inspecting a septic tank system

Common Septic Tank Problems: A Comprehensive Guide

Septic tank problems can be a homeowner's nightmare, especially in areas where septic systems are commonly used.

These issues can disrupt daily life, result in costly repairs, and even pose health risks. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the most common septic tank problems that homeowners may encounter, their causes, and potential solutions. For most of these, you'll need an experienced Atlanta septic tank plumber to service your home's septic system.

1. Septic System Backup

Septic tank problems often rear their unpleasant heads with a backed-up system.

Picture this: you flush your toilet or run the sink, and suddenly, you hear a gurgling sound, or worse, wastewater starts to back up into your home. This alarming situation is usually the result of a clogged or overflowing septic tank.

Causes: A buildup of solid waste and debris over time can overwhelm your septic system, leading to a backup. Neglecting regular pumping and maintenance is a common cause.

Solution: Contact a professional septic service provider to assess the situation and pump your tank if necessary. Regular maintenance can prevent this issue in the future.

2. Slow Drains

Slow drains are another telltale sign of septic tank problems. You may notice that your sinks, showers, or tubs take longer to drain than usual. This issue is often a precursor to a more severe backup.

Causes: Accumulated sludge and waste in the septic tank can restrict the flow of water through your plumbing system, causing sluggish drains.

Solution: Consider scheduling a septic tank inspection to evaluate the condition of your system. Professional cleaners can remove accumulated sludge, restoring normal drainage.

3. Gurgling Sounds

Gurgling sounds coming from your drains are annoying and indicative of potential septic problems. If you hear unusual noises when using your plumbing fixtures, it's time to investigate.

Causes: Gurgling sounds usually result from air bubbles trapped in your plumbing due to septic system issues.

Solution: Contact a septic professional to inspect your system and address any issues causing these sounds. Ignoring them can lead to more severe problems.

4. Pool of Water or Dampness Near Drainfield

A pool of water or dampness near the drainfield can be a clear sign of trouble with your septic system.

The drainfield is a crucial part of the septic system where treated wastewater is released into the ground. If it becomes saturated, problems can arise.

Causes: Overloading your septic system with excessive water use, leaks, or a malfunctioning drainfield can lead to pooling or dampness.

Solution: Seek professional assistance to inspect and potentially repair your drainfield. Managing water use can also help prevent future issues.

5. Nasty Odors

Unpleasant odors around your home or yard can strongly indicate septic tank problems. If you catch whiffs of sewage or foul smells, it's time to take action.

Causes: Odors usually result from septic tank leaks or a full tank that needs pumping.

Solution: Contact a septic professional to inspect and address the source of the odor. Regular pumping and maintenance can prevent this issue.

6. Unusual, Bright Green Grass Above Drainfield

If you notice an unusually lush, bright green patch of grass above your drainfield, it might seem like a good sign, but it's often a red flag. This phenomenon is known as the "leach field effect."

Causes: When the drainfield becomes oversaturated with effluent, it can fertilize the grass above it, resulting in this unusual green spot.

Solution: Contact a septic expert to assess your system's health and make any necessary adjustments to prevent further issues.

7. Blooms of Algae in Nearby Water

If you live near a body of water and notice sudden algae blooms, your septic system could be contributing to the problem. Excess nutrients from a malfunctioning system can harm the local environment.

Causes: Leaking septic systems can release excessive nutrients into the water, fueling algae growth.

Solution: Have your septic system inspected and repaired if necessary to prevent environmental damage.

8. High Levels of Coliform in Water Well

For homes with well water, high levels of coliform bacteria in your water supply can indicate septic system problems. Coliform bacteria are typically found in human and animal waste.

Causes: Leaks or contamination from a failing septic system can introduce coliform bacteria into your well.

Solution: Test your well water regularly and promptly address any septic system issues to ensure safe drinking water.

Ulysses was great from start to finish!!! He resolved my complicated plumbing issue and provided thoughtful communication throughout the entire process!

