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Home > Common Septic System Issues

Through Southern Water and Soil, your residential or commercial septic system—ensured to be designed and constructed according to code by experts with over 100+ years of combined experience—should function relatively trouble-free.

A septic system is designed specifically to treat human biological waste for safe return to the environment. After wastewater exits your home, it is held in a large tank where solids and liquids are separated. While the solids either rise to the top of the tank (scum) or sink to the bottom (sludge), the liquids are extracted from the tank and travel into the drain field where it is discharged into the soil and treated naturally through filtration. It is suggested that solid waste be removed from the tank every two to five years (depending on water usage) by a certified wastewater professional.

Common Septic System Issues

Although a septic system is meant to handle human waste, other materials tend to make their way into the tank which can cause substantial damage to the entire system. Solid, non-biodegradable waste such as feminine products, diapers, paper towels, grease, hair, and cigarette butts can clog your septic tank while toxic chemicals like paint thinners, solvents, pesticides, gasoline, and other fluids kill off the helpful bacteria essential to breaking down solid waste.

It’s also imperative to remember that all water used in the home is eventually stored in the septic system. From your dishwasher and toilet, to your washing machine and shower, excessive water use can cause system failure. Conserve your water use, especially during rainy season to reduce your risk of drain field backup.

What to Do When It’s Too Late

Improper usage of your household plumbing fixtures can lead to severe problems with your septic system. Here are a few signs your septic system is not working properly:

– Odors, surfacing sewage, or lush vegetation growth in the drain field area

– Plumbing or septic tank backups

– Slow draining fixtures

– Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system

– Well and tests that show the presence of coliform (bacteria) or nitrates

Whether your home or business is based in Lutz, Plant City, Zephyrhills, Brandon, Land O’ Lakes, Dade City, Odessa, Wesley Chapel, and beyond, Southern Water and Soil is ready to repair any septic system issue. During each repair, they will inspect the septic tank cover, septic tank, distribution box, inlet/outlet t’s, baffles, drain field lines, and other system components to halt septic system problems that could occur in the future. Their goal is to increase the longevity of your system and bring you peace of mind. When your septic system is failing, they’ll be sure to create a comprehensive and cost-effective solution through the use of innovative products.

Watertight Riser Package

Water is one of our world’s most important and vulnerable natural resources. Therefore, knowing how your septic system works is important and will save not only save you trouble in the long run but hundreds of dollars as well. The technicians at Southern Water and Soil will be sure to educate you on the ins and outs of your system during installation and repair. In addition, feel free to contact them at any time with questions or concerns.