As a homeowner in Midland, TX, maintaining a well-functioning septic system is crucial for the health and safety of your home. Since 1985, Action Air Plumbing & Septic has been the trusted expert in the area, providing reliable and professional services. Over the years, we’ve seen countless septic systems and understand the importance of recognizing early warning signs of potential issues. In this blog, we will discuss the top 14 warning signs that indicate you might need a new septic system, helping you take proactive steps to avoid costly repairs and maintain a healthy home environment.
Here are the top 14 signs you need a new septic system.
1. Foul Odor
When septic systems begin to fail, there is often an obvious sewage-like odor that is evident both inside and outside the home. This foul odor may occur before there are any visible signs that something is amiss. You may notice a rotten egg or sulfur smell that may indicate that the septic tank needs to be pumped. This type of smell could also signify that raw sewage has escaped the septic tank or that a drain is blocked, causing sewage to back up. If you think you need a pumping or a whole new system, give the experts at Action Air Plumbing & Septic a call anytime – (432)620-8900.
2. Lush, Green Grass
While having vibrant, healthy grass may sound like a good thing, it could also be a telltale sign that there is something wrong with your septic system. If the grass is only very green around the septic tank, it could mean that the system is overflowing with excess water into your yard or drain field. The wastewater essentially acts as a fertilizer, causing your grass to grow faster and healthier.
3. Slow Drains
Septic systems are made up of a series of pipes and other components that must be in good working order to ensure that waste flows smoothly from inside to outside the house. If pipes in your home are constantly backing up, it could be a sign that your system is clogged and in need of repair or replacement. Ignoring a slow drain could lead to more serious problems later on, so it’s important to bring in one of the professionals from Action to take a look. Give us a call at (432)620-8900 or contact us here – https://actionairplumbing.com/get-appointment/
4. Frequent Pumping
Do you frequently have to have your septic system pumped because it’s overflowing or causing your plumbing to back up? This may become very expensive over time, signaling that your system may be reaching the end of its life. When inspected, a professional may see several signs of a failing septic system, such as solid accumulation in the tank, which indicates that solids are not being properly broken down. The tank may also constantly overflow, leading to unexpected messes and foul odors.
5. Standing Water
Pools or puddles in your yard can be a sign that your septic system should be replaced. Standing water in the yard or leach field may signal that the septic system is not disposing of wastewater properly. Instead of the water being absorbed into the soil, it’s dumping the excess wastewater into the yard, causing the leach field to appear soggy or flooded. If you encounter standing water in your yard, don’t hesitate to reach out at (432)620-8900, and we’ll get a technician out ASAP.
6. Contaminated Well Water
If you have potable water sources, such as a well on the property, a basic septic system inspection will generally include water quality testing. The presence of various contaminants in the water, such as bacteria or nitrates, could show that the septic system is experiencing a leak that needs to be immediately resolved to reduce any health or environmental impacts. A failed water test is a major problem and a direct sign that you need a new septic tank installation.
7. Gurgling Sounds
Gurgling or bubbling sounds when you use a plumbing appliance, such as a toilet, bathtub, or washing machine, can indicate an internal problem in the septic system. This type of noise is common when there is a blockage in the pipes, preventing the smooth flow of wastewater. Failure to have the problem inspected and resolved could lead to a backup. If you’re hearing unusual noises in your house, give us a call at (432)620-8900, and we’ll help properly diagnose the issue.
8. Algae Blooms in Nearby Water
While the presence of algae in low to moderate amounts in certain lakes and rivers is usually not a cause for concern, a sudden surge of excessive algae blooms in nearby water sources could be caused by your failing septic system. These blooms are caused by phosphorous or nitrogen contamination, leading to abnormal algae growth. However, this system can often be difficult to diagnose without assistance from a professional.
9. Increased Household Size
Although adding people to your household does not mean you need your septic tank or system replaced, it is a reason to consider an upgrade. Septic systems are sized based on the number of people living in the home, so it is essential to have a septic system installed that will accommodate all occupants and plumbing appliances.
Another mistake that is often made is adding an additional home to an existing septic system. This is a recipe for failure since the septic system is improperly sized to handle this extra load.
10. Toilet Flushing Problems
Toilet flushing issues are a common sign of a problem within the pipes or other components of the septic system. After flushing the toilet, it’s normal to hear a low hissing sound as the toilet tank refills. However, other sounds like bubbling or gurgling could signal a clogged pipe. You may also notice other serious signs of a problem, such as a slow-flushing toilet or a shower or bathtub in the home that takes much longer to drain than normal. If you encounter issues, we’d love to help you out! Give us a call anytime at (432)620-8900.
11. Defective Septic Tank Seal
Septic systems contain seals that prevent wastewater, byproducts, and toxic gases from escaping. Over time, these seals can begin to deteriorate from natural wear or tear or physical damage to the system. Regular septic tank inspections will usually include an examination of the seal. However, if you haven’t had your system inspected in a long time, the seal could have cracked, allowing liquids to seep out of the system.
12. Old or Outdated System
No septic system lasts forever and will eventually need to be replaced with an upgraded model. This is especially true if you recently purchased a home and don’t know how old the existing system is or whether it’s working properly. The components in these systems degrade over time and, without replacement, can contaminate your groundwater and damage your property. If your system has reached its expected lifespan, consider replacing it before it begins causing problems. The professionals at Action Air Plumbing & Septic have been the trusted experts since 1985 and would love to help you with a new system. Call (432)620-8900 anytime or contact us here – https://actionairplumbing.com/get-appointment/.
13. Incorrect Septic Tank
While not common, it is possible for a home to have the incorrect septic system installed. Septic tanks are chosen for a particular home based on a variety of factors, such as the size of the home, the number of residents, and local codes. Most systems are also gravity-fed, meaning they must be installed at the appropriate soil depth to effectively move waste. If the incorrect tank is installed or installed improperly, consider a new septic system.
14. Recommendation from a Pro
If you hire a professional to inspect your septic system and they recommend a replacement, it’s probably time for a new septic system. Septic systems should be inspected at least every three years and pumped at least every five years. With proper care, a septic system can last between 15 and 20 years without encountering any major issues. Some types, such as concrete septic tanks, have an average lifespan of 40 years or more. A professional can provide guidance on when to make this upgrade. If you’ve been told you need a new system and you’d like a second opinion, please give us a call anytime at (432)620-8900.
Recognizing the warning signs of a failing septic system is essential for maintaining the health and safety of your home. By staying vigilant and addressing issues promptly, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your septic system operates efficiently for years to come. At Action Air Plumbing & Septic, we pride ourselves on being the trusted experts in Midland, TX, since 1985.
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above or have concerns about your septic system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (432)620-8900. Our experienced team is here to provide professional advice and reliable service to keep your home’s plumbing and septic systems in top condition. Contact us today for a consultation or to schedule an inspection.
