During the rainy season, it’s not uncommon to experience septic problems. Although heavy rain is a primary problem for septic tanks, other issues—such as a water hose or sprinkler system running for excessive periods—can cause the system to function improperly. If your home has a swimming pool, draining it can also cause the same flooding effect as heavy rain.
Plumber Inspection
The main thing homeowners can do to prevent septic problems before the arrival of heavy rain is to have the septic system inspected by a certified plumber. During an inspection, the plumber will detect any issues with the septic tank, drains, and the drainfield. There are several reasons that a septic system could fail:
- Freezing temperatures during the winter may cause damage, including cracked or ruptured pipes.
- One or more drains in the home may be clogged. If the filtering screens inside the system are blocked, the liquid that should go to the drainfield will back up, causing the water to move into sinks, showers, and bathtubs.
- The soil may not be absorbent enough for the amount of liquid being processed through the system.
- Algae or tree roots may be blocking the pipes.
Tips for Dealing with Existing Septic Problems
If you’re currently experiencing septic problems due to excessive rainfall, there are a few things you can do that will allow the drainage to get back to normal. During the rainy season or whenever unexpected heavy rain occurs and saturates the area, reduce the amount of water going down the drain and into the system. The more time you allow the flooded drainfield to drain, the better. Follow these suggestions to help keep things running as efficiently as possible.
- If there are multiple family members in the home, limit the number of showers taken each day to one, and limit the amount of time each shower lasts. If at all possible, skip taking a shower for a day.
- Simple procedures, such as not allowing the faucet to run while brushing your teeth or when washing dishes, helps prevent more flooding of the pipes.
- Make every attempt to flush the toilet only when necessary. Do not use your toilet as a trashcan by flushing tissues and other items that should go in the trash.
- Use the washing machine sparingly. A better alternative is to take the dirty clothes to the laundromat.
For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
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