Many families rely on a septic tank to treat their water waste. Using a septic tank is a safe waste disposal mechanism, making them quite popular in areas that have poor drainage systems or areas that cannot connect to the main sewage network.
If you have an issue with your septic tank, you want to address the problem immediately. Ignoring the problem could result in contaminating your everyday water. Odors from the sewage can seep into your home, making those who live there susceptible to illnesses and disease, not to mention the discomfort of living with that smell. Even the smallest clog can cause serious problems for a household.
Many issues with septic tanks are not even noticeable, making it hard to diagnose the issue. That is why routine maintenance and having someone from Plumbers Cape Town come inspect your septic tank is essential. Some of the more common septic tank issues include:
- Clogs
- Tree root damage
- Ground shifting
- Vehicle damage
- Damaged pipes
- Aging or a rundown tank (lack of maintenance)
- Incorrect installation
Table of Contents
What Are Ways to Fix Septic Tank Problems?
1. Check for and Remove Clogs
The best way to check for any clogs in the septic tank is to use a plumber’s snake. That way, you can feed the snake through the pipes to get a good visual of what is going on. Once you get to the clog, you should be able to apply pressure to dislodge it.
You’ll have to look between your house and septic tank. The snake should go through every pipe to ensure there are no clogs. It’s best that you get a professional to help you with checking pipes so that nothing is missed.
2. Inspect for Tree Roots
Unlike the roots of plants and weeds that you can easily pull from the ground, tree roots are incredibly strong. As the roots grow, instead of moving around an object, like the pipe of a septic tank, the roots will actually grow through the pipes and even the walls of the septic tank.
If tree roots damage the septic tank, you have two issues to worry about. The first is that the groundwater could seep into the tank. However, the other issue is that what’s in the septic tank could leak into the ground, creating a huge mess.
3. Pump Your Septic Tank
If you cannot dislodge a clog, notice that your septic tank is getting full, or it’s time for your regular yearly maintenance, you’ll want to fully pump your septic tank. This is something that a professional should do. If it is not done properly or routinely, you run the risk of sewage backing up into toilets and drains in the house.
How often should you clean your septic tank will depend on the size of the tank and how often it’s used. Typically, though, a thorough pump and clean should happen every three to five years.
4. Scan Your Lawn for Puddles or Oddly Bright Grass
Taking a look at your lawn is a great way to get an idea of any septic tank issues. If you notice that your lawn is incredibly green and healthy, more than it typically is and quite bright compared to everything else, it could be a sign that you have a leak in the pipes. It could also mean that there is too much wastewater flowing through the lines, which will back into the lawn.
It’s extremely important to ensure that if you notice a change in your grass color, or if there are puddles on your lawn, that you get your septic tank checked and repaired. The waste that is likely in the water is hazardous to people and the environment.
5. Call Professionals
When in doubt, call a professional to come and inspect your septic tanks. They have the knowledge and experience to notice issues with pipes and tanks that other people may miss. Not only that, but the professionals will have the proper tools to get the job done.
Give Us a Call
Although some issues are an easy fix, it is best to contact us to help you with any septic tank issues. If problems are missed, not addressed right away, or are not properly fixed, it could lead to more issues down the road.
Plumbers Cape Town will ensure that your septic tank is working as it should be. Don’t go through the hassle of having to buy a whole new septic tank system when proper maintenance can increase your current tanks lifespan.
