Septic tank systems are essential to wastewater management for many properties, especially those not connected to a municipal sewer system. This underground tank is where all the wastewater from your home collects. The tank is designed to break down the waste so it can be safely absorbed into the ground. By treating wastewater on site, septic tanks help protect surface water bodies from pollution. Septic tanks are environmentally friendly for wastewater treatment because they use little energy, require no chemicals, and generate no pollutants. In addition, septic tanks can provide significant economic benefits by reducing the need for costly sewers and treatment plants. However, septic tanks can become clogged over time, leading to several serious problems. Here are some typical causes for septic tanks becoming clogged.
1. Fats, Oils, and Grease
Fats, oils, and grease poured down your drain can cause serious problems for your septic tank. As these materials cool, they solidify and cling to the sides of the tank and to the pipes leading to and from it. Over time, this buildup can restrict the flow through the system, eventually leading to a clog. When this happens, sewage can go back into your home or yard, posing a severe health hazard. Fats, oils, and grease can also increase the risk of sewage overflows during heavy rains.
2. Non-Degradable Materials
One of the biggest problems affecting a septic tank is the buildup of non-degradable materials. Non-degradable materials include plastic wrappers, cigarette butts, and paper towels. When these items are disposed of in a septic tank, they will not break down and will eventually block the pipes leading from the tank. As a result, the septic tank will not function correctly and will require expensive repairs. Avoid disposing of non-degradable materials in your septic system, and have your tank professionally cleaned regularly.
3. Excess Water
Homeowners with septic tanks on their property know that it is essential to monitor the amount of water going into the system. If too much water gets into the tank, it can overwhelm the system and cause solids to start flowing out of the tank and into your home. This can be a significant problem, leading to clogged drains and a foul odor in your home. Contact Express Septic & Drain Cleaning, Nampa, ID, immediately if you suspect your septic tank is overflowing. We will be able to pump out the excess water and make sure that your septic system is working correctly.
4. Tree Roots
Tree roots can be a cause of septic tank blockages. As trees grow, their roots can extend far into the ground in search of water and nutrients. If these roots come into contact with a septic tank, they can grow through the tank walls and cause blockages. In some cases, tree roots can even completely collapse a septic tank. This problem can be significant, leading to sewage leaks and expensive repairs. It’s essential to have your septic tank inspected regularly. This will allow any possible problems to be caught early on before they have a chance to cause severe damage. Additionally, keeping an eye on the trees growing near your septic tank is essential. If you see any roots starting to encroach on the tank, they can usually be cut away before they cause any damage.
5. Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals have become standard fixtures in modern kitchens, but they can cause severe problems for septic tanks. When the disposal grinds up solid waste, that waste can eventually block the pipes leading to the tank. This can cause sewage to back into the home and create a health hazard. Additionally, the extra waste can overload the septic system, causing it to fail. If you have a garbage disposal, it’s essential to be mindful of what you’re putting down the drain. Avoid grinding up stringy vegetables or hard bones, and make sure to run plenty of water while the disposal is running. It is essential to contact a professional before installing a garbage disposal in a home with a septic tank.
6. Improper Maintenance
Improper maintenance is the leading cause of septic tank clogs. When a septic tank is not properly maintained, the solid waste that accumulates in it can harden and form a clog. This clog can prevent the septic tank from draining properly, causing sewage to back into the home. In addition, the clog can also cause the leach field to become saturated, leading to an increased risk of groundwater contamination. Having your septic tank pumped regularly is essential and ensuring that all household ingredients that could harden or solidify are flushed only in small amounts.
7. Leach Field Problems
A leach field is an essential part of a septic system, and problems with the leach field can cause the septic tank to clog. The leach field is a series of trenches filled with gravel or other material. Wastewater from the septic tank is slowly released into the leach field, where bacteria treat it. If the leach field becomes clogged, it can cause the septic tank to back up, leading to sewage flooding your home or business. Leach field problems can be caused by various factors, including tree roots, overuse of the system, and poor maintenance. If you notice you might have a problem with your leach field, it’s essential to contact an experienced septic professional as soon as possible.
8. Flooding
Heavy rains can cause severe problems for septic tanks. When the ground is already saturated with water, rainwater has nowhere to go but up, which can mean that it ends up in your septic tank. If the water level in the tank gets too high, it can start to force solids from the tank and into your leach field. This can clog up your leach field and cause sewage back into your home. In addition, floodwaters can carry all sorts of contaminants into your septic tank, including chemicals and sewage. These contaminants can damage the beneficial bacteria that help to break down waste in the tank. As a result, it’s essential to be aware of the risks that heavy rains can pose to septic tanks and to take steps to protect your system.
9. Harsh Cleaning Chemicals
Cleaning your home is essential for maintaining a healthy and pleasant living environment. However, using harsh cleaning chemicals can cause septic tank blockages. These chemicals can kill the bacteria that help to break down waste in the tank, leading to a buildup of solid material. In addition, they can also corrode the septic tank itself, causing structural damage that can lead to blockages. As a result, it is essential to use gentle cleaning products that will not harm your septic system.
10. Insufficient Water Entering the Tank
The anaerobic digestion process requires a certain amount of water to function correctly. If insufficient water enters the tank, the organic matter in the sewage will not be adequately broken down. This can lead to a clog in the tank and odors and backups in the home. If you note that your septic tank is clogged, it is essential to contact a professional for help. Septic tanks are delicate systems, and attempting to unclog them yourself can cause further damage.
Contact the Experts for Your Septic Tank Services
If you’re looking for septic tank services, look no further than Express Septic & Drain Cleaning. We offer various septic tank services, from cleaning and maintenance to repair and replacement. We’re committed to offering our clients the best possible service, and we’ll work hard to ensure that your septic tank operates appropriately. We also offer drain field installation and hydro jetting. We’re also proud to provide our customers with competitive rates so you can be sure that you’ll have the best possible value for your money. By entrusting your septic system to us, you can rest assured that it will function properly for years to come. Contact Express Septic & Drain Cleaning today to know more about our septic tank services or to schedule a consultation.
