8 Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Attention: What to Look For

Spotting the subtle signs of a failing septic system as early as possible can help you avoid expensive repairs and unwanted sewage backups in your house or business premises. At Bolton Septic, we know that routine cleaning and maintenance are the best ways to keep your septic system working properly. But before that, we want you to understand the warning signs of a over full septic tank — so you'll know when to call in the experts.

Here's what to look out for:

1. Slow Drains Across the House

Your tank may be nearly or completely full if your sinks, showers or toilets take longer to empty. When sludge fills the holding area, wastewater is forced to move more slowly, sometimes causing sewage to back up in your house. That’s when it’s time to schedule a professional pump-out. 

2. Lingering Foul Odors

If you smell something like rotten eggs in your yard near the septic tank, or notice a strong, sewer-like odor coming from your drains, it could be a sign of septic tank problems. These smells often come from gases like hydrogen sulfide, which build up when the tank is too full, not breaking down waste properly or has a clog or leak somewhere in the system.

3. Standing Water or Saturated Spots 

Unexpected puddles or consistently damp ground above your drain field or tank — particularly during dry weather — can signal a full tank or malfunctioning drain field. Untreated wastewater may be surfacing, potentially causing health issues and soil contamination. 

4. Lush, Green Patches in the Yard

Ironically, overly green, thick grass over your septic field can be a bad sign — it may indicate excess nutrients from leaking wastewater are feeding the vegetation. While it may look healthy, it’s actually warning you that waste is not properly contained and that your septic tank may need service immediately.

5. Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds

Do you hear gurgling when you flush a toilet or use a drain? That air and wastewater noise may signal blocked flow — often caused by a full tank or clogged outlet pipe. It’s a subtle sound but hard to miss once you’re listening.

6. Sewage Backups

This is the clearest sign of a failing septic system — and an emergency. Sewage backing up into sinks, tubs or toilets signals an overflowing tank. Turn off your water, keep people and pets away, and call professionals without delay. 

7. Unexplained Water in the Tank

Correct septic function means water stays at the outlet pipe level. If you suspect the water is unusually high — or drops below that level — you could have a clogged inlet or outlet, a damaged baffle or groundwater seeping in through cracks. 

8. It’s Been Over Two Years Since Your Last Pumping

Regardless of visible issues, homeowners need routine septic cleaning every three to four years, depending on household size and water usage. If you can’t remember the last time your system was serviced, it’s probably overdue.

Let the Experts Take Care of Your Septic Tank Problems

Residential and commercial property owners in counties across southeast Michigan trust Bolton Septic with septic tank cleaning and maintenance because we respond as quickly as possible when you call us — especially if you need emergency service. In addition, our technicians will stay in constant communication with you, starting from when our truck is on the way until we complete the service you requested.

If you’ve noticed any sign of a problem with your septic tank, don’t wait. Call us or schedule a cleaning or maintenance service online to ensure your septic system gets the care it needs — before problems escalate.