Troubleshooting
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 | Risks | Potential Causes | Potential Remedies |
Sewage backs up into house and/or plumbing fixtures don’t drain or are sluggish | Human contact with sewage is a serious public health risk. Many waterborne diseases exist in household sewage. AVOID CONTACT. |
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Sewage surfacing in yard | Human contact with sewage is a serious public health risk. Many water-borne diseases exist in household sewage. |
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Sewage odors — indoors | Toxic gases can cause discomfort and illness. |
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Sewage odors — outdoors | Major nuisance, but no serious health risk |
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Contaminated drinking or surface waters | 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, methemo- globinemia.
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Lift station alarm activated | Tank effluent may back up into the house. |
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Distribution pipes and/or soil treatment system freezes in winter | The system may be inoperable. |
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