While a properly running septic tank remains largely unseen, it’s not something you want to forget about.

Trust us when we say a septic tank issue is one of the last things you want. Smells start to arise. The lawn around your tank becomes soft and swampy. Drains begin to back up. Any and all of these can be a tell-tale sign that you have a septic problem.

What worse is septic tanks aren’t just unpleasant; they’re a health risk, spreading disease and sickness.

While proper maintenance and inspections should keep you from any nasty surprises, eventually, your septic tank will need replacement. The question is, how do you know when that time has come?

The Cause of the Problem

When you start having sewage problems, it means your tank isn’t doing its job. There can be a number of reasons for that. A septic tank is designed to take the waste from your home or building, filter it, and dispose what it can.

The waste comes into the tank. Solid waste sinks to the bottom, forming sludge. Lighter waste floats to the top, creating scum. Wastewater sits in the middle where it’s syphoned out.

Left unclean, these layers will begin to merge. Solid waste can get into the pipes, causing them to clog and the system to crack or back up, resulting in leaks and mess.

Repair and Replacement

If the tan itself is in relatively good condition, parts can often be repaired and replaced, rather than installing an entirely new tank. This saves time and money.

For example, replacing the baffle, which prevents scum from building up in pipes, costs considerably less than replacing a septic tank.

If you’re experiencing standing water between the tank and your drainfield, the problem is likely a broken pipe, which can also be replaced.

A quality septic tank should last around 20 years. Of course, that’s if it’s handled properly.

The Best Defense is a Good Offense

If you want to avoid septic surprises and extend the life of your septic tank, you need regular inspections, waste removal, and cleaning from a septic professional. This will not only keep things running smoothly, but it will help you catch problems before they arise.

And when the time comes to replace your septic tank, they’ll make sure to let you know.

For all of your septic system service needs in the Dayton area, AAA Wastewater is here. Contact us today.