Finding an Existing System

Finding the septic system may not be an easy task, but is necessary for proper maintenance of the septic tank, troubleshooting problems, and making future plans for the property. Many counties and cities with permit and inspection programs for septic systems will have this information on file. If no plans exist, the following steps can be taken.

First, locate the septic tank. If the access manhole or inspection pipes are at ground level, they will be easy to find. Unfortunately, they are often buried several inches, or even several feet, below the ground surface.

With a metal rod as a probe, start poking around in the soil 10 to 15 feet from the foundation of the house. A metal detector may be of assistance in finding the tank since most concrete septic tanks contain metal reinforcing rods.

Next, locate the drainfield. Mounds are easy to find, but a drainfield system in the ground may be more difficult. Try looking around the yard in the general direction where the sewer pipe left the house for an area where the grass grows differently. These clues may help locate the drainfield:

• An area where the grass isn’t growing well, or where the grass is greener or grows faster.
• An area where there is a slight depression or mound.
• An area where the soil is soggy when the rest of the yard is dry.

Often, a licensed contractor or inspector has tools to locate the tank. Once the tank is located, be sure to make a map of its location. If the soil treatment system cannot be found, there may not be one or it may be discharging into ground or surface water.

Common Problems

Existing septic systems may fail for a number of reasons. For the owner, the system is failing if it is not treating the wastewater effectively. The most common causes of system failure are excessive water, improper maintenance, or an inadequately designed system. Diagnosing the specific causes may be difficult for the owner and often requires the skills of a professional. The following chart shows common problems and their possible causes and remedies.

Septic System Troubleshooting Guide for Homeowners

Problem: Sewage backs up into house and/or plumbing fixtures don’t drain or are sluggish

Risks: Human contact with sewage is a serious public health risk. Many waterborne diseases exist in household sewage. Avoid contact.

Potential Causes:

• Excess water entering system
• Improper plumbing
• Blockage in plumbing
• Improper operation
• Pump failure
• Improper system design
• Roots clogging pipes

Potential Remedies:

• Fix leaks
• Install water-saving fixtures
• Stop using garbage disposal
• Clean septic tank and check pumps
• Replace broken or cracked pipes and remove roots
• Seal pipe connections
• Avoid willow trees near system

Problem: Sewage surfacing in yard

Risks: Human contact with sewage is a serious public health risk. Many water-borne diseases exist in household sewage.

Potential Causes:

• Excess water use
• System blockages
• Improper system elevations
• Undersized soil treatment system
• Pump failure or improper operation

Potential Remedies:

• Fix leaks
• Install water-saving fixtures
• Clean septic tank and check pumps
• Consult professionals
• Fence off area until problem is fixed

Problem: Sewage odors — indoors

Risks: Toxic gases can cause discomfort and illness.

Potential Causes:

• Sewage surfacing in yard
• Improper plumbing
• Sewage backup in house
• Unsealed ejector sump pump
• Roof vent pipe frozen closed

Potential Remedies:

• Repair plumbing
• Clean septic tank and check pumps
• Replace water in drain traps

Problem: Sewage odors — outdoors

Risks: Major nuisance, but no serious health risk

Potential Causes:

• Source other than owner’s system
• Sewage surfacing in yard
• Inspection pipe caps damaged or removed

Potential Remedies:

• Clean tank and check pumps
• Replace damaged caps
• Repair or replace drainfield

Problem: Contaminated drinking or surface waters

Risks: The above public health risks are magnified by possible ingestion of contaminated water. Drinking contaminated water can cause health problems such as dysentery, hepatitis, and, for infants, methemoglobinemia.

Potential Causes:

• System too close to well, water table, or fractured bedrock
• Cesspool or drywell in use
• Sewage discharges to surface or groundwater
• Improper well construction
• Broken water supply pipe
• Source other than homeowner’s system
• Broken sewage lines

Potential Remedies:

• Replace your well and/or septic system
• Contact a local unit of government to investigate other potential sources

Problem: Lift station alarm activated

Risks: Tank effluent may back up into the house.

Potential Causes:

• Pump failed
• Fuse breaker tripped
• Pump unplugged
• Controls malfunctioning

Potential Remedies:

• Check breaker and plugs
• Check controls and pump
• Make sure professional replaces pump with proper size unit

Problem: Distribution pipes and/or soil treatment system freezes in winter

Risks: The system may be inoperable.

Potential Causes:

• Improper construction
• Check valve in lift station not working
• Foot or vehicle traffic over piping
• Low flow rate
• Lack of use
• Undersized pump

Potential Remedies:

• Check construction
• Examine check valve and/or replace it
• Keep people and vehicles off area
• Increase water use
• Have someone use water in house if you are away
• Increase frequency of pump cycling
• Operate septic tank as a holding tank
• Pump system in fall and use carefully over winter months
• Don’t use antifreeze