Leach Field Problems
The most likely septic system problems occur in the leach field. If the quantity of wastewater flowing through the system is more than the drain field can handle, the wastewater will back-up in the yard or house thus creating serious problems.
Symptoms to look for are bad odors, standing water on the drain field, or even worse backups inside the home. Some users will notice strips of bright green grass.
Reducing water usage certainly can help alleviate this problem. However, in most cases, the problem is reduced water percolation in the leach field. This can be attributed to solids from the tank entering into the leach field. Pumping more frequently will take care of this.
Compacted Clay Soils
A common problem is compacted clay soils in the leach field. If it is standing water due to compacted soils, we have a solution for that. It is called Sep2Max.
Some soils provide excellent wastewater treatment; others do not. The design of the drain field should be determined by a soil texture analysis to determine the percentages of sand, silt, and clay. The soil test should also include determination of a high seasonal groundwater table.
Tree Roots
Another cause is tree roots. Whatever it is causing the problem, it must be dealt with immediately. Contact a septic system professional if it involves the tank or damaged lateral lines in the leach field.
Household Products
Soaps, detergents, bleaches, drain cleaners or other compounds as normally used in the household will have no appreciable adverse effect on the system. However, as both the soil and essential organisms might be susceptible to large doses of chemicals and other disinfectants, moderation should be the rule.
Advice from responsible officials should be sought before chemicals arising from a hobby or home industry are discharged into the system. Common sense must prevail.
What else causes septic system problems?
Overuse of the garbage disposal. Just be mindful that to help reduce septic system problems limit the use of garbage disposals.
This can reduce the number of solids and grease entering into the septic system and potentially clog the leach field. The bacteria in the tank digests most of the materials, however, high use of a garbage disposal could increase the frequency of pumping because of increased accumulation of sludge and scum in the tank.
Caution: Do not use with septic systems with clay tile laterals!
