If you’ve started noticing strange issues around your yard like standing water that won’t go away, foul sewage odors, or soggy patches in the grass, your drain field – a critical part of your septic system – might be in trouble. Additionally, if your sinks and toilets are draining slower than usual, your drain field may be failing.
Our Point of View:
At Quality Septic Inc., we believe your septic system relies on a well-functioning drain field to filter and disperse treated wastewater safely into surrounding soil. And over time, a drain field can become overloaded or clogged, preventing it from absorbing water properly.
Common causes of drain field backups include:
- Sludge or Solid Buildup – When the septic tank isn’t pumped regularly, solids can escape and clog the drain field pipes.
- Excess Water Usage – Too much water entering the system overwhelms the drain field, preventing proper absorption.
- Tree Root Intrusion – Roots from nearby trees or shrubs can damage pipes and block wastewater flow.
- Soil Compaction – Driving over or placing heavy objects on the drain field can compact the soil, reducing its ability to absorb water.
How to Know If Your Drain Field Is Failing:
If your drain field is failing, you might notice one or more of the following:
- Standing Water: Pools of water near your drain field accumulate, even when it hasn’t rained.
- Sewage Odors: A strong, foul smell coming from your yard or drains.
- Slow Drains and Gurgling Sounds: Toilets, sinks, or tubs draining slower than usual.
- Lush, Green Patches in the Yard: Areas of grass that look greener or grow faster than the rest of your lawn could indicate excessive moisture from a failing drain field.
What You Can Do to Fix a Failing Drain Field:
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: If you notice any of the above signs, call a septic professional immediately. At Quality Septic, Inc., we can determine the exact cause of the problem and recommend the right solution the first time around.
- Pump Your Septic Tank: Prevent solids from reaching the drain field by keeping up with routine septic pumping every 3-5 years.
- Avoid Overloading the System: Reduce water usage by spreading out laundry loads, fixing leaks, and installing water-efficient fixtures.
- Protect the Drain Field: Avoid parking cars, building structures, or planting trees and shrubs over the drain field area.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late:
A failing drain field can lead to costly repairs and environmental hazards if not addressed promptly. At Quality Septic, Inc., we specialize in diagnosing and repairing drain field issues to keep your septic system running efficiently. If you’re seeing signs of trouble, don’t wait—call us today!
Contact Quality Septic, Inc. to schedule an inspection and ensure your drain field is working as it should. Your septic system depends on it!
