If you’re one of the 25 percent of homeowners who rely on a septic system for their sewage needs, then you have a whole separate set of challenges to deal with. Septic systems can be a great option to take care of your home’s plumbing, but they can also be touchy if they’re not properly cared for. If problems are left to linger, you could be left with a septic emergency in Modesto, CA. It’s important to know the warning signs of impending septic problems and how to quickly deal with them to prevent disaster. Read on for some tips!
Drains empty more slowly than usual
If you notice your toilets, sinks and showers are slow to drain and the problem persists even after you’ve tried snaking them to remove any clogs, then there could be a bigger problem at play. If a septic tank is kept properly pumped, it should allow for all drains to quickly empty out into the waste tank. Drains that are emptying slower than usual could be a sign that your tank is overworked and is too full to properly allow for quick draining. Schedule septic pumping in Modesto, CA right away to ensure this problem doesn’t get even worse.
Pooling water in your yard
Most homeowners know roughly where their septic tank is located in their yard. If you start to notice pooling water on the surface in this general area, known as your drain field, it’s typically a sign that you have a septic emergency in Modesto, CA. Water coming up to the surface is a sure sign that your tank is full and overflowing. This can be the result of overuse (too much water and waste flowing into it), or it could be a sign of your drain field being clogged with waste. No matter the cause, you should immediately schedule tank pumping.
Black water backflow
One of the most unpleasant signs of a septic emergency in Modesto, CA is black liquid backflowing into your toilet, shower or sink. It’s usually accompanied by a foul odor, which means sewage is flowing from the tank back into your home. The cause of this problem can come from many places within your system—only a professional can tell whether it’s originating with the tank itself, its components or even your drain field. No matter the cause, this is not a problem that you can delay in addressing—call a septic professional immediately.
One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re seeing any of the warning signs above, you should immediately stop using any appliances that drain into the septic tank. You could be making a bad problem even worse, and it’s best to minimize any further strain on the system. Also, you can prevent septic emergencies by watching what you put down your drains—never put items like oil or grease down the drains, and avoid using the garbage disposal on large amounts of scraps.
Scheduling regular maintenance with a trusted septic service provider like Alvarado Pumping Septic Service is the smartest approach for keeping your system running reliably and safely. Call us today for an appointment!