Buying a home with a septic tank is a welcome idea because it saves on sewerage bills. However, it is crucial to carry out regular septic tank inspections and maintenance to avoid any problems in the future. This article provides an overview of some visual inspections that can be done on a septic system. Experienced septic system inspectors can help you inspect and address the following areas.
1. Check for Leakage
Generally, you should check for any signs of leakage around the septic tank. This is important because any leaks can lead to sewage escape, which can cause environmental damage and pose a health risk to people and animals. If you notice any wet areas or puddles of water near the septic tank, it is vital to have this checked out as soon as possible. You cannot allow any leakage to continue unchecked.
2. Check the Drainfield Area
The drain field is the area where the septic tank effluent drains. It is essential to check this area for any signs of saturation or ponding. This can be a sign that the septic tank is not draining properly, which can lead to problems in the future. If you notice any ponding, it is important to have this checked out by a professional as soon as possible. You don’t want the drain field to become overloaded and cause sewage to back up into the home.
3. Check the Soil Around the Septic Tank
The soil around the septic tank can also give clues about the septic system’s condition. If the soil is very dry and crumbly, it could be a sign that the septic tank is not draining correctly. Alternatively, if the soil is very wet and mushy, it could be a sign of leakage. Either way, it is vital to have the soil around the septic tank checked out by a professional to ensure no problems.
4. Check for Any Odors
If you notice any strong odors coming from the septic tank or the drain field, it is crucial to have this checked out by a professional. These odors could indicate a problem with the septic system, such as leakage or an overloaded drain field. Always ensure that any odors are checked out as soon as possible to avoid health risks.
5. Check for Any Signs of Damage
It is also essential to check the septic tank and all associated equipment for any signs of damage. This could be anything from cracks in the septic tank to collapsed drain pipes. Any damage to the septic system should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage or problems. Remember, damages tend to get worse over time, so it is always best to deal with them as soon as they are discovered.
Conclusion
These are just some visual inspections you can do on a septic system. If you notice any problems, it is crucial to have them checked out by a professional as soon as possible. Regular septic system inspections and maintenance will help to keep your system in good working order and reduce the risk of any problems in the future. Contact Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services for more information about septic system inspections and maintenance.