Millions of homes throughout the United States are connected to a septic tank system rather than the city sewer systems. Septic tank systems are used to contain and treat individual household water waste. Initially, installing a septic tank system can be quite costly, but if maintained properly with regular pumping and professional maintenance, it can work for decades. Here are a few tell-tale signs that your tank needs to be pumped (some are more obvious than others).

• Pooling of Water – Pay attention to the area around your septic tank or leach field. If you have water pooling in these areas it could be signal that your tank needs to be pumped, your tank is likely full. When the septic system works properly, water remains below the surface. When the tank fills, solid particles begin to flow into the leach field, clogging it. This allows for water to pool and eventually reach the surface.

• Foul Odors – Your sense of smell can be a great indicator of the health of your septic system. The septic tank collects all the liquid and solid waste from your home. When it gets close to the surface foul odors can start to arise. When you’re outside your home and start to smell foul odors, especially around your septic system, this could mean you need your septic tank pumped. Your tank is likely full or close to being so.

• Slow Drains – Pay attention to the drains around your home. If they begin to drain slowly, this could mean your septic tank needs to be pumped. If you’ve tried using commercial draining products or regular plunging of your toilet to no avail, consider calling a professional to properly diagnose the issue.

• Sewage Backup – Perhaps the most serious and clear indicator that your septic tank needs to be serviced is sewage backup into your toilets, sinks, and bathtubs. If this is happening in your home, contact a professional immediately to have your septic tank pumped to avoid further damage.

• Grass Health Around Your Drain Field – Observe your lawn, if you notice the grass above or near the septic tank system is considerably greener and healthier looking, this could mean your septic tank is close to being full and needs to be pumped. When your tank is full and water begins to build up towards the surface, it allows the grass to grow quicker and greener than the surrounding areas.

Proper maintenance of your septic system will allow it to last for many years. You should have your tank pumped either every year, or every other year. This will help increase the life expectancy of your septic system drastically. To further improve the health of your system, consider using all-natural system additive products such as Maxx’s Products. It replenishes the bacteria and protease levels while reducing the buildup of solid materials in the drain lines. Contact us today at 800-397-2384 for more information. We have professionals standing by ready to help you with your septic tank issues.