How You Can Tell When Your Septic Tank Needs To Be Emptied Out

Having a septic system as the main form of wastewater management control in your house carries a number of benefits. You don't have to worry about receiving sewage bills each month, and that can help you save money. There's also the independence and environmental advantages that can give you a sense of pride. Municipal sewage systems often pose a threat to wildlife because there is always the chance that a leak will occur. Septic tank systems are better for the environment because they use natural forms of filtration. However, along with the perks, there's also a bit more responsibility. It's up to you to know when you should have your septic system pumped out. If you start noticing any of the following signs, it's time to empty your septic tank.

Your Sinks Just Don't Drain Like They Used To

A telltale sign that your septic tank is nearing the max can be uncovered by noticing how long it takes your sinks to clear out. When water goes down your drains, does it immediately empty, or do you find that there is frequently standing water in the bowl? If you answered yes to the latter response, there's a good chance that your septic tank is about full.

As the septic tank starts to fill up, there's literally nowhere for new wastewater to go. Depending on how long your pipes are, the wastewater might hang out there for a while, but once the pipes have become full, you're really going to start noticing that the water just won't evacuate your bowls. If you don't act at this point, you might even start seeing wastewater bubble up out of your drains! You definitely don't want to wait until this takes place.

There Is a Stench That Just Won't Quit

Following your nose can also let you know when your septic tank is full. You may start to notice a very pronounced odor in your house. No amount of incense or candles will seem to get rid of the smell. It can become so bad that you literally want to hold your nose each time you enter your house. The problem is likely a full septic tank. Once you have it emptied, you should find that the unpleasant odors go away on their own.

Keeping the waste in your septic tank at an acceptable level is a good practice. Plan to have the septic tank emptied out at regular intervals — by a company like the one at http://www.southernsanitarysystems.com — and you shouldn't have to worry about all of the undesirable results of a full tank.


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