Common Septic System Problems and How to Fix Them
If you own a home with a septic system, you know how important it is to keep it running smoothly. Septic systems are out of sight, but when something goes wrong, the problems can quickly become impossible to ignore. At Colson’s Septic Services, we’ve seen it all—from minor clogs to full-blown leach field failures—and we’re here to help you understand what might be going wrong and what you can do about it.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common septic system problems homeowners face and how to fix—or prevent—them.
- Septic System Backups
The Problem: A backup is one of the most unpleasant septic issues. You might notice sewage coming up through your drains, toilets flushing slowly, or a foul odor in the house or yard.
What Causes It: Backups are typically caused by a full septic tank, clogged pipes, or problems with the drainfield. Tree root intrusion, grease buildup, or flushing inappropriate materials (like wipes or feminine hygiene products) can also contribute.
How to Fix It:
- Immediate Action: Stop using water in your home to prevent further overflow.
- Next Step: Call a professional to inspect the tank and pump it if needed. If the tank isn’t full, the issue could be in the plumbing or drainfield.
- Prevention: Pump your tank every 3–5 years, and be mindful of what you flush or pour down the drain.
- Clogged Pipes or Baffles
The Problem: Clogs can slow down drainage, cause gurgling sounds in your plumbing, or lead to backups.
What Causes It: Over time, solids can accumulate in the inlet or outlet baffles, or grease and non-biodegradable items can create a blockage in the pipes.
How to Fix It:
- A professional can use specialized equipment to locate and clear the blockage.
- In severe cases, damaged baffles or pipes may need to be repaired or replaced.
Prevention: Avoid flushing non-septic-safe items and minimize grease disposal down the drain.
- Leach Field (Drainfield) Failure
The Problem: A failing leach field can lead to wet, soggy patches in your yard, foul odors, or slow drains in the house.
What Causes It:
- Excess water usage
- Infrequent pumping
- Roots invading the drainfield
- Compacted soil or buildup of biomat (a thick layer of anaerobic bacteria)
How to Fix It:
- Some leach field issues can be resolved with jetting or soil fracturing, but in many cases, a full replacement may be necessary.
- Always consult with a professional to evaluate the extent of the damage.
Prevention:
- Avoid parking or driving on your drainfield.
- Spread out laundry loads and reduce water usage to prevent overloading.
- Pump your tank regularly.
- Septic Tank Odors
The Problem: Bad smells inside or outside your home may signal a problem.
What Causes It: Odors can come from a full tank, broken seals, clogged vents, or even plumbing issues inside the house.
How to Fix It:
- Make sure your septic tank is properly sealed.
- Clean or repair vent stacks and plumbing traps.
- Have the tank inspected to check for overfilling or leaks.
Prevention: Routine inspections and proper sealing can help keep odors at bay.
- Slow Drains and Gurgling Sounds
The Problem: You may notice that your sinks, showers, and toilets are slow to drain, or you hear strange gurgling noises.
What Causes It: These are often early signs of a clog, tank overload, or venting issue.
How to Fix It:
- A septic inspection will help identify whether the issue is with the internal plumbing, tank, or leach field.
- Drain cleaning may resolve the problem if it’s limited to indoor pipes.
Prevention: Stick to a regular maintenance schedule and watch for early signs of trouble.
When to Call a Professional
While minor clogs or odors might seem like a DIY fix, septic systems are complex. Ignoring or improperly handling septic issues can lead to major damage, environmental hazards, or costly repairs.
At Colson’s Septic Services, we recommend calling in a professional if you notice:
- Sewage backups or slow drains
- Persistent foul odors
- Pooling water near the drainfield
- Unusual noises from your plumbing
- It’s been more than 3–5 years since your last septic pump-out
Our team offers expert diagnostics, pumping, repair, and replacement services across Maryland. Whether it’s routine maintenance or an emergency situation, we’re here to help keep your septic system working the way it should.
Trust Colson’s Septic Services for Peace of Mind
Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a big mess. With decades of experience and top-of-the-line equipment, Colson’s Septic Services is your trusted local partner for all things septic. Visit our website or call 443-536-9382 to schedule your service today.