
As a suburban or rural homeowner, you may rely on a septic system to treat your wastewater. While septic systems are generally reliable, they can fail if not properly maintained. If you notice any of the following signs and symptoms, it is important to contact a qualified septic tank professional immediately.What are the signs of a failing suburban or rural septic system? All the septic tank nightmares!

Slow-Draining Drains and Toilets
- Slow-draining drains and toilets: This is one of the most common signs of a failing septic system. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including a full tank, clogged pipes, or a failing drain field.
- Sewage backups: If sewage is backing up into your home or business, it is a sign that your septic system is not working properly. This can be a serious health hazard, so it is important to have the problem fixed immediately.
- Unpleasant odors: Septic systems should not produce strong odors. If you notice a foul smell coming from your septic tank or drain field, it may be a sign of a problem.
- Pooling water: If you see water pooling around your septic tank or drain field, it may be a sign that the system is leaking or failing. Keep all your animals from bathing in it.
- Bright green grass: If the grass over your septic tank or drain field is much greener than the surrounding grass, it may be a sign that the system is leaking and contaminating the soil.
- Lush vegetation: Lush vegetation around your septic tank or drain field can also be a sign of a problem. Septic systems release nutrients into the soil, which can promote plant growth. However, too much vegetation can clog the drain field and lead to problems.Keep all your animals from eating the vegetation and off the area around it.Their hoofs may damage a pipe!
- Flies and other insects: Flies and other insects are attracted to sewage, so their presence around your septic tank or drain field may be a sign of a problem.
- Health problems: Exposure to sewage can cause a variety of health problems, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin infections. If you or your family members are experiencing any of these health problems, it is important to have your septic system inspected immediately.
Sewage backup,Unpleasant odors, Ponding or Pooling Wastewater:
If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it is important to contact a qualified septic tank professional immediately. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action. Also stop all water usage until the pooling of wastewater is gone.
In addition to the signs and symptoms listed above, there are a few other things that suburban and rural septic tank owners should keep in mind to help prevent septic system failure:
- Have your septic tank pumped out regularly. The frequency of pumping depends on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household, but it is generally recommended to have your tank pumped every 2-4 years.
- Avoid putting grease, oil, fat, and other harmful substances down the drain. These substances can clog your septic tank and drain field, leading to problems. Put them in the garbage!
- Only flush toilet paper down the toilet. Other items, such as diapers, wipes, and feminine hygiene products, can clog your septic system.
- Conserve water. The less water you use, the less wastewater your septic system will have to treat.
- Have your septic system inspected and serviced by a qualified professional on a regular basis. This will help to identify any potential problems early on and prevent them from becoming major issues.
- Use BioForce Bacterial Waste Liquefier. Using BioForce Bacterial Waste Liquefier once a month will help keep your septic system working.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your septic system functions properly for many years to come.
For more information please go to SepticTankBacteria.com
What are the signs of a failing suburban or rural septic system? SepticTankBacteria.com