Septic problems stink, literally. If you have owned a septic system for a while, you know that a septic problem can bring your home to a screeching halt. If you have never experienced septic system issues, just know that any septic tank problem is considered a septic emergency.
If you think you might be experiencing a backed-up septic system, it is imperative that you act quickly. Contacting a septic system specialist as soon as possible will get your septic system flowing again. This quick guide will provide you with tips on what to do during a septic emergency.
Do I Have a Septic Emergency?
Here are a few telltale signs that you might have a septic emergency on your hands.
- Bad smells – This is one of your first indicators that the septic system is not working properly. You will notice bad smells emanating from toilets and drains. You might also notice a bad smell outside your home and around the area where the septic system is located.
- Slow Draining – Another good sign that you have a problem is when drains are draining slowly. This can include toilets that are slow to flush and drains that are slow to empty.
- Strange liquids – You might also notice strange-colored liquids accumulating in your drains or toilets.
- Wastewater puddles – This is a sign that is seen outside. You might notice smelly waste water puddling outside near the septic system.
What To Do in a Septic Emergency?
If you start to notice any of the above-mentioned signs of a septic system emergency, do not ignore them. Septic system problems do not improve with time; they only worsen. The longer you allow a septic system problem to go unresolved, the worse and more expensive it will be to fix.
You should contact a septic system specialist to deal with the problem as soon as possible. These professionals will be able to fix the issues quickly and efficiently.
How To Avoid Septic System Emergencies
There are steps you can take to cut down on septic system problems.
- Keep your system green – The septic system is a natural waste management system based on the naturally occurring bacteria that will break down waste. However, this bacteria can be disrupted when we put things down the drains that hurt the bacteria or kill it. Avoid using harsh cleaners in your home, and keep bleach use to a minimum.
- Careful what you flush – The system can handle human waste and a reasonable amount of toilet paper. Nothing else should ever go down the drains.
- No grease – You should also avoid putting any kinds of grease or fats down the drain as well. These substances will harden and slow the flow of the septic system over time.
- Use septic system helpers – There are products you can apply to your septic system regularly that will help the good bacteria stay alive and active.