Most septic systems do their work quietly, largely ignored by the homeowner. Other than periodic inspection and septic tank pumping, septic systems are designed to work without any intervention from the homeowner. A homeowner who has their septic tank pumped every few years and does not abuse the septic system by flushing large amounts of solid materials and chemicals down the drain or overloading the system with wastewater can expect the system to provide good service for many years.
It’s usually not until a problem arises with the septic system that most homeowners pay any attention to the septic system. When a problem arises, it is a serious matter and needs to be resolved quickly by a sewer-septic professional. Not only will a septic system problem cause sinks, showers, tubs, and toilets to back up inside the home, but it can result in contamination by untreated sewage.
Septic system wastewater contains viruses, harmful bacteria, and other microorganisms that are removed through the treatment process. When the treatment cycle is interrupted or incomplete, diseases can be spread by the contaminated wastewater.
Common reasons for septic system malfunctions include a blocked wastewater drain line, build-up of solid material in the tank, blocked septic tank outlet, clogged drain field lines, and damage to the drain field due to root infiltration or the soil becoming too clogged with solid material to allow the effluent to properly percolate into the soil.
Calling a sewer septic professional at the first sign of trouble can often stop a minor problem from becoming a serious problem and can prevent contamination by untreated sewage.
