5 Signs Your Septic Drain Field Has Stopped Working

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5 Signs Your Septic Drain Field Has Stopped Working There is more to a residential septic system than merely a subterranean tank for holding waste and water. The water finally drains from the tank through an outlet pipe and into a network of lengthy perforated pipes known as the leech or drain field after entering the tank. In some cases, the drain field is even more crucial than the septic tank. A prompt response can mean the difference between relatively minor repairs and a full drain field replacement when this component of the system starts to malfunction. Watch out for these five indicators that your drain field is no longer draining properly.

Slowing Drainage When a drain field is compromised, homeowners first notice slower-than-normal drainage from all of the sinks, tubs, and toilets in the house. The drains in your home will keep working slowly as long as the field's pipes are still able to receive some water. Drainage won't stop at all until the drain field has fully failed and the tank has had a chance to fill up too high. However, obstructions in the inlet or outlet pipe and numerous other septic issues that are less difficult to resolve than a drain field can contribute to sluggish drainage. Before having a professional evaluate your septic system, avoid making snap judgments about what might be wrong.

Rising Water Drain field pipes that break and crack open instead of clogging up release an excessive amount of water into the field area. You might see standing water or soft, squishy ground there. While Septic cleaning, water levels might also increase due to a blocked or damaged drain field. A backup occurs when the water ultimately rises high enough to force sewage up the inlet line and into your home's lowest drains. During a tank inspection, if a professional notes high water levels, you might require drain field repairs rather than just routine pumping.


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