A septic system handles the waste from toilets, showers, sinks, and washing machines in homes that are not connected to a municipal sewer system. Septic tanks are one of the main components of a septic system. They are usually made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic and are buried underground.
What Causes Septic Tank Leaks?
Over time, septic tanks can develop leaks. These leaks can be costly and cause environmental damage if they are not fixed promptly. Here are some of the common reasons for septic tank leakage.
Improper Installation or Maintenance
One of the most common reasons for a septic tank leak is improper installation or maintenance. If your tank was not installed correctly, it is more likely to develop cracks and leaks. Hiring a professional septic company to install your tank can help prevent this issue.
Lack of regular maintenance can also cause problems for your septic tank. Homeowners often neglect to have routine septic tank cleaning and inspections done, and this can lead to problems over time.
Tree Roots
Another common reason for septic tank leaks is tree roots growing into and damaging the tank. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in sewage water. If there are trees close to your septic tank, you should have it inspected regularly for leaks or damage.
Corrosion
Septic tanks can also leak due to corrosion. This is more common in older tanks that were made of concrete or iron. If your tank is made of these materials, it is important to have it inspected regularly by a professional septic company to check for any signs of corrosion or leaks.
Crushed Pipes
If your septic tank is connected to a drainage field, the pipes leading from the tank to the field can be crushed by heavy trucks or other vehicles driving over them. This can cause a water leak, which can lead to sewage spilling out into your yard.
Groundwater
Groundwater can also cause septic tanks to leak. If the groundwater level is high, it can put pressure on the sides of the tank and cause it to crack or leak. This is more likely to happen during periods of heavy rain or drought.
Damaged Baffle
The baffle is a device that helps to separate the solid and liquid waste in your septic tank. If the baffle is damaged, it can cause the tank to leak.
Septic Drain Field Problems
A clogged or damaged drainfield can cause water to back up into the septic tank, which can lead to leaks.
How To Know If Your Septic Tank Is Leaking
Leak detection can be challenging with septic tanks since they are generally buried underground. There are several signs that you can look for to determine if your septic tank is leaking.
Water pooling around your septic tank
If water is pooling around your septic tank, it can be a sign of a number of different problems, including leaks, structural damage, and even failure of the system. While a small amount of water pooling is normal, anything more than that should be cause for concern.
If you notice water pooling around your septic tank, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the problem.
- First, if there is any vegetation growing near the tank, make sure to remove it. This will help to reduce the amount of water that is able to pool in the first place.
- Next, check the tank for cracks or other damage. If you find any damage, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further problems.
- Finally, make sure that the area around the tank is well-drained. This will help to ensure that water does not have a chance to pool in the first place.
Green or brown patches of grass near the tank
If you notice green or brown patches of grass near your tank, it could be a sign of soil erosion. Soil erosion occurs when the top layer of soil is washed away by wind or water. This can damage plant life and make it difficult for new seedlings to take root.
To help prevent soil erosion, try to keep the area around your tank clear of debris. You should also avoid walking on wet grass, as this can compact the soil and make it more susceptible to erosion. If you have any concerns about soil erosion, contact a professional landscaper for advice.
Strange noises coming from the tank or pipes leading to it
Gurgling sounds may indicate that the tank is full and needs to be pumped, while rushing noises can indicate that the drainfield is saturated and needs to be replaced. By paying attention to these signs, you can help to avoid more serious problems down the road.
Low water pressure or strange smells
All plumbing fixtures in your home should be checked regularly for low water pressure or strange smells. This is especially important for indoor plumbing fixtures, as they are more likely to be used on a daily basis and are thus more likely to develop problems.
If you notice any low water pressure or strange smells coming from your fixtures, it is important to call a plumber right away. These could be signs of a serious problem, such as a leak, that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. By checking your plumbing fixtures regularly and being aware of any changes in performance, you can help to prevent serious problems from developing in your home.
Septic Tank Leak Repair
Leak repair is best left to a professional septic company since the ramifications can be serious if the repair is not done correctly. A septic inspector can not only identify the precise cause of a leak, but also can recommend the most appropriate repairs to ensure that the issue is fully resolved.
Septic Service In and Near Lakeland
When you need a septic company in & near Lakeland, contact Septic & Drainfield Depot. We offer a full range of septic tank services, including residential and commercial leak repair.
Contact us today for a free septic estimate.
