If your septic system and drain field are working the way they should, you may not even know they are there. There are no foul odors, standing water or sewer backups, just a well-performing system. Unfortunately, when something does go wrong, your drain field will be one of the first places you will begin noticing a problem. If not fixed quickly, you could have an expensive septic failure on your hands.
Causes of Drain Field Problems
You will know there is problem with your drain field if there is standing water, a bad smell or the grass is much too green in that portion of the yard. A backed up sewer line can also be a sign of drain field issues. Unfortunately, it is not as easy to find the cause of the problem and get it fixed as it is to notice that one exists. Some of the common causes include:
- Poor soil absorption. If the soil has been compromised and is no longer absorbing quickly, your drain field may need repair or replacement. This can be caused by the use of some chemicals that bond with the clay in the soil and limit absorption.
- Clogged drain field pipes. The pipes that release waste water from the distribution box into the drain field are perforated with small holes. These can get clogged by various items that don’t dissolve, including certain tablets or pills.
- Thick biomat. A biomat that has become too thick can actually create a barrier that prevents absorption into the soil of your drain field.
Drain field problems can be complicated and should be addressed by a septic professional. As soon as you notice a problem, call in a professional to inspect your drain field and septic system before a small issue ends in a large and expensive repair.
Posted on behalf of:
Hunter’s Septic Service
Nesbit, MS
(662) 429-1686
