The drainfield (otherwise known as a leach field or absorption field) is a crucial component
of your septic system and an important stage in the treatment of wastewater.
After waste is separated into sludge, effluent, and scum, the effluent makes its way into the absorption field where it is dispersed into a series of perforated pipes. Water slowly trickles into the soil below, where harmful pathogens and impurities are removed naturally as the wastewater is eventually completely purified and safe for use again.
You may be wondering how it’s possible to know if there’s a drainfields problem, so there are several symptoms to watch out for:
1. Sluggish flushing of toilets
2. Slow draining water in tubs, showers, and sinks
3. Puddles above the tank or absorption field
4. Alarms coming from the pumps or high water alert system
5. Unusual strong odors outdoors
6. Weird noises coming from the septic pipes
7. Sewage backup into the home
These manifestations could mean serious issues, so don’t delay calling a licensed and insured Lakeland septic company as soon as possible.
Unsure why your field isn’t functioning properly? There are various causes of drainfield failure that can lead to drainfield repairs or even a full replacement.
1. An overload of sludge that causes biomat buildup
2. Grease in the system causing grease capping which can cut off the oxygen supply in the field
3. Failing to get regular septic tank pumping and cleaning services
4. Damaged drainfield piping from parking vehicles over the area
5. Compacted soil from too much weight (usually due to vehicle parking)
6. Old septic systems that need to be replaced
7. Excess water usage which can cause an overload to the pipes
8. Tree/plant root infiltration into the tank, distribution box, or absorption field pipes
9. Poor system design
10. Soil issues
It can be difficult to properly diagnose a problem with the drainfield, which is why a drainfield contractor who is specifically certified to work with septic systems should be called for a full inspection. During an inspection, a technician will go through a detailed list of checkpoints to identify any abnormalities.
Septic professionals are highly trained and experienced in repairing tanks and drainfields. There are various solutions that can restore your system to working efficiently again.
When there is a buildup of sludge and other non-biodegradable solids like cigarette butts, feminine hygiene products, fine plastics, etc, the technician will need to evaluate how serious the clogs and buildup are. An overabundance of these solids could mean
When there is a buildup of sludge and other non-biodegradable solids like cigarette butts, feminine hygiene products, fine plastics, etc, the technician will need to evaluate how serious the clogs and buildup are. An overabundance of these solids could mean replacing the piping completely.
On the other hand, biodegradable solids generally can be removed and the field can be preserved, saving thousands on replacement costs. Bioremediation is often involved to restore a healthy environment in the tank and absorption field to breakdown solids properly.
While grease should never be put down the drain for any reason, sometimes people make mistakes. When this substance reaches the piping and cools, it hardens (called “grease capping”) and prevents oxygen from entering
While grease should never be put down the drain for any reason, sometimes people make mistakes. When this substance reaches the piping and cools, it hardens (called “grease capping”) and prevents oxygen from entering the pipes.
A septic company can add special enzymes to help break down the grease and restore a healthy biomat.
When homeowners neglect regular pumping services every few years, sludge and black slime can accumulate, causing a backup of effluent. Using high pressure jetting and
When homeowners neglect regular pumping services every few years, sludge and black slime can accumulate, causing a backup of effluent. Using high pressure jetting and oxidizers, septic technicians can remove these harmful solids and restore proper function to the tank and drainfield. Pumping will help maintain a well-functioning system.
If you’re fortunate enough to have intact piping after parking over the drainfield, consider yourself lucky! Even if the system remains functional, the surrounding soil can easily
If you’re fortunate enough to have intact piping after parking over the drainfield, consider yourself lucky! Even if the system remains functional, the surrounding soil can easily become compacted and prevent proper percolation.
With certain equipment, the soil can be “fractured” to allow the appropriate drainage to take place and create a pathway for more oxygen to reach the seepage bed.
Roots can be a real nuisance to your septic system, even causing major cracks and irreversible damage. In instances where the damage isn’t too severe, roots can be cut and
Roots can be a real nuisance to your septic system, even causing major cracks and irreversible damage. In instances where the damage isn’t too severe, roots can be cut and safe chemicals can be applied to prevent new growth. Ultimately, you should remove any vegetation that is growing roots near the septic tank or drainfield.
If you have an outdated or poorly installed system, ultimately it makes the most sense to completely excavate the old tank and drainfield and install a completely new system.
If you have an outdated or poorly installed system, ultimately it makes the most sense to completely excavate the old tank and drainfield and install a completely new system. While it may be costly, the consequences of a malfunctioning system can be even more severe. Our septic company provides many options for financing over several months to minimize the financial impact.
It’s impossible to predict the exact cost for any one of these drainfield repairs due to many factors. The extent of the damage as well as the level of involvement for the repair can vary greatly. You could be looking at anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars or more.
There are several ways to prevent costly issues with your drainfield and septic system, including:
Schedule annual drainfield inspections from a licensed contractor, conserve household water, and don’t put anything into your septic system that shouldn’t be there.
As a licensed septic company In & Near Lakeland, we will do everything we can to make repairs to your current system. However, sometimes the damage is too great and the pipes in the field need to be replaced.
Nothing! These terms all refer to the same thing.
Definitely not. Some systems use gravel while others use sand or different types of soil. Engineered systems can vary greatly in how the field filters wastewater, which also means repairs can differ between two different systems with similar problems.
No matter what the issue is, our team is here to diagnose and treat a wide range of problems and restore your septic system to its normal function. We are licensed and insured in the state of Florida and serve all areas of Polk county. When you use us, we guarantee you’ll never want to go anywhere else, as we consider our customers to be family. Call now for a free drainfield repair estimate.
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