When it rains, it literally pours, which can cause problems with septic systems. This is especially true when they need to be pumped or haven’t had proper maintenance. To fully understand how rainfall can affect your septic system, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how septic systems function. Poughkeepsie NY septic tank cleaning services will solve all of your septic tank problems.
How the septic system works
There are two major components of a septic system. The first is the tank and the second is the drain field. Sewage and wastewater enter the tank through the plumbing system in your home. Then, enzymes in the tank work together to break down solid waste, which treats the water. The partially treated water then flows out to the drain field. The drain field is made up of punctured pipes that are buried underground. The water seeps out of the holes in the pipes and into the ground. From there, the soil filters it. Thus, the treatment cycle is complete.
How the tank floods
Heavy rain saturates the ground around the drain field. This makes it impossible for water to flow out of the septic system. As a result, the water collects in the septic tank. It then travels backward through the plumbing system and finds its way back into the toilets and drains inside your home. When there is substantial soil saturation from heavy rain, the drain field becomes clogged and can’t release wastes. This results in the tank filling with dangerously high levels of liquid, causing it to flood.
How to know if your tank is flooded
If you’ve ever had a clogged pipe in your kitchen sink, then you’ll know that a flooded tank looks very similar. However, if your tank isn’t clogged and just needs routine pumping, it can be tricky to tell if the flooding is the root cause of the issue. It’s important to know that treating a flooded tank is very different than clearing a clogged pipe or even pumping the septic tank. So, be mindful when assessing your septic system’s root issue. Moreover, if water isn’t draining properly in any of your household drains after a heavy rainfall, it’s very likely your tank will be flooded. Since there is no simple way to tell if your tank is flooded, you will want to call the professionals to help you out, like the experts with Poughkeepsie NY septic tank cleaning services.
How to treat a flooded tank
If you open the tank cover and inspect the tank, you can tell if it will need pumping. But, pumping a flooded tank won’t solve the problem if the cause of the flood continues. It will merely fill back up again. When the tank is too full, pumping can actually cause damage. The best course of action is to minimize your water usage at home as much as possible. Limiting the use of any faucets or machines that use water will allow the drain field to dry. This means skipping a shower or taking your clothes to the local laundromat. And remember – if the water doesn’t drain, don’t put more in.
Flood-prevention methods
Routine care and maintenance is the best way to reduce the chance of flooding. Other tips include:
- Only flush material that is biodegradable and septic safe
- Limit water use during heavy rainfalls
- Keep trees away from the tank (helps to avoid root damage)
- Don’t dig/work around the septic tank during rainy conditions
If you’re worried you have may have a flooded tank, or need routine septic tank maintenance, contact us at Jones Septic Services at (845) 452-1123. Our top quality work makes us one of the top septic tank companies in the area. Give us a call today!
