Be aware of possible septic system malfunction with these signs | Hometown Focus

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Homeowners realize that their job is never done. Homes require maintenance that ranges from daily tasks like cleaning kitchen countertops to more important tasks like replacing roofs. For many homeowners, it is important that they take care of sewage treatment plants to keep their homes running smoothly.

Estimates from various sources show that approximately one in five households in the United States has a septic system. Homeowners who live in areas with regional sewage systems may not be very concerned about the operation and maintenance of their sewage and disposal system. But that responsibility usually rests directly on the shoulders of homeowners whose homes have sewage treatment plants. It is important to learn how to maintain septic systems so that they work safely and efficiently. Homeowners should know that spotting signs of a malfunctioning septic system is critical to avoiding potentially costly, filthy accidents that can endanger the health of people and native wildlife.

What happens if a septic system fails?

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The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) notes that a dysfunctional septic system poses a threat to human and animal health, as well as the environment. When a wastewater treatment plant does not work properly, untreated wastewater can be released and end up in places where it shouldn’t, such as groundwater, surface water, and seawater. This is true even if it is not visible to the naked eye. People and animals are at risk when sewage treatment plants fail because untreated wastewater contains pathogens and other pollutants that can make them sick.

What are the signs of a malfunctioning septic system?

The Washington State DOH states that properly maintained septic tanks should function reliably for many years. Part of that maintenance is looking for these signs that could indicate a system is not working properly or is failing:

• Water and sewage from toilets, drains and
sinks back into the house
• Bathtubs, showers and sinks are very drained
slowly

• Gurgling noises come from the
Sewage system
• Standing water or damp areas near the
Septic tank or drain field
• Bad odors around the septic tank or drain
field
• Light green, lush, spongy grass over that
Septic tank or drainage field, even when dry
Weather
• Algal blooms in nearby ponds or lakes
• High nitrates or coliform bacteria
in water wells

Homeowners with septic systems should make maintaining these systems part of their routine home maintenance.

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