Common Reasons for Septic Tank Backup

Common Reasons for Septic Tank Backup

The thought of a septic tank backup can be terrifying for most property owners. That’s why it’s advisable to consult an expert plumber for regular maintenance to mitigate the devastating repercussions of a septic tank backup. At Metro Septic Pumping, we have a team of expert plumbers who are experienced and help you prevent wastewater backup. There are many causes for wastewater backup in properties, and that’s why it’s advisable to consult an expert to ensure that the actual cause is determined for effective repair or replacement.

When there’s backup from your septic tank, the most common solution is usually septic tank pumping. Once we have pumped the septic tank and extracted all the solid waste that could lead to a potential backup, many other factors need to be considered. Clogging is usually the main reason why property owners experience a backup. Some of the main causes of clogging in the drainage lines and septic tank include:

The Roots

Roots are often the main reason why drain lines clog, resulting in a backup. Although trees play a vital role in the aesthetics of our property and offer a myriad of benefits, their roots, on the other hand, are doing the exact opposite. The main purpose of the root system in a tree is to detect water and minerals that are essential for growth. All it takes for the tree to find its way inside the drain line is a mere crack, whereby a hair-thin root grows and multiplies inside the line. This usually results in clogging of the pipe, and if it is not dealt with in time can cause a rupture which brings significant complications.

If the root system growing inside the lines is not fully developed, you need a high-powered water-jetting or an automated augering cutter tool. After the roots have been cut out, the most effective way of ensuring this doesn’t happen is by using chemicals to prevent future infestation. Water-jetting might not be the answer if you incurred a major infestation, and major repairs need to be carried out for a healthy septic system.

Grease

Pouring grease down the drain is one of the most common ways most homeowners usually bring about a backup in the septic tank and drain lines. Grease solidifies when it comes into contact with cold water, which hardens inside the drain lines before completely clogging it. This usually leads "to overflowing sinks, toilets, showers, and many more. Besides pouring grease down the drain, there are many other things that one should avoid from flashing, such as napkins, bleach, and many other solid materials that have no business going down the drain.

If your drain system didn’t properly divert surface water and groundwater and drained far from the septic tank, then there’s a high chance that this will cause a backup in your septic tank. The only long-term solution for excessive rain is to ensure you have proper drainage. Regular septic system maintenance can help you prevent backups and avoid water damage. For information on how to maintain a healthy pump, contact the professionals at Metro Septic Pumping.