A septic system works by allowing wastewater to enter the tank, where solid waste settles to the bottom and scum floats to the top. The remaining liquid flows into a drain field, where it is naturally treated. However, if your septic tank isn’t functioning properly, you may encounter issues, such as:
- Detached Dividing Wall: In some septic tanks, a dividing wall separates two compartments. If this wall becomes detached, it can trap solid waste, leading to system failure.
- Full Tank: A full septic tank can indicate problems with the drain field’s absorption capacity, causing the tank to overflow.
- Wall Corrosion: Corrosion can occur if hydrogen sulfide gas becomes trapped in the tank, potentially leading to leaks or the need for a complete replacement.
- Tree Roots: Roots from large plants and trees can invade your septic system, causing significant damage as they seek moisture from the wastewater.