A Step-By-Step Guide on What to Do if Your Septic Tank Overflows

A septic tank backup is when your tank is full and starts to overflow, causing issues for your property. You should act quickly if you suspect something is wrong with your septic tank. Here are some ways to keep yourself and your property safe.

Recognize Septic Backup Signs

These are some of the signs that indicate an overflow:

• Slow drains: If multiple plumbing fixtures are draining slowly, this points to a problem with the septic system.

• Sewage backup: Wastewater backing into your home through fixtures tells you your septic tank is too full.

• Odors: Your system needs attention if you smell sewage in your home, around the tank or by the drain field.

• Standing water: Puddles or spongy ground close to the drain field or tank in dry weather, or even lush grass over the drain field, indicate an overflow.

Apply Septic Tank Overflow Solutions

To understand solutions, we must first learn what causes septic backup. The main culprit is a lack of regular cleaning and maintenance. It can also occur from flushing nonbiodegradable products, an aging system or a chemical imbalance brought on by harsh chemicals, which kill the bacteria in the tank needed to break down waste.

If you're suffering from an overflow, here's what you should do:

• Avoid contact with sewage as it's a health hazard. Keep all pets and children away from the area.

• Prevent additional wastewater from entering the system. Do not run water into drains, flush toilets, or turn on showers or tubs, as all water will drain into the system and can create additional overflow or worsen backup.

• Contact a professional service like Bolton Septic. Do not attempt your own maintenance or pumping, as it's a health and safety hazard.

Prevent Future Overflow

Overflows cause damage and can lead to expensive repairs. It's cheaper and will give you peace of mind to have regular maintenance services for your septic tank system. Getting your tank cleaned regularly and pumped every three to four years should keep your system in good working condition.

Schedule Your Service Today

For your septic maintenance and cleaning needs, Bolton Septic is an excellent choice. We're highly communicative throughout the process, respond quickly and offer online scheduling to make things easy. We can help you with residential, commercial and municipal properties.

If you think you're experiencing a tank overflow, get in touch with us today to take advantage of our emergency support!