Having Septic Problems From All Those April Showers?

How Excessive Rain Impacts Septic Tanks

Spring has finally arrived, and so have all the spring showers! Many homeowners may be out there singing in the rain, but many others may not be as lucky if they have to deal with rain-related septic problems. Anyone who has dealt with septic problems in the past knows that they’re not pleasant in any way.

Homeowners should beware of septic tank issues that can arise due to excessive spring rain, and they should also take preventative measures to protect their home septic tanks against the dangers of the rainy season. After all, spring is the time to enjoy the sunshine – not to deal with septic systems! 

Groundwater Floods

Groundwater flooding can be a big problem for septic systems, as it limits the proper flow of water, which typically moves everything through the septic system. This can lead to backups into plumbing fixtures. Homeowners can often easily identify related septic issues, as toilets or drains will malfunction, and in some cases, tubs or sinks can even have raw sewage backups.

Fixing septic issues due to groundwater flooding will most likely require the help of a professional. Once they confirm a septic issue (typically by checking relative groundwater levels), they will need to pump the septic system as soon as the ground has dried sufficiently. 

Drain Field Clogs

Clogs in the septic drain field may also occur as a result of excess rain. This typically occurs when rain causes solid waste to be released into the drain field early. This may not only clog the connecting lines, but worse, it may also clog the soil pores. When the latter happens, the entire septic system will malfunction. 

The soil itself removes contaminated material in liquid from the septic tank. It cannot function with untreated, solid waste, nor can it function at all if it has been clogged with that very same waste. Homeowners may see these clogs visibly in the drain field, or they may experience similar in-home plumbing issues like those described above. 

Preventative Measures During the Rainy Season

While homeowners cannot prevent heavy rains during the spring, they can take active measures to mitigate the risk of damage to their septic systems and lower the probability of malfunctions. These include:

• Periodically inspect and pump the septic tank – doing so every 3-5 years with a professional can prevent overflows
• Limit overall water consumption – lowering water use means less strain on the septic system
• Upgrade in-home plumbing fixtures – try using low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads to further decrease water consumption
• Check storm drain placement in the yard – this should not flow near the septic tank/drain field area
• Inspect baffle tees – make sure these are correctly installed, or else there can be a high risk of clogging
• Install risers with lids – this makes future repairs much easier and saves both time and money
• Invest in a backflow preventer – this can stop backflows from affecting in-home plumbing fixtures

By doing just a few of these, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk that they experience severe septic tank issues during the rainy season. 

About Henco Plumbing Services

Henco Plumbing Services of Ridgefield WA is a family-owned and operated company that values 5-star plumbing service at a fair price for all of their customers. Their team of experts guarantees 100% customer satisfaction and provides 1-year warranties on all parts and labor. Give them a call for septic tank services today!

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