Welcome to our comprehensive guide on maintaining your septic system’s health throughout the year. A properly functioning septic system is vital for a clean and healthy environment, and understanding the signs of a clogged septic tank is crucial to prevent potential issues. In this article, we will review the signs your septic tank is clogged!
What happens when the septic tank is backed up?
Several symptoms can indicate a clogged septic tank. Here are the most common ones:
Slow Drains
One of the earliest signs of a clogged septic tank is slowly draining sinks, showers, and toilets. So, water that takes longer to drain may indicate that your septic tank is clogged.
Foul Odors
A clogged septic tank can produce unpleasant odors in and around your home. Therefore, if you smell sewage or a musty odor from your drains, it’s a sign that your septic tank is malfunctioning.
Gurgling Sounds
If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, it’s a sign that your septic tank needs attention. These sounds are caused by air trying to escape from the plumbing system when wastewater cannot pass through.
Sewage Backup
This is the most severe symptom of a clogged septic tank. If you notice sewage backup in your home or yard, your septic tank is overflowing and needs immediate attention.
How do you clear a clogged septic tank?
Before you call your septic company, there are some things you can try yourself that might unclog your drain.
Avoid cleaners with chemicals.
Chemical-laden cleaners often break down the enzymes in your septic system, which are in place to help break down waste. Instead, use a septic-safe drain cleaner that is free of harsh chemicals. Keeping such a cleaner in the house for emergencies is always wise.
Pour hot water down the drain.
Especially in kitchen sinks, the rush of hot water is often enough to loosen or dissolve any obstruction in the pipes. Before taking any professional action, see if boiling water helps.
A simple snake tool will do the trick if you catch a clog early. If you don’t have a snake and the clog is fairly close to the surface, you can use a long piece of curved metal, such as a stretched-out wire hanger.
Snaking Your Drain
To properly snake your drain, make sure you observe these tips.
- Guide the snake through the drain while slowly turning in a clockwise rotation.
- When you hit something solid, make sure it isn’t the pipe itself by applying some force if it gives at all, it’s the clog.
- Press and then pull upwards while turning the snake to dislodge food or hair.
- Slowly remove the hook from the pipes with the balanced drain substance.
- Dump the substance (food, hair, etc.) into a prepared bucket before entering the pipe again.
- Once you have removed most of the clog and the snake is no longer halted, pour boiling water directly down the drain.
How often should a septic tank be emptied?
Proper septic tank maintenance is crucial for a well-functioning system. Generally, septic tanks should be emptied every 3 to 5 years, but the frequency can vary based on household size, water usage, and tank size. Regular inspections and professional guidance can help determine the ideal emptying schedule for your specific situation.
Who should you call for septic issues?
Norway Septic Inc. is a service-oriented company that provides excellent septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. We take pride in doing the job that others leave behind. Call us if you suspect there are problems with your septic system or need septic replacement parts like septic filters. With over 40 years of experience, we know septic systems and can handle just about any septic emergency.
