Septic tank filters help prolong the lifespan of your system by filtering solids, but they can become clogged. When this happens, you'll want to have the problem addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage, expensive repairs, and potential health hazards.
Unfortunately, many people do not realize their septic tank's filter is clogged until the issue has become serious, and this can cause anything from drywall damage to blocked pipelines. With that in mind, read on to discover five common warning signs that your septic tank filter requires attention.
1. Slow Draining Fixtures
If your septic tank filter starts to become clogged, wastewater won't be able to pass through as easily. This means your sinks, showers, and toilets may start to drain more slowly. This can be inconvenient, but it's also one of the earliest signs that your septic tank filter needs to be changed.
2. Unpleasant Odours
As you already know, the waste that collects in your septic tank is not the most pleasant of liquids. When a filter becomes clogged, you may start to notice unpleasant smells creeping up into your home as effluent accumulates in the main drain line. If your drains start to produce musty or unpleasant odours, there's a good chance the septic tank has developed a clog somewhere.
3. Odd Sounds
Most people shrug off gurgling sounds from their drains as nothing to worry about, but such sounds are common signs that your septic tank requires attention. They are created when air is forced to escape from the system when wastewater cannot pass through a clogged filter, and they often sound a little like your drains have an upset stomach.
4. Warning Alarm
Not all septic tanks have alarm systems, but many newer systems do. That's good news since an alert will often be provided if there is a malfunction, including a clogged filter. Like the warning sign on your car's dash, these can be easy to ignore when there are no other symptoms of trouble, but that often proves to be a costly error.
5. Sewage Release
If you ignore or miss any of the warning signs listed above, you may eventually start to find that untreated sewage is being released around the septic tank or drain field. In some cases, it may rise up pipes and back through drains. This is a warning sign you'll be unlikely to ignore, and it almost certainly means there's a clog in the system.
To find out more, contact septic system services.