When you can’t connect to the sewer, you have to use a septic tank. Because it’s your own personal system, you are responsible for maintaining it, and the best first step toward maintenance is observation. If your house is on a septic system in Ferndale WA, keep a watchful eye out for the following symptoms of septic tank distress.

Water Pooling in Yard

Pooling water is a tell-tale sign that you need immediate septic service. Essentially, your system is most likely overloaded and can’t process any more liquid, which should always remain underground. If you know the location of your tank and drainage field, you can confirm the problem much more easily.

Bad Smells Outdoors

It won’t take long for you to notice bad smells once you have a rupture. However, if a leakage problem starts small, you might be able to detect intermittent whiffs of sewage. If you do, you should have your septic system inspected immediately to prevent a small problem from blowing up.

A Sudden Green Patch

Septic systems in Ferndale WA separate solid waste from liquid, clean that liquid, and then filter it into a part of your yard. The liquid is high nutrient, so if it escapes at any point on the way to its final destination, you might see your lawn turn greener. Sewage is like manure and contains many nutrients plants love.

Drains Backing Up

If you have a backup in a drain, it might be a simple clog somewhere in the house piping. However, if all of your drains are backing up, the problem could be your septic tank. The problem could also be a clog in the pipe between your house and septic tank but calling in a professional may be the only way to be sure.