Septic tanks are the answer to all your wastewater problems if you live in Yorkshire but are not connected to the mains system.
The right septic tank will ensure that your home and the people in it are kept safe from contamination, however like anything, whether it be your plumbing, or electrics things can go wrong and when they do you need to get onto it straight away.
How to spot septic system problems
- Water is draining very slowly from sinks, drains and toilets and even backing up into the home.
- You experience unpleasant odours.
- The plumbing system is making a gurgling sound.
- Grass around the septic tank area is bright green.
- There’s water pooling near the septic tank.
The reasons for septic system problems
1. Drains are clogged
The problem could be that a single isolated drain has become clogged up in which case you might want to try these DIY solutions:
How to fix a septic system that is clogged:
- Run hot water down the drain – this may flush out anything causing a blockage.
- Pour a cup of soda into the drain then follow with an equal amount of vinegar – leave this for around half an hour then flush with hot water.
- Use a drain snake to remove any blockage.
2. The tank is old
Septic tanks have been around for a long time but if yours is as old as the hills then maybe it’s time for you to get a new one.
How to fix a septic system that is old: install a new one
3. The tank is overloaded
It could be that the pipes have become clogged with non-biodegradable products (see above). Looking at fixing septic system where the tank is overloaded? It is possible to do it yourself.
How to fix a septic system that is overloaded:
You could try emptying the tank, but only if you have the right equipment including protective gear to do this properly.
4. The ground has moved
If the ground around your septic tank has shifted it could really impact on the pressure surrounding your septic tank. This is a problem which needs an expert to assess and then fix. Failure to do so could potentially cause fractures and cracks in the walls of the tank.
How to fix a septic system when the ground has moved:
The septic tank may need to be emptied more often, or failing that you may have to buy a replacement tank.
5. You have neglected routine maintenance
They say prevention is better than a cure and in the case of your septic tank they’d be right. You need to empty your tank on a regular basis (this depends upon its size but let’s say once a year) to avoid any problems with water backing up into the house.
How to fix a failed septic system: Don’t let it happen in the first place!
Your septic tank is a complex network complete with chamber, pipes and filters that are designed to treat human waste, so if you are in any doubt about doing it yourself why not call in the experts: www.yorkshireseptics.co.uk