If you own or rent a home with a septic system in Osage Beach Missouri it’s important to have your septic tank on a regular pumping schedule. Depending on the household size and your particular septic system, that schedule can vary anywhere from every 1 to 5 years. But what are the warning signs that your septic tank needs to be pumped before the next scheduled time? Keep reading to find out what to look for.
What’s that smell?
The waste that goes into your septic tank doesn’t smell great, why would it? Everything that’s flushed down your toilet, or poured down your drain flows through your home's pipes and ends up in the septic tank where it’s broken down naturally. While this is happening you won’t notice any unbearable smells - at least you shouldn’t. If you do smell a stench by your septic tank it’s a sign that your tank needs to be pumped immediately. What’s happening is the waste you put down your toilet and drains is beginning to reach the top of the tank, allowing gases to seep out. If you’re experiencing this it’s time to get your septic tank pumped before the problem gets any worse.
Your pipes are talking to you
Household waste uses gravity to travel from your pipes to your septic tank, which means it needs to have a clear airflow to work properly. If you begin to hear strange sounds and gurgling coming from your septic tank it’s a sign that there is blockage happening somewhere within your septic system. This is often accompanied with a backed up toilet or sink drain. If you begin noticing this it’s time to get your septic tank pumped and inspected to avoid any other damage.
The flush won’t flush and the drain won’t drain
Every time you flush the toilet the water should go down at a consistent speed and smooth motion. The same goes with your sink, bathtub and shower drain. If you notice things going down more slowly, or even begin to make a strange noise there’s something wrong. It could be that your drain needs to be cleaned (but not with Drano!), or it could be a sign that your septic tank is too full. If you still experience this problem even after cleaning your drains, your septic tank is due for a pump.
Standing water around your tank
Soggy ground and puddles are normal with heavy rain, but that shouldn’t remain the case when there’s no moisture in the ground. If you notice standing water around your tank, even on the nicest day, it’s a sure sign that your septic tank has reached its max capacity. Not only will this water begin to smell, but it can also lead to bigger problems like pooling water. If you do notice water accumulation for a prolonged time, have your septic tank pumped.
The best way to avoid any issues with your septic tank is to have it pumped on a regular schedule. If you do notice any of these warning signs in the meantime give 1st Choice Septic Pumping in Osage Beach Missouri a call at 573-280-5052 and we’ll get your septic system working properly again in no time.