3 Common Septic Tank Problems You Are Going to Want to Avoid

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When we moved into a more rural part of the country, I was surprised by how many things were different. In addition to having a septic tank, we also had a water well that we had to figure out how to service. However, we quickly learned everything we needed to know, and before I knew it, I was moving in to a place that I felt really good about. Now I can see that all of those little services are a serious benefit, since they help to reduce our monthly costs. Read more on this website about protecting your home and using off-the-grid technologies like septic tanks.

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3 Common Septic Tank Problems You Are Going to Want to Avoid

27 February 2019
 Categories: , Blog


When you have a septic tank, there are a few problems you need to be aware of that are common with septic tanks. These are problems that you can easily avoid if you know what to look for.

1. An Imbalance of Microbes

One of the issues you really want to avoid is an imbalance of microbes. Microbes are essential for maintaining the balance in your septic tank. Microbes are the tiny, microscopic substances that break down the waste inside of your septic tank. Microbes are what power your septic system and ensure that all the waste is broken down.

However, the microbes in your septic tank can easily be disturbed if you put the wrong items down your drains. That is why you should avoid putting chemicals down your drain. Chemicals can kill the microbes in your septic system, thus preventing your septic system from working properly. That is why you should use natural-based cleaners in your sink and tubes to help keep the microbes in the right balance.

During your annual septic inspection, the septic company can let you know if the microbes are unbalanced, and if they are, they can add new microbes to get the balance right again.

2. Drainage Field Damage

Many people don't realize that your septic system extends beyond your septic tank. Your septic system includes a drainage field, where the wastewater from your septic tank goes after the microbes break down the waste. The drainage field is the last step in the water purification process before the wastewater from your septic system meets up with the groundwater.

You don't want to compact the soil above your drainage field. You can avoid compacting the soil above your drainage field by not parking on top of the drainage field or engaging in lots of activity above your drainage field.

3. Not Pumping Your Tank Enough

Finally, make sure that you pump your tank frequently enough. When you have your tank installed, the installation company should let you know approximately how many years should go by between each pumping. Getting a yearly septic inspection will also allow you to keep track of the level of your septic tank and will ensure that you pump your septic tank in a timely manner.

Some of the most common issues that plague septic tanks are an imbalance of microbes, a compacted drainage field, and a tank that does not get pumped enough. Call a residential septic tank cleaning service for more information about or assistance with caring for your septic system.