How Do You Know When Your Septic Tank Is Full? Six Recognisable Signs

If you own a property that relies on a septic tank, you may be a little unsure about how to care for it, and forgetting to empty your septic tank can be quite serious. If you’ve owned a septic tank for a long time, you will be aware of some tell-tale signs but if not, how do you know when your septic tank is full?

When it comes to septic tanks, people have a lot of questions about when the time is right to have their system drained, so if you want to know when your septic tank is full, the symptoms listed below will be the key things you need to look for.

Six Signs your Septic Tank is Full

1. Slow Draining Water

If you notice that your sink, bath, or toilet is not draining quickly and easily, this could be a warning sign. Slow drains could either be a clog in your septic system or a full tank. Either way, you ignore slow drains at your peril. This is a sure sign that your septic tank is full and needs to be emptied.

2. Unpleasant Odours

A functioning septic system should not emit smells when processing sewage. If you have had your tank pumped recently, however, the odour could be a sign of other issues. A downdraft from the sewer vent pipes is a common culprit.

3. A Really Healthy Lawn

Another possible warning sign is when the grass above your septic tank appears unusually green and healthy. This could be from a full septic tank forcing refuse through the drain field. You may instead have a leak if the extra greenery is concentrated around your tank. Either way, an inspection may be due.

4. Sewage Backup

If the drains in your house show signs of being backed up, you won’t be able to miss it! You don’t want this to happen. It’s the most obvious and damaging sign that your septic tank needs emptying immediately.

5. Gurgling Pipes

If you notice gurgling sounds in your pipes, you shouldn’t ignore them, especially if it is a consistent noise. This is another sign that your septic tank might be full and needs to be emptied.

6. Trouble Flushing the Toilet

Trouble flushing your toilet can be linked to slow drainage. If you’re noticing toilets are struggling to flush or are flushing weakly, your septic tank might be full. If you see this problem across all the toilets in your house, it is likely more than just a local clogging.

Streamline Stresses the Small Stuff with Septic Tank Maintenance

A septic tank maintenance schedule is the best way to avoid the issues we mentioned above. This is a simple but effective way of knowing when your septic tank is full. Once you have determined proper emptying intervals you probably won’t ever see any of the warning signs above.

However, when you do need help, don’t hesitate to call Streamline! We’re here to help with all your septic tank care details. Our team of experts will get your septic tanks inspected and pumped regularly. Call us today!