Can a Failing Septic System Be Fixed Without Replacing It?
Are you dealing with slowed draining, gurgling noises, or foul odors coming from your drains and lawn? Don’t let the problem get any worse. It’s time to schedule an inspection of your septic system.
Unfortunately, a failing septic system can wreak havoc on your home and property. From draining complications and sewage backups to pooling waste in your yard, you need to act quickly to schedule your septic system repair.
But, if you are like most homeowners, you worry about the cost of replacing your septic system. You may be wondering if (and hoping!) there are other options. And, luckily, there are.
Septic system restoration can fix all of your concerns at a fraction of the cost, time, and disruption for your property. In this article, we are going to walk you through signs of septic system failure, repair strategies that don’t require replacement, and how you can get started. Let’s begin.
Signs of a Failing Septic System
There are many ways to tell that your septic system is having issues. Whether a clogged pipe, full tank, or failing drain field, you need to recognize the signs right away so that you can call a professional septic company to inspect your system. Early recognition allows you to catch and treat the problem right away so that you’re not struggling with more serious complications in the coming weeks.
Here are common signs that your septic system needs attention:
- Slowed or stopped draining
- Gurgling noises from your drains
- Sewage backups
- Foul odors in your drains or yard
- Pooling water in your lawn
- Unusually green grass
If you start to notice any of these concerns, you will want to contact your local septic company right away. They can come to your house, inspect your septic system, locate the problem, and suggest the most dependable repair plan for you.
Septic System Repairs That Don’t Require Replacement
While many homeowners worry that a problem with the septic system will result in replacement, that’s often not the case. There are many less invasive septic system repairs that can restore function without replacing the entire tank and system. Below, learn more about some of the simpler and effective ways to restore your septic system.
Septic Tank Pumping
If you are dealing with a septic issue, one of the most immediate and simplest fixes is septic tank pumping. This process is routine and non-invasive for your yard, making it a great option when your septic tank is backing up into your house, clogged, or not working correctly. Septic pumping will not fix your pipes or drainfield, but it empties your septic tank so that wastes can process correctly through the system.
What it is: Septic tank pumping is the removal of wastes, particularly solid wastes, from your septic tank. This process cleans out the tank so that you don’t face clogs, sewage buildup, and corrosion.
When it’s needed: Septic pumping is typically a routine maintenance procedure for every septic system. Tanks generally need to be pumped every 3-5 years, but it may also be necessary if you start to notice slow draining, foul odors, and sewage backups. Pumping is necessary when there is a buildup of solid wastes in the tank.
Why it works: If you are dealing with a clogged or full septic tank, pumping will remove all of the built up waste in your tank. This allows liquid wastes to filter through more effectively and prevents back flow of waste into your home.
Hydro-Jetting
Hydro-jetting cleans out clogged pipes. Therefore, if the issue is found to be in your sewer lines, this solution is much simpler than replacement. However, this process won’t work for more complex issues, such as broken pipes, compacted soil in the drainfield, and buildups in your septic tank.
What it is: This process uses high-pressure water to clean out your pipes. Hydro-jetting can clear stubborn clogs, including sludge and grease.
When it’s needed: Hydro-jetting is indicated in cases of clogged sewer lines. The pipes need to be in otherwise good condition to withstand the pressure of this procedure. Overall, this service works well to clear blockages.
Why it works: With high pressure water, hydro-jetting clears any buildup on your pipe walls. This creates more space so that sewage is not getting stuck, draining slowly, or flowing backwards into your home.
Septic Drainfield Restoration
If the problem lies in your tank, septic pumping may be best. If there’s an issue inside your pipes, hydro-jetting can be the most effective option. But, if the problem is in your drainfield, you may need septic system restoration. This process is simpler, quicker, and more affordable than complete replacement.
What it is: This method of septic system repair is highly effective in restoring function to your drainfield. Many methods are used to alleviate soil compaction, excessive moisture, tree roots, and clogs.
When it’s needed: Typically, septic system restoration is necessary when your drainfield is blocked, clogged, or otherwise not filtering waste correctly. This can cause sewage backups into your home, gurgling pipes, foul smells, pools in your lawn, and more.
Why it works: This process restores function to your drainfield. It allows the liquid wastes to flow out of your pipes and percolate into the soil for filtration. This prevents any issues with backups, clogs, and more.
Here’s Why Septic System Restoration is Better Than Replacement
In many cases of a failing septic system, the drainfield is the problem. Roots can become entangled, soil can become compacted, and other issues can occur. Luckily, this doesn’t mean that your entire septic field needs to be replaced. Instead, you can opt for septic system restoration. This process will restore the drainfield without causing extensive trauma to your lawn or your wallet. Learn more about the benefits of septic system restoration below.
1. Easier on Your Lawn
For an entire septic replacement, much of your yard will need to be excavated. To restore the drainfield, any digging will be more localized because the tank and pipe systems do not need to be removed. This means less disruption for your lawn.
2. Better for Your Budget
As you probably already know, septic system replacement can be expensive. That’s why it’s always best to make sure you are getting the best septic system repair plan. Restoration can be far more affordable for homeowners, saving you money now and also helping you avoid frequent repair bills if your septic issues are left unchecked.
3. Faster Repairs
Because septic system restoration is a simpler process than replacement, the entire repair should be much faster. This not only means that the septic company will be off of your property sooner, but it also means that you won’t have to deal with your home drainage system staying out of service. You’ll have a renewed system in no time, ready to keep serving you through the years.
Need to Restore Your Drainfield? Call FreeFlow Environmental Now!
Have you been having issues with your septic system? Whether a simple clog or a failing septic system, FreeFlow Environmental is here to help. We offer many non-invasive septic system repairs so that we can find the best solution for you. Our team can help with everything from septic tank pumping and hydro-jetting to complete septic system restoration. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and find the best solution for your property.
