Seasonal Rains Causing Septic Problems

Seasonal Rains Magnify Septic Problems throughout Southeastern US

Septic problems are bad enough without having to face the amount of rainfall the south eastern parts of the US have seen thus far in 2013.  These massive rainfalls are great for many things, however owning an older septic system isn’t one of them.  Many septic problems begin with build up in the drain field portion of septic systems.  This build up, combined with the recent rain has many homeowners scrambling to fix or replace their septic systems.  Our experts discuss the proper steps to maintain function and survive septic problems going forward.

Making sure that you understand what causes a septic problem is important in order to avoid problems and survive nature’s little hiccups from time to time.  Your septic system uses bacteria to breakdown solid and semi solid waste into liquid form.  Thus the name “septic” systems.  When bacteria levels in the tank drop waste cannot be broken down properly and your system becomes ripe for problems.  Detergents, bleach, household cleaners and soaps are great for destroying bacteria on the surface of your home, but when it drains down the sink, it keeps killing bacteria, and that means septic problems.

When the waste cannot be completely broken down, it begins to build up in the system.  This eventually results in tiny particles of waste floating within the effluent (waste water) when it travels to your drain field.  When these particles come in contact with the soil, the soil acts like a natural filter and it collects these particles.  Over time, these particles build up and begin to cause problems.  This build up is called bio mat.  It is a collection of organic matter which absorbs liquid until it is saturated, then it blocks liquid from being able to drain.  This is the source of septic problems.

So in order to reverse the build up, you need to first begin by restoring the bacteria levels in your tank / system.  Septic problems can be reversed without a septic contractor, no matter what they might tell you.  Septic systems by definition use bacteria to break down the waste build up.  Logic tells you that adding bacteria will counteract that build up.  NOW, don’t think that if you flush one pack of RID X, you have done enough to solve the problems.  Typically, you would need to SHOCK the system with septic shock treatments.  These treatments blast through sludge and build up while restoring proper levels of bacteria to your system.  If you cannot afford to shock the system, adopt a regular septic maintenance program.  Whether delivered to you automatically or you purchase them in advance, regular and sustained maintenance is the best recipe to avoid septic problems.