Like other essential equipment in your home, your septic system allows you to live comfortably and safely. However, when the septic system is in trouble, it can pose a health hazard that can take thousands of dollars to fix. Here are some signs that a professional needs to look at, and possibly repair, your septic system.

Bad Smells Around the Septic Tank

One sign that your septic system isn’t as healthy as it should be is that it smells foul near where your septic tank has been buried. You might even notice bad smells around the drain field. This is the area where the clear effluent from the septic tank is sent to either evaporate into the air or seep through a gravel bed into the groundwater. Bad smells here are an especially worrying sign because they may mean that the drain field is contaminated.

Gurgling Sounds in the Pipes

Another septic system red flag is gurgling sounds in the plumbing pipes. This is a sign that the pipes are clogged and may be full of sewage. If this is the case, you’ll need professional help to clear the clog and inspect the septic system.

Wet Spots in the Lawn

Persistent wet spots in the lawn near your septic system are also signs that the system needs attention. These wet spots are sometimes accompanied by grass that’s more lush and vibrantly green than the grass in other areas of your yard.

Contaminated Well Water

If sludge or bacteria are leaking from the septic tank, they can get into the groundwater and contaminate it. You may be able to tell that the water is contaminated because you or members of your household get sick when they drink it. These symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea

If you notice people or pets coming down with these symptoms, have your well water tested.

Toilets, Drains and Sinks Backing Up

Another sign that all is not right with your septic system is water, or even sewage, backing up into drains and toilet bowls. This is obviously a sign that something’s wrong, and you need to call for help as soon as possible.

Very Slow Drains

Drains that seem to take forever to clear are another septic system red flag to watch out for. These drains are slow even if you use a snake or a plunger to help clear them.

Call Us if You Think Your Septic System Needs Help

A septic system is easy to overlook until it develops problems. When issues start to develop, they’re almost impossible to ignore. If you believe your septic system needs repair, call our plumbers at Happy & Clean Septic Rescue in Muncie, IN.