Have you recently experienced any problems with your septic system? This may be the result of issues with your drain field because after reaching the tank, the water flows out through the outlet pipe into a drain field. This system is, therefore, no less important than the septic tank itself.
If the drain field begins to fail, sometimes a repair might be enough, but other times, the entire drain field will have to be replaced. Noticing the issues on time plays a key role here and makes the difference between a repair and a replacement.
Leaving the problems with a drain field unsolved for too long will eventually lead to substantial and costly issues and might even cause flooding. So, is there a way to prevent and predict this to an extent? There is! By recognizing the telltale signs of a failing drain field, you will be able to call your local expert on time and deal with the issues before they grow more serious.
So, read on and find out what those telltale signs are!
Slower Drainage
If the drain field is compromised, the household members will probably notice that drainage is slower than usual in all tubs, sinks, and toilets. Therefore, if the drainage is only slower, but not completely obstructed, it means the drain field is still working but that it also may be damaged.
Still, be aware that slower drainage can also occur due to the inlet or outlet pipe clogs and some other septic problems. If you are unsure what the root of the problem is, it is always best to ask an expert for help.
Odors
Apart from seeing the signs of drain field problems, they can also be smelled. Pay attention to any foul odors that are coming from the drains. If the septic odor is spreading around your backyard, toilet, or coming from your drains, it means that a drain field failure has most likely occurred. Odor is caused by the accumulation of the drain field’s liquid waste in the soil, and this requires immediate inspection by a specialist who will clean or repair the drain field pipes.
Rising Water
Water levels may rise in the septic tank due to a clogged drain field. The water will rise high and push the sewage into your home’s lowest drains. Such backup is one of the main signs of a drain field failure. If the specialist determines that the water level in the tank is too high, the drain field may need to be repaired instead of the usual pumping.
Noise
Gurgling noises coming from your drains are a very early sign of problems with the drain field. This means there has been some blockage in the drainage system, and now the drain isn’t venting properly. The strange sounds may be heard from any of the fixtures, kitchen or bathroom drains, or even the toilet.
Puddles & Plant Growth
Drainage pipes, instead of clogging, can also burst and then release too much water into the field area. You can then see puddles or mushy ground. If it wasn’t raining and you can see these puddles, your drain field has probably failed.
Another sign of poor function of the drain field is bigger and faster plant growth around it. This is because the drain field leaks faster, and excess water and decomposing waste will act as nutrients for the plants or the grass.
Call the Experts
If you have noticed any of the problems mentioned above, it’s high time to seek expert help. Our experienced team at Bynum & Sons Plumbing will investigate any drainage issues and provide a quality drain field repair or installation.
Once we recognize the nature of the problem, we’ll show you the appropriate options to fix it before your system stops processing any waste. Call us to find out more, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the drain field and septic system.