Nampa, ID, is part of the Boise metropolitan area, and many homeowners have a septic system rather than a traditional wastewater and sewage system. Having a functional septic system is crucial if you want to enjoy clean, safe water in your home. The team at Express Septic and Drain Cleaning is here to help you recognize the key red flags that could mean you have septic system problems. We’ll also explain when you should seek our professional septic repair services and more.
Understanding Your Septic System: How It Works
A septic system is designed to separate solid waste from wastewater and dispose of sewage safely. However, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy septic system to ensure proper waste management, and environmental safety, and to protect the value of your home. Here are the crucial elements of a septic system and how they work.
- Tank: The tank collects wastewater from your house and holds solids, which settle to the bottom as sludge. Lighter materials like grease float to the top of the tank as “scum.” As everything sits inside the tank, it partially breaks down through a process called bacterial digestion. Then, the tank discharges the clarified liquid to the drain field.
- Drain field: Your drain field spreads the liquid evenly through several perforated pipes buried in the ground to trenches typically filled with gravel. It allows the soil to filter the wastewater using biological processes, then releases it back into the environment.
- Pipes: Septic pipes transport wastewater from your house to the septic tank, then carry clarified liquid from the tank to the drain field. Some pipes have perforated sections in the drain field that help distribute the liquid more evenly.
Red Flags That Your Septic System Needs Repair
There are several septic system red flags to be aware of that indicate your system needs professional repair. These warning signs include:
- Foul odors: Strong, foul odors near the septic tank, often similar to rotten eggs, could be an issue with your drain field or you may have a blockage or clog somewhere in the pipes or other system component.
- Slow drains/backups: Sluggish or slow drains and septic problems go hand in hand. If your sinks, tub, toilet, or shower seem to be draining more slowly than usual and it’s not improving after using a plunger, it may be due to a sewage backup or the drain field could be struggling to handle wastewater efficiently.
- Pooling water in the yard: If you notice wet spots or pooling water in the yard, it may be due to leaks or overflow that are creating these spots around your septic tank or drain field.
- Gurgling noises in pipes: Trapped air can cause gurgling noises, which is a sign that you have a potential blockage or other malfunction that may result in sewage backup in the house.
- Unusually green or patchy grass over the drain field: If the grass near your drain field looks unusually healthy, bright green, or patchy, there may be an underground leak that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
- High water bills or need to frequently pump the system: Water bills that are higher than usual typically indicate there’s a leak present. If your septic system needs to be pumped more often than usual, it could be due to too much solid waste building up inside your tank.
Common Causes of Septic System Problems
Septic system issues could be due to one or several causes, including:
- Age and wear: Septic systems can last between 15 to 40 years, depending on how they’re installed, where they are located, and overall maintenance. However, older systems are often much more prone to failure.
- Lack of maintenance: Your septic system should be inspected annually for leaks and other issues, and it should be pumped every two to three years. Failing to keep up with regular maintenance will eventually lead to problems.
- Clogs and blockages: Hair, grease, and the buildup of non-biodegradable materials can cause serious clogs and blockages that require the attention of a professional to locate and repair.
- Drain field failures: Issues with saturation or compaction can lead to drain field failure that affects its ability to absorb wastewater.
- Environmental factors: Flooding, heavy rainfall, and invasive tree roots may damage your septic system.
Why Septic Repairs Shouldn’t Wait
If you notice a problem with your septic system, it’s not safe to keep using it until the issues are addressed. Here’s why you should not wait to get your system repaired.
Risks of Delayed Repairs
- Delaying important repairs may lead to health hazards like exposure to raw sewage or contaminated water that could contain bacteria or parasites.
- If you ignore the issue, it may lead to expensive property damage from leaks or even structural collapse.
- Neglecting smaller repairs now may lead to higher repair costs later due to escalating problems.
Environmental Impact
- Ignoring septic system issues can have serious environmental impacts, like groundwater contamination. You may face potential fines for non-compliance with regulations.
What to Expect from Professional Septic Repair Services
Here’s what you can expect from the professional septic repair services provided by Express Septic and Drain Cleaning in Nampa, ID.
- Inspection and diagnosis: We use advanced tools like high-tech cameras and soil tests to inspect and pinpoint various issues to make an accurate diagnosis.
- Fixing common problems: Our team makes many repairs including fixing cracks, cleaning clogs, repairing drain fields, and replacing components as needed.
- Timeline for repairs: The typical duration for minor repairs takes just a few hours. Major repairs may take half a day or longer, depending on the severity of the issue.
It’s important to hire experts when it comes to septic system repair. Not only will this ensure that your system complies with local codes, but you’ll also avoid costly DIY mistakes that could make the problem worse.
Contact Express Septic Today
Since 2006, Express Septic and Drain Cleaning has offered excellent service to our customers throughout the Nampa area. We’re familiar with the local drain and sewer systems and the most common issues local homeowners face, and we have several financing options available. If you’ve noticed any of the red flags we mentioned or you believe your septic system needs repair, contact us today!
