Septic tank maintenance

septic system flooding

Why septic tank systems overflow?

In this article we will cover why septic tank systems overflow? Centuries have passed and the planet as we know it has long benefited from man’s inherent curiosity. So many inventions and innovations have brought about changes that improved lives in every part of the world. Questions kept on springing up. Corresponding answers have satisfied them. And in these answers, new perceptions arose. Ordinary things that people encounter everyday turn into extraordinary moments because of the simple discoveries made. One such common place for such an occurrence is the home. Houses are so much more complex than what they actually seem. They are comprised of so many components that have to be in harmony together so that the entire household could benefit from them.

The homeowner’s curiosity is very useful in maintaining the entire property. If you are one of those who have their own home, you should be aware of your septic tank system. Doing so will give you enough knowledge to care for it and maintain it the best way you can. You should know why septic tank systems overflow because this is one of the most common problems that you will encounter with it. The septic system separates your household from the harmful substances in the wastewater. It treats the wastewater that your household produces so that n harm will befall the environment and the surrounding residences.  Your septic expert could help you with this. Some of the reasons why septic tank systems overflow are:

  1. No pump outs

It’s a basic rule to have the septic tank pumped out regularly. This is because of the accumulated sludge in it that has to be eliminated so that the tank could have enough space for wastewater treatment. If the tank does not undergo any pump out, then the sludge level will go higher. The incoming wastewater will not have enough space to occupy and therefore will only back up and overflow in the home and onto the yard. It will even affect the clean water supply in the area.

  1. RootsThese complex root systems by hardwood plants never stop searching for effluent that’s rich in water and nutrients. The deeper they go, the more they occupy the septic system, especially the tank. Once the tank and the surrounding pipes are completely blocked by the hardwood roots, the incoming wastewater will no longer move forward and be treated. Instead, it will only backup or overflow. The roots should be immediately pulled out manually. If strong chemicals are used to kill them, the surrounding environment will only be polluted.
  2. High water load

Water load of the septic tank depends on the consumption of the household. This is why the septic tank is specifically designed according to the number of people who live in your home. If there is an increase in number of persons, then water consumption increases. If the washing machine and dishwasher are used at the same time, then water load also increases. This condition is aggravated when heavy rains take place. The outpour from the rain gutter and the flood water will force water into the system, making the effluent overflow. There should be a dry well to help accommodate the grey water from the washing machine and dishwasher; water consumption should be regulated; and the gutter should be diverted away from the septic system to prevent very high water load.

  1. Wrong use of toilets, drains, and sinksToilets, drains, and sinks should be treated well if the septic system is to last longer and function better. Harsh chemicals should not be dumped into them because they corrode the physical components of the system and kill the resident bacteria that do all the digestion of solid wastes. Paint, grease, and non-biodegradable materials should not be thrown into them, too, because they won’t be deteriorated by bacteria. They will just stay in the tank and occupy necessary space, resulting to overflow.

Work with your septic expert in making sure that your septic system is well-cared for. With proper knowledge and guidance, your septic tank system will last for decades.