With thunderstorm season on the way, the likelihood that your septic tank will flood is rising. For that reason, it is critical to keep a watchful eye for signs of a flooded system. If you notice that drains are emptying slowly, you may have a problem.
Do not pump. Reduce water use instead
When flooding arrives, many people like to pump. However, if the ground is truly waterlogged, pumping could result in further damage to the tank.
If you are in the midst of serious flooding, then stop all non-essential water use immediately. Do not use water-using appliances and avoid flushing your toilets unless absolutely necessary. If washing clothes, use the local laundromat.
In some cases, you may have to arrange to get your septic tank emptied more frequently until the groundwater subsides. Failing to do this can draw mud and silt into the tank.
Do not drink well water until it is tested
If you suspect your septic tank is flooded, do not drink any well water until you have had it tested.
Many homes with septic tanks for waste also have wells for fresh drinking water. It is a great way to become more independent and get off-grid.
However, following a flood, wastewater can travel out of the septic tank, into the drain field, and then down through the soil into the water table. If the movement of water in the water table is towards the well’s reservoir, then it could contaminate drinking water.
You can test your well water with a water test by a state-certified laboratory. They will tell you whether you have germs or other contaminants in your drinking water that could make it unsafe. You may need to repeat testing several times to confirm the safety of the water.
Get your septic tank inspected professionally if you suspect damage
If you think you have a flooded septic system, then call a professional to come and inspect the damage and see what can be done about it.
If the flooding is bad, the septic tank will float above the ground - something which can potentially damage the inlet and outlet pipes. If these pipes crack or break, then sewage material can flood out over the rest of your property. Wet weather and flooding can make it travel further, going both around your home and deep into the ground.
Most installers place septic tanks two to four feet below the ground, a short distance from the drain field. When the ground is dry, the septic tank safely takes waste from the home for processing. However, when it is flooded, waste can escape.
Please note that professionals will not be able to pump your septic tank system until the flooding subsides. Pumping beforehand can allow silt and mud to get into the septic tank which only creates more problems down the road.
Waiting for pumping can seem like a strange thing to do. But it is the best strategy. Then, and only then, can professionals deal with the health hazard.