What Is the Most Common Cause of Septic System Failure?

Septic systems do so much work yet rarely receive the services and maintenance they need. The lack of attention and care can lead to hidden issues that evolve into disasters.

What is the most common cause of septic system failure? When our technicians provide a professional septic system inspection in Manitoba, they often encounter surprising issues that later cause the system to stop working properly. So, our team at Lion’s Services listed a few factors influencing failure with guidance on avoiding these problems. Continue reading to prolong your septic system’s longevity. 

What Does a Septic System Do?

Your septic system is among the most essential parts of your property’s plumbing system. Although it remains hidden beneath the ground, you wouldn’t enjoy a sanitary property without it. The septic system is designed to carry wastewater from the building to the municipal sewage system. Once it deposits the waste into the local sewage system, the local system transports the wastewater to a treatment facility. 

Residential, commercial, and industrial properties all need septic systems. They typically consist of four parts:

• Source: The waste originates from the source. The source is the building where occupants deposit and flush away wastewater and other materials. 
• Tank: Solid or semi-solid waste collects in the septic tank. There, various bacteria break the waste down into a sludge. The sludge will move more effectively and quickly through the system. 
• Drainfield: Also known as a leach field, the drainfield transports liquids out of the septic tank, making room for more solid waste. 
• Soil: The type of soil used beneath a drainfield filters any remaining waste from the water released from the septic tank. After it treats the water, the water transforms into groundwater that settles deep into the earth. 

The septic tank is among the most essential parts of the process and the main concern when maintaining the system. 

How To Tell When Your Septic System Is Failing

What happens when your septic system starts failing? You’ll likely pick up on a few nasty but obvious signals that you need professional assistance:

• Slow drainage: Stay vigilant with how your indoor drains perform. When you can’t remedy slow drainage with a readily available solution, you might have a blockage deep within your septic system. 
• Wastewater backups: Does water backup and pool in tubs, toilets, and sinks? When wastewater can’t drain downward, it can only find an outlet at the surface. 
• Unclean smells: You’re likely familiar with how sewage smells. Persistent, unclean smells indicate a failing system. 
• Swampy yards: Has a mushy, wet area formed in your yard? The wastewater might rise to the surface with no other outlet. 
• Unusually green grass: Wastewater might contain nutrients that fertilize the grass it touches. Additionally, the constant water supply helps grass flourish. 
• Invincible clogs: Anything from mineral buildup to some household items can clog the system. At-home remedies like drain snakes and vinegar concoctions won’t resolve clogs lodged deep within the septic system. 

What Is the Most Common Cause of Septic System Failure?

Septic systems can fail for numerous reasons. But what is the most common cause of septic system failure? The answer might surprise you. 

Previously, a lack of regular maintenance was the most common cause. However, more homeowners have taken a proactive approach to maintaining their systems in recent years. Now, heavy water usage influences failure the most. 

The tanks and drainfields can only handle so much waste at one time. An overfilled drainfield doesn’t break down waste products quickly and efficiently. Eventually, the drainfield develops clogs that prevent water from draining deeper into the ground. 

Another reason behind septic tank failure is improper installation. Professionals must install components like the distribution box or drain line at a certain level to encourage unhindered flow. Otherwise, they won’t distribute waste materials evenly throughout the drainfield. 

Other Reasons a Septic System Fails

Although overuse and improper installation cause most septic system failures, many other issues can prompt a nasty downfall. Explore some other causes below and see if the conditions match your problem. 

Damaged Drains

Even sturdy drain materials can develop damage from abuse or misuse. Your drain pipes are located close to the ground’s surface. They undergo temperature shifts and pressure from various sources. For example, if you drive a vehicle too close to one, you could unknowingly crack or fracture it. 

Full Tank

You should have your septic tank pumped by professionals every three to five years. An overfull septic tank leads to recurring plumbing issues and poor waste drainage. Eventually, the sewage could make its way into your indoor plumbing. 

Inadequate Tank Bacteria

Your septic tank harbors a delicate ecosystem of various bacteria responsible for breaking down solid waste products. Many household cleaning products can impact the bacteria population, interrupting their efficient waste breakdown. Bleach, drain cleaners, and detergents don’t just cleanse your home’s surfaces and belongings. They also kill the flora hard at work in the tank. 

Improper Maintenance

You should schedule routine maintenance and inspection services every three years. You can schedule them alongside septic tank pumps. A trained technician will pick up on issues you might not notice or view as a mild inconvenience. Aging septic systems may need inspections more frequently. 

Aging System

Outdated systems become more problematic as they age. Corroded pipes allow waste to escape. Tree roots can infiltrate the subterranean pipes, seeking water and nutrients. Mineral buildup could clog the system. 

Most septic systems last between 20 and 40 years before significant components begin failing. If you live in an older home, schedule an inspection to determine the septic system’s age and identify any issues on the horizon.

Choose King’s Services for Comprehensive Septic System Maintenance

What is the most common cause of septic system failure? We find that continued usage without proper maintenance measures is usually the main culprit. Our team at Lion’s Services can help you avoid a failed septic system when we empty your septic tank and provide other maintenance services. Call 204-815-5878 to schedule an inspection.