Troubleshooting Septic Systems

The life of a conventional septic system, if used and maintained properly, can function up to 25 years or longer. However, without knowing how to properly use and maintain your system, your septic system might operate inefficiently or fail completely within half that time or even sooner. You may even find a new wetland on your property that the ducks don't particularly care for!

Instead of putting the matter off when you experience a struggling septic system, call Clayton for a site visit to identify the source of the problem.

Four Common Reasons for Premature Failure

1. Waste water flowing into the system exceeds what the system is designed for.
2. Materials that don't belong in a septic system are being put into the drain or flushed down the toilet.
3. The system is not on a regular maintenance schedule.
4. Design mistakes and improper installation.

Eight Signs of Septic System Failure

1. Toilets that are sluggish or don’t flush properly.
2. The need to pump septic tanks and pump tanks frequently.
3. Lush green grass or dead grass over the drain field or around the septic tank.
4. Soft or wet spots over the drain field or around the septic tank.
5. Odors.
6. Gurgling drains.
7. Freezing of sewer lines or other components of the septic system.
8. System struggles after heavy rain or fast snow melt off.

Four Options for Septic System Rejuvenation or Repair

1. Even water flow out during the day by installing timer dosing.
2. Eliminate infiltration or leaks of septic tanks or pump tanks.
3. Add more drain field area and possibly more septic/pump tank capacity.
4. Consider aerobic treatment.

Nine Steps You Can Take to Keep Your Septic System Working Properly

1. Maintain your system regularly, pumping generally every 2-3 years.
2. Spread out water usage during the day.
3. Install low-flow fixtures and repair all dripping or running fixtures.
4. Disconnect water softener, iron filter and high-efficiency furnace discharge from the septic system if possible (could be discharged in a separate drywell).
5. Be sure footing tile drainage pumps are not connected to the septic system.
6. Be sure that hot tubs are not drained into the septic system.
7. Eliminate the use of anti-bacterial products and caustic cleaners.
8. Educate yourself on what can and what cannot be flushed down the drains.
9. Reduce water usage by installing water-efficient appliances.

Contact Clayton for all your on-site sewage treatment needs.
Phone: 320-248-2262 * or email from the contact page