Crystal Hope

6/29/24

I would highly recommend this company for any plumbing issues, Technician Charles did an outstanding job repairing and preventing further issues with my leaking water heater. His attention to detail and system knowledge was very impressive; resulting with me being very satisfied with the end...

I would highly recommend this company for any plumbing issues, Technician Charles did an outstanding job repairing and preventing further issues with my leaking water heater. His attention to detail and system knowledge was very impressive; resulting with me being very satisfied with the end result. The professionalism and service provided, places this company at the forefront in the plumbing business in my book. I would also like to thank Johnny, upon answering my call for a repair...he immediately was concern with getting the repair done today. I appreciate RooterPlus entire team and the hard work you all contribute to a job well done!


Raymond Carnegie

6/30/24

Richard at Rooter Plus was amazing. We had to have our septic tank serviced. He explained everything in detail and was friendly and super fast. They finished in under 2 hours. Highly highly recommend him.

Arthur Kirkland

6/29/24

The technician was punctual, pleasant to talk to and polite.
He answered my questions professionally. This was my first time using Rooter Plus and i would use them again. Good job, RP!

Ross Coleman

6/29/24

Michelle at RooterPlus! is a joy to work with! She helped me with an association that had a plumbing issue that was preventing them from opening their pool on time. She sent technicians out right away and the pool opened as scheduled…and we had happy homeowners! Thank you Michelle!

Melissa

6/29/24

Paul was very professional and polite. He figured out what the problem was and he got it fixed up for me. Really appreciate him coming out on such short notice!

Kristen Nicole

6/28/24

Coleman came out quickly and found the water leak in my front yard. He was very knowledgeable & knew exactly where the water leak was coming from . I was so happy ! He worked extremely hard in this 100 degree weather ! He needs a raise today !! Good hard workers and experienced ones are hard...

Coleman came out quickly and found the water leak in my front yard. He was very knowledgeable & knew exactly where the water leak was coming from . I was so happy ! He worked extremely hard in this 100 degree weather ! He needs a raise today !! Good hard workers and experienced ones are hard to come by ! I highly recommend Coleman for your plumbing needs !!!!!!!! Thank you again Coleman !!!!!!! Your the BEST !!!!!!!!


Lisa Tippens

6/27/24

Amazing service. Straight forward and honest pricing. The technician was very knowledgeable and personable. Would definitely be using them again

Amalu Obinna

6/26/24

Technician Haley was on time, he explained what needed to be done and why, gave me an estimate on the work being done, and got to it. My hot water heater is now purring along and providing my wife and I with lovely non-rusty hot water. It is, in a word, transformative. This was a great...

Technician Haley was on time, he explained what needed to be done and why, gave me an estimate on the work being done, and got to it. My hot water heater is now purring along and providing my wife and I with lovely non-rusty hot water. It is, in a word, transformative. This was a great experience and I'll be telling all my family and friends about Technician Haley's awesomeness.


Bryan Wood

2/26/24

I just want to thank Johnny Jackson and Rooter Plus for working to accommodate a disables veteran in getting my Septic and drain fields repaired/replaced. The employees were very friendly and answered all my concerns. I would recommend you to anyone who needed Septic repair. Thank you so much.

I just want to thank Johnny Jackson and Rooter Plus for working to accommodate a disables veteran in getting my Septic and drain fields repaired/replaced. The employees were very friendly and answered all my concerns. I would recommend you to anyone who needed Septic repair. Thank you so much.


Hedda Sigler

6/25/24

My fiancé and I have never been so impressed w/ a company!! We had experienced a "customer leakage" on Thursday. Patrick and his team came to our rescue and worked diligently in over 100 degree weather and 10hr plus to get the job done! We are forever grateful for Patrick!! He is the best and...

My fiancé and I have never been so impressed w/ a company!! We had experienced a "customer leakage" on Thursday. Patrick and his team came to our rescue and worked diligently in over 100 degree weather and 10hr plus to get the job done! We are forever grateful for Patrick!! He is the best and so hardworking!! Thank you so much for your service!! 5 star ALL the way around


Kelly Dromgoole

6/24/24

Contact Us Today!

770-888-1931