What To Do If You Suspect Your Septic Tank Is Leaking
The septic tank in any residential septic system plays an essential role in how the system works. Residential septic tanks that begin to leak can cause many problems, and the solution often requires the replacement of the tank to ensure the system works correctly and the soil around the tank recovers.
Septic Tanks
Residential septic tanks are parts of larger septic systems that replace the sewer system for homes too far from town to connect to the sewer line. These homes often have a complete septic system that includes a septic tank, drainfield, and plumbing that converts waste from the toilets, shower, and sink drains to organic matter that can run off into the soil after treatment.
Septic tanks use an anaerobic process inside the tank that depends on water and good bacteria to break down the waste so it can run off into the drainfield and pass through multiple layers of sand, gravel, and other materials to be safe. If the septic tank leaks, the liquid, and the bacteria can leach out around the tank, and the process fails, causing the tank to back up.
In most cases, this becomes noticeable because the soil around the tank gets saturated with water that has a very unpleasant odor. The problem can be so bad that puddles of standing water develop on the surface near the tank if the leak goes undetected for an extended period. Septic tank pumping can resolve the issue temporarily, but if there is a leak in the tank, the system will back up again and require service very quickly.
Tank Repair
When there is a leak in the residential septic tank on your property, a septic system contractor can inspect the system to determine where the problem is. If the residential septic tank cracks, the contractor will usually recommend replacing it, and that repair involves digging up the system.
Residential septic tanks are typically made from concrete, and to get the tank out, an excavator will need to remove the soil around and over the tank. Once the tank is uncovered, the excavator or a crane can lift it out and set a new tank in its place. It is a good idea to have the septic contractor check the drainfield and other plumbing in the system while the work is underway and make all the repairs at one time.
If the soil is badly saturated with sewage, it may be necessary for the contractor to remove the dirt and replace it with some clean fill after the new tank is installed. Residential septic tanks will typically last for years without damage, but cracks can occur, and the best way to stay ahead of problems is to have septic tank inspections every couple of years.
To learn more, contact a septic service in your area such as A-1 Complete Septic Tank Service.