Smelly Septic Tank: If you notice a pungent odor on your property, it could be coming from your septic tank. Septic tanks are more likely to emit foul odors during hot days in the summer. The smell can be very unpleasant and embarrassing if you have guests over. In some cases, the odor can be so strong that it gets inside the house.
This article will discuss what’s causing your septic to smell and five useful tips on avoiding a smelly septic tank. Read on!
What’s Causing Your Smelly Septic Tank
Many factors can cause a septic tank to smell. One of the primary causes of septic tank odors is the accumulation of solid waste and sewage in the tank. Solid waste can include things like food scraps, grease, and hair. These solid wastes can clog the drain field and cause the sewage to back up into the tank. This backup can lead to a bad odor. Another cause of septic tank odors is the presence of anaerobic bacteria in the tank.
Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that can live without oxygen. These bacteria are responsible for breaking down the solid waste in the tank. However, they can also produce methane gas, which is a colorless and odorless gas. This gas can escape from the tank and cause a bad odor. The third cause of septic tank odors is the presence of leachate in the tank. Leachate is the liquid that drains from the tank. It can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause a bad odor.
Five Tips on Avoiding a Smelly Septic Tank
There are many things you can do to avoid a smelly septic tank. Here are five tips:
- Have Your Septic Tank Inspected Regularly
One of the best things you can do to avoid a smelly septic tank is to have it inspected regularly. A septic tank should be inspected at least once every three years. An inspection will allow a septic professional to identify any potential problems with your septic tank.
Here are more tips on avoiding a smelly septic tank:
- Consider Pumping the Septic Tank
If you have a septic tank, it is important to have it pumped regularly. Depending on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household, you may need to have it pumped every one to three years. Pumping the septic tank removes the solid waste that has accumulated in the tank. This waste can cause the tank to become full, leading to a backup and a smelly septic tank.
- Check All Riser Covers
If you have a septic tank, it is important to check all of the riser covers. The riser covers are the covers that are located on top of the septic tank. These covers should be checked regularly to make sure they are secure. If a riser cover is not secure, it can allow odors to escape from the septic tank.
- Don’t Flush Anything Other Than Toilet Paper
It is important to only flush toilet paper down the toilet. Flushing anything other than toilet paper can clog the septic tank and cause it to become full. When the septic tank becomes full, it can lead to a backup and a smelly septic tank.
- Replace the Septic System
If your septic system is more than 20 years old, it may be time to replace it. Over time, septic systems can become worn out and damaged. If your septic system is damaged, it can lead to a backup and a smelly septic tank.
Conclusion
There are a few common plumbing mistakes that can be made when flipping a house. These include not properly preparing the pipes for winter, not insulating exposed pipes, and not correctly installing a sump pump. By taking the time to properly prepare your plumbing before you begin your project, you can avoid these mistakes and save yourself a lot of time and money in the long run.
If you need a reliable residential Septic Tank Inspection you should choose A-1 Septic Tank Service. We’re a trusted septic and non-hazardous pumping service provider ready to assist you in Alameda County. Check out our services and contact us for an appointment today!