Your septic system might be out of sight, but it plays a big role in keeping your home running smoothly. While it’s built to last, things can go wrong, especially if routine maintenance gets skipped. Catching common septic system issues early can help you avoid major repairs (and unpleasant surprises).
At Cardinal Plumbing, Electrical and Septic, we know what it takes to keep your system in top shape. In this post, we’ll walk through some of the most common septic system issues and share simple, effective ways to deal with them, so you can stay ahead of problems and protect your property.
1. Foul Odours Around Your Property
Notice a foul smell near your septic tank or drain field? That’s one of the common septic system issues homeowners run into. These odours usually indicate that your tank may be full, there’s a leak, or your drain field isn’t working properly. To fix it, start by scheduling a septic tank inspection and pumping if it hasn’t been done in a while.
- Check the Tank Level: If the tank is full, schedule a professional pump-out.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for signs of leaks or overflows and contact a professional for repairs.
- Maintain Proper Ventilation: Ensure that the system’s ventilation is functioning properly to prevent odour buildup.
2. Slow Drains and Backups
If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slower than usual, it could be more than just a clog; it might be one of the common septic system issues.
Slow drainage often means your septic tank is getting too full or there’s a blockage in the system. In some cases, it could signal trouble with your drain field.
- Clogs in the Pipes: Use a plunger or drain cleaner to address minor clogs. For persistent issues, consider hiring a professional drain cleaning service.
- A Full Septic Tank: Schedule regular septic tank pump-outs to prevent backups.
- Drain Field Problems: If the problem persists, your drain field may be saturated or malfunctioning. Contact a professional for an inspection and repair.
3. Pooling Water in Your Yard
If you notice standing water or unusually green, thick grass near your septic tank or drain field, it’s a sign that something’s off. This usually means the drain field isn’t working properly and wastewater is surfacing instead of absorbing into the ground.
To fix it, avoid using excess water in your home and schedule an inspection right away. A failing drain field needs prompt attention to prevent bigger issues.
- Inspect the Drain Field: Check for signs of saturation or blockage.
- Avoid Overloading: Reduce water usage to prevent overloading the system.
- Seek Professional Help: Have a septic professional assess and repair the drain field if needed.
4. Gurgling Noises in Plumbing
Hearing strange gurgling or bubbling sounds from your toilets, sinks, or drains? That’s often a red flag that something’s not right with your septic system.
These noises can occur when air becomes trapped in the pipes, typically due to a full septic tank, a blocked vent, or a backup forming in the system.
- A Blocked Vent Pipe: Ensure that the vent pipe is clear of obstructions.
- A Failing Septic System: If the noises persist, have a professional inspect your septic system for blockages or failures.
5. Unpleasant Smells Inside the Home
If your home suddenly smells like sewage, don’t ignore it—it’s a serious sign that something’s wrong.
These odours can mean your septic tank is too full, a vent pipe is blocked, or there’s a break or backup in the plumbing line. Any of these can push sewer gases back into your home, which isn’t just unpleasant—it can be unsafe.
- Septic System Venting: Check for issues with the venting system and ensure it is functioning correctly.
- Broken Sewer Lines: Inspect for leaks or damage in the sewer lines and arrange for repairs if necessary.
6. Grass Overgrowth or Dead Patches
Noticing strange patches of grass—some looking extra green and thick, others brown and dying? That uneven growth can be a sign that your septic system isn’t working the way it should.
Lush spots often mean excess wastewater is leaking into the soil, acting like fertilizer. Dead patches, on the other hand, could point to saturated soil or system failure.
To deal with it, avoid overusing water and have your septic system inspected.
- Monitor Grass Growth: Healthy grass over the drain field is normal, but unusual growth can indicate leaks or system issues.
- Inspect the System: Have a professional assess the septic system to determine if leaks or malfunctions are causing abnormal grass growth.
7. Frequent Toilet Backups
If your toilets keep backing up, especially without a clear reason, it could be more than a clog. Regular backups often point to a septic system that’s struggling.
This can happen if the tank is complete, the lines are blocked, or the drain field isn’t draining properly. Flushing the issue away won’t work—it needs a proper inspection.
- A Full Septic Tank: Schedule regular pump-outs to prevent overflows.
- Clogs or Blockages: Address clogs in the plumbing with a plunger or professional cleaning.
8. Sewage Backup in the Home
Sewage coming up through your drains or toilets is one of the most serious septic issues you can face—and it needs immediate attention.
This kind of backup can be caused by a full septic tank, a clogged line, or a failing drain field. It’s not just messy—it’s a health hazard and can lead to serious damage if not handled quickly.
- Overloaded or Failed Septic System: Contact a professional immediately for an inspection and repair.
- Clogged Pipes: Clear blockages in the plumbing to restore proper flow.
9. High Water Bills
If your water bill suddenly spikes and your usage hasn’t changed, your septic system could be part of the problem.
High water bills can happen when there’s a hidden leak, a running toilet, or a malfunction in the system that’s causing excess water flow. Sometimes, a failing septic component can lead to water being used inefficiently without you realizing it.
- Leaks in the System: Check for leaks or overuse of water in your home.
- Saturated Drain Field: Reduce water usage to prevent overloading the system and consult a professional for repairs.
10. Alarm Systems and Warning Lights
If your septic system has an alarm or warning light and it suddenly goes off, don’t ignore it—it’s trying to tell you something’s wrong.
These alerts can mean the tank is too full, the pump isn’t working, or there’s an electrical issue. Whatever the cause, it’s a sign that the system needs attention before a small issue turns into a major repair.
- Check the System: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for troubleshooting.
- Contact a Professional: If you cannot resolve the issue, contact a septic system expert for assistance.
Protect Your Home by Tackling Septic Problems Early
Taking care of common septic system issues early can save you a lot of time, money, and stress down the road. When you know what to watch for and act fast, you keep your system running smoothly and your home protected.
If you’re experiencing issues with your septic system or need professional repairs, contact Cardinal Plumbing, Electric and Septic today. Our experienced team is ready to help you keep your septic system in top condition.