One of the responsibilities of having a septic system is understanding how it works and recognizing when repairs and maintenance are necessary. For example, the drain field is a critical component of your septic system, and when it’s not functioning correctly, it can lead to big problems.
Whether you’re new to owning a septic system or have never had to deal with septic problems, it’s important to know and recognize potential signs of trouble. As with most home repairs, getting the issue under control as quickly as possible is essential for reducing potential damage.
What Is A Drain Field?
A drain field (sometimes called a leach field) is a shallow but covered excavation in the soil used as a natural filter for wastewater. After the pretreated wastewater enters the drain field, it percolates through the soil and other materials until it makes its way back into the groundwater.
Drain fields naturally help remove bacteria, viruses, and other harmful materials. However, when the drain field becomes overfilled and floods, it can lead to big trouble.
When too much liquid enters the drain field at once, the soil can’t absorb the liquid fast enough. In some cases, this could occur if the builders didn’t properly construct the original drain field. However, not keeping up with your system’s routine maintenance schedule also leaves the drain field susceptible to failure.
Problems with the drain field are considered septic system emergencies, so it’s vital to address them quickly.
Signs That Your Drain Field Needs Repairs
Problems with your drain field could indicate a potential septic system failure. Therefore, it’s essential to have it looked at right away before the problem gets worse. Here are some common signs that your drain field needs attention:
Backed-up drains: One blocked drain signals a possible drain or pipe issue. Multiple blocked or backing-up drains indicate a problem with your septic system. If sewage is backing up into your drains, it could mean that liquid waste isn’t draining properly into the drain field. It could also mean your septic tank is full, so you’ll want to call a septic professional as soon as possible.
Standing water: If you observe severe puddling or pooling in your yard, especially if it hasn’t rained recently, it could mean your drain field is flooded. Standing water could look like one large pond around your septic system’s location, or there could be many puddles. Even if you don’t see deep puddles or ponding, yet the ground feels soft and overly saturated when you walk on it, it could mean there’s standing water under the surface.
Changes in the grass: Sometimes, problems with the drain field may be less obvious. If you notice the grass is growing faster, taller, and is a brighter shade of green than the surrounding vegetation, it could mean you have a drain field issue. Excess water and nutrients from the septic system can help the grass grow, but it’s not healthy for you or your family.
Foul odors: When the septic system is functioning correctly, you won’t notice any odors or sewage smell in the area. But, if the drain field is backing up and not working properly, standing water and sewage can lead to foul odors. If you notice an unusual or offensive smell in the area, it’s a good idea to have your system checked out.
Let All Septic & Sewer Handle Your Drain Field Repairs And Maintenance
If your drain field isn’t functioning correctly, you’ll want to have it looked at by a trusted professional as soon as possible. The good news is that even damaged or failing drain fields can typically be repaired or restored.
Your drain field is designed to last 20 years or more, but to get the full life out of it, you must keep up with routine maintenance and repairs as needed.
The good news is that the experts at All Septic & Sewer have over 20 years of experience restoring and repairing drain fields. Their technicians will be able to diagnose the problem and work with you to come up with a solution to get your system back in working order as quickly as possible.
No matter what your needs are, All Septic & Sewer is your trusted professional serving King, Pierce, and Thurston Counties. Give us a call today or use our convenient online form to contact us to schedule a consultation.
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