Common Septic System Problems

The first thing most people will notice is that wastewater has backed up in a drain in the bathtub or shower. This can be a result of any of the following conditions:

• Blockage in the drain line between the house and holding tanks.

• Collapse of one of the tank lids.

• Collapse of the drain field.

• Blockage within the aerobic wastewater treatment system or distribution line.

• Aerobic system pump failure.

• Aerobic system has been overloaded by too much laundry effluent, leaking toilets, too many houseguests, tap left running, etc.

Remove one of the clean-out caps located between the home and the tanks (there should be at least two). If waste flows out, the problem is more serious. Contact a qualified septic maintenance and repair company for further analysis. A trained professional aerobic maintenance and repair company will need to determine and resolve the exact problem. 

If the drain line appears empty, or nearly so, there is most likely a blockage between the clean-out port and your home. Contact a plumber and have the drain line blockage removed

 Naturally a flashing alarm light and perhaps an audible alarm as well is cause for concern. It signifies that there is a problem with the operation of your system. The alarm will go off if any of the following conditions occur:

• Aerator is not running.

• Insufficient water in tank to create back pressure.

• Water in the blower.

• New air switch needed in control panel.

• Water in the alarm tubing.

• Pump failure

 If you notice that your aerator is not running, check the electrical circuit and circuit breaker to assure you have power to the system and that the circuit breaker is not tripped. Plug into an extension cord that is connected to an electrical circuit known to be working. If the alarm then goes off, your system will need professional analysis. 

 Offensive odors emanating from your system may be cause for concern. In a drain field system, if you find standing water in the drain field or above, or near the tanks that is causing the odor have a qualified professional wastewater system maintenance company determine the cause and make the necessary repairs.
Offensive odors near or around an aerobic system's control unit, risers, or spray-field indicate a problem with the system. Odors may occur when aerobic systems experience any of the following:

• Harmful chemicals may have entered the system.
• Aerator may not be operating properly.
• Aerator filter may be clogged.
• Air may be flowing between the pre-treatment tank and the digester tank..