Co-Owner · August 12, 2020
You probably don't think about your septic system much, but you use it every day. Laundry, dishes, showers, it's all going through the septic.
A big part of your septic system is the drain field. It takes the water from the septic tank and lets it soak into the soil around it. If you overload your system, or it isn't working right, the drain field can take a hit.
As a homeowner, it's important to know the signs of drain field problems and fix the issue.
Don't ignore drain field red flags
- Sewage odors. Inside or outside, a sewage smell is a big, smelly red flag.
- Standing water or wet spots. Keep an eye out for anything slimy, standing water, or wet spots that keep coming back in your yard.
- Slow-flushing toilets. Annoying and a problem. A toilet that flushes slow is a sign something isn't working right.
- Slow drains in sinks or tubs. This is another sign something in the septic system isn't working right. It could be the drain field, or it could be a clogged pipe.
Common causes and culprits
The most common cause of drain field trouble is skipping maintenance. Other culprits are soil packed down by parked cars, tree roots getting into the field, and too much grease going down the drain.
So, what's the big deal?
Leave drain field problems too long and you can end up with water damage inside and out. If any of that sewage gets into your house, you're also dealing with health hazards, mold, and mildew.
Get ahead of drain field problems
Keep your septic system maintained and you can rest easy.