Why Septic Systems Fail: Common Causes & Prevention

Why Septic Systems Fail: Common Causes & Prevention

A septic system can operate reliably for many years when it is properly designed, maintained and used. But when something goes wrong, the result can include slow drains, sewage backups, unpleasant odors or problems in the drain field.

Many septic problems develop gradually rather than happening overnight.

Understanding some of the common causes of septic-system problems can help homeowners recognize warning signs and develop better maintenance habits.

How Does a Septic System Work?

A typical septic system uses a septic tank and a drain field to manage household wastewater.

Wastewater from sinks, showers, toilets and other plumbing fixtures enters the septic tank. Inside the tank, solids settle while oils and grease tend to rise toward the top.

Naturally occurring microorganisms participate in breaking down some of the organic material in the system.

Liquid wastewater then moves from the tank into the drain field, where it is distributed into the surrounding soil for further treatment.

Because the entire system works together, problems in the tank, plumbing or drain field can affect overall performance.

1. Too Much Grease and Organic Material

Fats, oils and grease can create problems in household plumbing and wastewater systems.

Instead of pouring cooking grease down the drain, allow it to cool and dispose of it appropriately. Wiping excess grease from cookware and dishes before washing can also reduce the amount entering your plumbing.

Food scraps and other solids should also be kept out of drains whenever practical.

Reducing what enters the system is one of the simplest forms of preventive maintenance.

2. Flushing the Wrong Materials

Your toilet isn't a garbage disposal.

Products such as wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products and other materials can contribute to plumbing and septic-system problems.

Even products marketed as “flushable” may behave differently in plumbing and wastewater systems than toilet paper.

A simple rule is to be conservative about what you flush and follow guidance from your local wastewater or septic authority.

3. Putting Inappropriate Products Down the Drain

Household chemicals, paints, solvents and other materials should not automatically be disposed of through a septic system.

Septic systems depend partly on biological processes, and introducing inappropriate materials can interfere with the system or create other disposal concerns.

Follow local guidance for household chemical disposal and use cleaning products according to their labels.

Normal household use of properly labeled cleaning products is different from intentionally disposing of large quantities of chemicals into a septic system.

4. Too Much Water Entering the System

A septic system is designed to handle a certain amount of wastewater.

Large amounts of water entering the system over a short period can affect how efficiently the tank and drain field operate.

Spreading laundry and other high-water-use activities throughout the week, repairing leaking fixtures and avoiding unnecessary water use can help reduce hydraulic stress on the system.

5. Skipping Septic Tank Inspection and Pumping

Solids gradually accumulate inside a septic tank and eventually need to be removed.

How often a tank should be inspected or pumped depends on factors such as tank size, household size, wastewater generation and the amount of solids entering the system.

Rather than relying on one pumping interval for every household, follow recommendations from your local authority or qualified septic professional.

Regular inspection can help determine when service is actually needed.

6. Problems With the Drain Field

Not every septic problem originates inside the tank.

A drain field can experience problems related to excessive wastewater, soil conditions, system age, physical damage and other factors.

Avoid driving or parking heavy vehicles over a drain field unless the system was specifically designed for that load. Structures and inappropriate landscaping can also interfere with septic components.

If you notice standing water, unusually wet soil, persistent odors or sewage surfacing near the drain field, contact a qualified septic professional.

Can Bacteria and Enzyme Products Help With Septic Maintenance?

Biological products containing selected microorganisms and enzymes can be formulated to help break down certain types of organic material.

Culleoka's Natural Based Drain, Septic & Sewer uses beneficial, non-pathogenic microorganisms and enzyme activity to help break down organic waste associated with drains, sewer and septic applications.

Culleoka also offers Natural Based Bio Packs, which provide portion-controlled biological treatment for appropriate waste-management applications.

These products should be viewed as part of a maintenance approach—not as replacements for septic inspection, pumping, plumbing repairs or professional service when those are needed.

Always follow the directions for the specific product and septic system.

Warning Signs of a Septic Problem

Pay attention to changes in how your plumbing and septic system operate.

Possible warning signs include:

• Multiple drains becoming slow at the same time
• Sewage backing up into the home
• Persistent sewage odors
• Gurgling plumbing
• Standing water or unusually wet areas around the drain field
• Wastewater surfacing outside
• Recurring drainage problems

These symptoms can have different causes, so significant or persistent problems should be evaluated by a qualified professional.

What Should You Never Put Into a Septic System?

Good septic maintenance begins with controlling what enters the system.

Avoid using drains and toilets to dispose of materials that don't belong in household wastewater, including grease, wipes, paint, solvents and other inappropriate waste.

Follow local disposal requirements for chemicals and hazardous household materials.

The less unnecessary material your septic system has to manage, the better.

Preventive Maintenance Matters

A septic system shouldn't be ignored until something goes wrong.

Responsible water use, appropriate waste disposal, routine inspection and pumping when needed can all contribute to proper septic-system operation.

Biological maintenance products may also have a role in helping manage organic material when they are formulated for that application and used according to directions.

Culleoka Company's Natural Based Drain, Septic & Sewer provides a probiotic and enzyme-based option designed for drain, sewer and septic maintenance.

[Learn More About Natural Based Drain, Septic & Sewer →]

For more septic-care information, read our How to Care for a Septic Tank Naturally: Do's and Don'ts guide.

Less Toxins. More Life.

God Bless,

Sonny Hobbs
Founder
Culleoka Company, LLC