In this post, Garrett Precast—a premier precast company—explores the common signs of a failing concrete septic tank.
Frequent Backups or Overflows
Sewage flowing back into your drains or the tank overflowing means the septic tank is full or there’s a blockage interfering with the smooth flow of wastewater. Backups and overflows are not just unsanitary; they can also create serious health hazards inside your home.
It’s advisable to pump out your concrete septic tank as needed to avoid backups and drain field failure. Our experts also recommend scheduling routine septic inspections to identify potential issues and have them resolved before they get out of hand. Just like with other concrete precast products, proactive maintenance is key to keeping your concrete septic tank in peak condition.
Septic Alarm Going Off
Modern septic tanks are equipped with septic alarms that go off when there’s a problem. If your alarm sounds all the time, treat it as an urgent problem that needs to be addressed by a local septic or precast company.
A septic alarm often goes off when there’s pump failure, faulty floats, excessive water usage, a clogged filter, and aerator failure. Do not hesitate to seek help from a local septic company when your septic alarm notifies you of a problem.
Wet Spots or Lush Grass Over the Drain Field
Keep an eye on the area above the drain field. Wet spots, standing water, or unusually green grass over the drain field can mean your concrete septic tank is leaking. Left unaddressed, leaking wastewater can attract pests, lead to foul odors, and pose safety hazards to your loved ones. Call a local septic service provider or a precast company to fix the tank before things get out of hand.
Sewage Smells
Foul odors around your yard or inside your home can also indicate a failing concrete septic tank. A properly functioning septic tank contains and processes waste without releasing strong smells. If you notice persistent sewage odors near your tank or drain field, it may mean the tank is cracked, leaking, or not sealing properly.
Cracks And Structural Damage
Concrete tanks are especially vulnerable to cracks and structural damage over time. Factors like soil movement, tree root intrusion, and corrosion from gases inside the tank can weaken the concrete. If the tank develops cracks, untreated wastewater can seep into the soil, while groundwater can leak into the tank, overloading the system.
It’s important to note that concrete septic tanks are not created equal. This is why we recommend sourcing your septic tanks from a dependable precast company. Quality concrete septic tanks last longer and do their job more effectively, saving you money down the road.
As soon as you notice any of these warning signs mentioned above, get in touch with your local septic provider. They have the expertise to diagnose the root problem and provide you with the best advice with regard to how to resolve it. Concrete septic tanks, just like other concrete septic products, need to be fixed in a timely manner to avoid further problems.
Garrett Precast: The Go-To Precast Company for Concrete Septic Tanks
Garrett Precast is a reliable precast company that supplies a wide range of concrete precast products, including retaining walls in Anderson, SC, septic tanks, septic tank risers, distribution boxes, and more. Call us or send us a message online to learn more.
