections. Bacteria, such as E. coli, and other pathogens found in sewage can cause skin problems upon contact.
Respiratory problems can also arise from contaminated septic water. Inhalation of contaminated water droplets or aerosols may result in respiratory symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms often occur if septic water becomes aerosolized through a malfunctioning septic system.
Does a Septic Tank Affect Water Pressure?
In a nutshell, a properly functioning septic tank does not directly affect water pressure in your plumbing system. The primary function of a septic tank is to collect, treat, and separate solid waste from wastewater before it distributes to a drainfield or leach field for further treatment and absorption into the soil.
That said, it is worth noting that issues with your septic system, such as a clogged or backed-up drainfield, can indirectly impact water pressure. A faulty septic system can cause water to back up in your plumbing pipes, leading to slow drains, gurgling noises, and reduced water flow. These issues may create the perception of lower water pressure.
How Do Septic Tanks Contaminate Groundwater?
Septic tanks can contaminate groundwater if they are not correctly installed or maintained or suffer from malfunctions. Over time, septic tanks can deteriorate or develop cracks, allowing untreated wastewater to leak out. When this happens, the untreated sewage can seep into the surrounding soil and eventually reach the groundwater, contaminating it with bacteria, viruses, nutrients, and other harmful substances.
Regular maintenance, including periodic septic tank pumping, helps prevent solids from accumulating and clogging the system. Neglecting maintenance can overload the system, causing untreated wastewater to flow out of the tank and potentially contaminate groundwater.
What Are the Signs of Septic Tank Problems?
As stated repeatedly in this article, detecting potential problems with a septic tank early on is crucial to prevent water contamination. If you notice slow drainage or frequent backups in sinks, toilets, showers, or other plumbing fixtures, it could indicate a problem with your septic system. It may suggest that the tank is full, the drainfield is clogged, or there is a blockage in the pipes.
Unpleasant odors, such as sewage or rotten eggs, lingering around the drainfield, the tank, or inside the house can indicate septic system issues. Odors may occur due to leaking or overflowing tanks, a compromised drainfield, or broken pipes.
On top of that, excessive moisture or pooling water in the yard, particularly around the septic tank or drainfield area, can indicate a problem. It could mean the drainfield is not adequately absorbing the wastewater, leading to surface saturation. Furthermore, if you hear gurgling noises from drains or toilets, particularly when using water fixtures or flushing, it may indicate a blockage or backup in the septic system.
Who Should You Call for Septic Issues?
Norway Septic Inc. is a service company dedicated to providing septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. Don’t hesitate to call us if you need septic replacement parts or suspect problems with your septic system!
