Common Septic Tank Problems

You probably don't pay much attention to what happens to your excess water once it goes down the drain until something goes wrong. It's very important that you make any necessary repairs in a timely manner to prevent very costly damage down the road. Most important is to know where your septic tank and fields are located, especially the access cover. This is needed to both check the water level and condition of your system, and also to also periodic pump outs. Some local municipalities require a regular pump out schedule.

Septic systems can be pretty complex and every system is designed for the house they are installed for. So no two systems are the same. Plus having everything buried underground can make noticing and pinpointing problems sometimes very difficult. If you notice one or more of the following, give O'Brien Home Services a call at 845-477-0220, we have over 25 years of practical experience, repairing and replacing Septic Tanks.

Signs that indicate you may have septic tank leach field problems

If you live in a rural area, you rely on your septic tank to treat and dispose of waste created by the household. Once the waste leaves the home, it enters a septic tank. After solids are diverted, the waste water travels to the leach fields where it is absorbed into the ground.

Drains or toilets in your house are backing up - Backups and clogs can be caused by a tank that hasn't been emptied in a while. However, if your tank and/or leach fields are failing, the waste water leaving your home may not be treated at all. When this happens drains will begin to backup.

Toilets and tub drains take longer to drain - This may indicate a build up of sludge in the waste line or baffles on your septic tank.

Spongy or standing water areas near the septic system - This is the biggest indicator of a serious problem with your system, water that begins to sit at the surface above the tank and fields suggest that the wastewater has no where to go.

Sewer or septic foul odors near the tank - A septic tank system in good working order will be odor free both inside the home and out. Odors are caused by carbon dioxide, methane and hydrogen sulfide, which are byproducts of household waste. This is a direct threat to your health and safety, as well as others. Immediate action should be taken by calling a reputable company that has experience dealing with these problems.

Roots - Tree and Shrubbery roots can also prevent your system from working properly, for more information on root infiltration please check our Drain Cleaning page.

If you notice any of these signs and want a no obligation, confidential inspection of what options might serve you best, give O'Brien Home Services a call today at 845-477-0220.

Don't delay. Periodic inspection is the best preventative maintenance and can save you money by locating and repairing any issues before they can grow into major trouble.