Your home's septic system is more than just a large tank
buried underground that holds waste. Another crucial component is the drainfield.
The drainfield is a set of perforated pipes that allows the water to drain from
the septic tank.
The drainfield is just as important as the septic tank. Any
problems or damage to the drainfield can result in a failure that renders the
septic system unusable. You should stay aware of any problems that may arise
with your drainfield. The following are some issues that may indicate your
drainfield has a problem.
Your Drainage May Slow
One indicator of a septic system problem is slow drainage
from your sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. If the water will not drain at all, the
issue typically will be with the tank itself. However, if the drainage is just
slow, chances are you have a problem with the drainfield. The drainage will
continue to work but will not drain at its normal rate.
Once you notice slowing drainage, call your septic system
contractor to ensure you have no issue with the drainfield. The problem could
just be a clog in a line or other outlet. No matter the problem, any drainage
issues need immediate attention.
You See Water Puddling in Your Lawn
When a pipe in the drainfield breaks, it will send too much
water to the field. This water leaves the drainfield at a faster rate and
cannot absorb into the soil as quickly. This results in water puddling through
the lawn where the drainfield pipes are.
You may also notice water puddling near the septic tank
location. When the drainfield pipes are damaged or clogged, the water level
inside the septic tank will rise. Eventually, the water will rise high enough
to push water and waste to the surface through the inlet pipe.
During your septic tank inspection, your contractor will
evaluate the water level in the tank. If the water is too high and your tank
has been recently pumped, you may have a problem with the drainfield.
You Notice Increased Lawn Growth
If your grass or shrubs begin to suddenly burst with color
in the areas of the drainfield, you probably have a broken or damaged pipe.
When the drainfield leaks water more than it should or if decomposed waste gets
to the surface, it causes grass and other plant growth.
The added water and nutrients from the waste fuels the plant
growth. If you suddenly see lush green grass taller than the rest of the grass
in your lawn, check your drainfield.
You Begin to Smell Sewage
Any time you start to smell sewage in your yard, call for an
immediate inspection. As you walk near the drainfield, you may begin to smell
faint scents of sewage odor. If the smell does not subside or becomes stronger,
have a professional inspect your drainfield.
Your Technician Notices an Issue With Returning Flow
This issue is only detectable when you have a professional
septic system inspection. Your septic system contractor may notice water and
waste going into the tank in reverse. If the water sits in the drainfield
instead of absorbing into the ground, the water goes back into the tank
backwards. When this happens, one or more of the pipes needs replacing.
If you notice any problems with your septic system, please
call Allen Turner Septic Tank
Service. Our experienced technicians are ready to help with any aspect of
your septic system, including the drainfield. Please let us know what you need,
and we will also happily answer any questions or concerns you may have. We look
forward to speaking with you soon.
