Septic system failures are costly and disruptive. Regular septic tank maintenance in San Francisco can help to reduce the chances of a system failure, but it’s also important to know the signs of a problem so that you can make an appointment for service before the failure occurs. If you notice any of these signs of a problem with your septic system, make an appointment for an inspection as soon as possible.
Green Grass
You may think of a green lawn as a good thing, but if your grass suddenly looks lusher than normal, trouble could be brewing with your septic tank. Pay particular attention to the grass over your absorption field and grass that looks green even when the weather has been dry. This may suggest that the amount of liquid that is moving into your soil from your septic tank, instead of downward through the system, is excessive. Although you may be tempted to enjoy your healthy-looking lawn, it’s smart to have a septic tank inspection performed before a larger problem develops.
Slow Flushing
When your septic system is failing, you may notice that your toilets are flushing slower than normal. Typically, this will occur in all of the toilets in your house rather than just one. Often, homeowners will notice slow flushing and first try to treat it with plungers and drain cleaners. If you’ve tried other remedies but slow flushing is still an issue, it could be time for a septic tank inspection.
Unpleasant Odors
If unpleasant odors are coming from your drains, then it’s time to make an urgent appointment for septic tank maintenance. Odors may be noticeable throughout your home, or you may notice them only when you get close to your drains. In some cases, a sewage backup in your drains accompanies this odor. When this happens, you will notice black sludge with a strong odor seeping from your drains. This is a sign of a serious septic system problem that requires immediate attention.