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How to Tell When Your Septic Tank Needs Emptying

If you are a homeowner, chances are your septic tank is one of the most important parts of your home. It is also something that you don’t want to think about too often.

But even if it is not on your mind, there are certain warning signs that may indicate a problem with your septic tank and if it needs emptying sooner than later.

If you are not sure how to tell when your septic tank needs emptying, don’t worry! There are a few common signs that you can identify easily from your home. You just need to know what to look for.

What are the Sgns that your Septic Tank is Full?

Your septic tank is a vital component of your home, and it needs to be checked regularly for any signs that it may need emptying.

If you notice these tell-tale signs, then chances are good that your septic system is in need of attention. It is not always as obvious as an overflowing septic tank! Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

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Your Drains Are Taking Forever

When you flush the toilet, is it taking longer than usual for your drains to move (slow drains)? Or do you have difficulty flushing? If this is consistent with all of your toilets and sinks in your house, not just one toilet, then it is likely more than just a clog.

Sluggish drains are one of the earlier indicators of a septic issue. Try using a septic-friendly drain cleaner. If that does not change anything and you notice everything is still draining slowly, chances are your septic tank is full. Give us a call.

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Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank

Is there water pooled up over your septic tank? Pooling water is a telltale sign that your septic tank needs to be pumped. The excess water has nowhere else to go, so it pools in your yard.

A similar problem to look out for is the health of your lawn. If water is pooling out of your septic tank, you might notice the grass over your septic tank looks especially healthy. Perhaps you’ve noticed excess weeds or flowers growing out from the area. This is because of the extra water and nutrients feeding your lawn in this spot. This can happen prior to the water pooling.

Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard

Have you noticed any foul odors lately? Check if they are coming from your yard, specifically your drain field. You may be smelling sewage water! If you do get a whiff of sewage smell, give us a call for a septic tank inspection. Such a smell usually occurs when your septic tank is full.

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You Hear Gurgling Water

Gurgling water can be a warning sign of a backup waiting to happen. If you hear gurgling water sounds coming from your pipes, it could be a sign that your tank is getting backed up and needs to be emptied.

You Have A Sewage Backup

Sewage backing up can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. If you have a sewage backup, then it is because your tank has not been emptied.

This happens when your waste water is struggling to drain away from home. If the wastewater makes its way to your home, it can come up through toilets, sinks, or even your shower.

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Sewage backups are caused by blockages. Septic tanks can get blocked with too much food waste. Cooking grease, meat fats, oils, or other foods can accumulate at the bottom of the tank and cause blockages. Flushing the wrong items down your toilet, like feminine hygiene products or cat litter, can also result in a septic blockage.