Warning Signs to Replace a Septic Tank

There are signs that your client may need to replace a septic tank and it’s important to help them identity if. Septic tanks are relatively uncommon. According to statistics, only about 20% of homes in the U.S. rely on this type of plumbing. This figure still accounts for millions of homes, so groundwater operations specialists need to know the maintenance basics. It includes knowing when it’s time to replace a septic tank. Failure to empty or replace a tank can cause waste to accumulate and leak into the surrounding soil.

The Four Signs Your Client Must Replace a Septic Tank

Anybody who’s wondering how to know when it needs replacing should refer to the following four signs.

Groundwater Operations Recommends a Replacement

If your clients have a service call from a groundwater operations specialist, the specialist should assess the septic tank to see if it requires maintenance or replacement. If they recommend the latter, it’s essential to pay attention to this recommendation and replace it as soon as possible. Groundwater and plumbing specialists are uniquely qualified to identify the symptoms of a tank that’s gone bad.

The Grass Is Unusually Green in One Area

One of the signs a specialist may identify is a patch of unusually green grass. Similarly, the grass in a specific area may grow faster than in other areas. Both of these phenomena may indicate that a septic tank is leaking. Waste that escapes from the tank will act as a fertilizer for the grass, and this will cause it to exhibit uncharacteristic growth. It is a sign, precisely, that the leach field of the septic tank is failing. Other signs of a failing leach field include soggy ground surrounding the septic tank.

Drains Are Taking Too Long To Drain

In some cases, the property attached to the septic tank may also display signs of a problem. If drains suddenly take too long to drain, for example, this is a surefire sign that it needs a replacement. It happens when the tank gets backed up due to continuous overuse and failure to empty it. It will surpass the tank’s capacity and cause waste to back up, which in turn, prohibits the drains at a property from draining correctly.

Your Groundwater Operations Specialist Finds Gurgling Sounds

Finally, a groundwater operations specialist may hear gurgling noises when they approach the location of the septic tank. It is yet another sign that it is likely full and needs emptying or replacement. This gurgling sound may also come from the drains and pipes connected to the property with the septic tank. Gurgling noises occur when there’s a blockage in the pipes connecting a septic tank and the adjacent property. A specialist will need to clear the tank’s drain-vent system or replace the tank.

About Watercolor Management

Watercolor Management has insured the water industry for over 30 years. Our policies include unlimited defense cost coverage in the event of a lawsuit against you. Call us at (855) 929-0824 or email info@watercolormanagement.com for a quick quote for your Water Business Professional, Products/Completed operations, Pollution and General Liability Insurance.