Signs You Need a New Septic System

Is It Time for a New Septic System? Key Signs to Watch For.

Since 2012, 3D Plumbing - Electric - Heating & Air has been a trusted name in Park City, KS, and the surrounding areas, providing reliable and professional services to our valued customers. One essential aspect of home maintenance that often gets overlooked is the septic system. A failing septic system can lead to significant problems, from unpleasant odors to costly repairs. In this blog, we'll explore the crucial signs that indicate it might be time to replace your septic system, helping you avoid potential headaches and ensuring your home runs smoothly.

Here are the top 14 signs you need a new septic system.

1. Foul Odor

When septic systems begin to fail, there is often an obvious sewage-like odor that is evident both inside and outside the home. This foul odor may occur before there are any visible signs that something is amiss. You may notice a rotten egg or sulfur smell that may indicate that the septic tank needs to be pumped. This type of smell could also signify that raw sewage has escaped the septic tank or that a drain is blocked, causing sewage to back up. If you think you need a pumping or a whole new system, give the experts at 3D a call anytime – (316)744-2326.

2. Lush, Green Grass

While having vibrant, healthy grass may sound like a good thing, it could also be a telltale sign that there is something wrong with your septic system. If the grass is only very green around the septic tank, it could mean that the system is overflowing with excess water into your yard or drain field. The wastewater essentially acts as a fertilizer, causing your grass to grow faster and healthier.

3. Slow Drains

Septic systems are made up of a series of pipes and other components that must be in good working order to ensure that waste flows smoothly from inside to outside the house. If pipes in your home are constantly backing up, it could be a sign that your system is clogged and in need of repair or replacement. Ignoring a slow drain could lead to more serious problems later on, so it’s important to bring in one of the professionals from 3D to take a look. Give us a call at (316)744-2326 or contact us here - https://ks3dpe.com/contact-us/

4. Frequent Repairs

Do you frequently have to have your septic system serviced or repaired? These repairs may become very expensive over time, signaling that your system may be reaching the end of its life. When inspected, a professional may see several signs of a failing septic system, such as solid accumulation in the tank, which indicates that solids are not being properly broken down. The tank may also constantly overflow, leading to unexpected messes and foul odors.

5. Standing Water

Pools or puddles in your yard can be a sign that your septic system should be replaced. When there is standing water in the yard or leach field, it may signal that the septic system is not disposing of wastewater properly. Instead of the water exiting the property the correct way, it’s dumping the excess wastewater into the yard, causing the leach field to appear soggy or flooded. If you encounter standing water in your yard, don’t hesitate to reach out at (316)744-2326, and we’ll get a technician out ASAP.

6. Contaminated Well Water

If you have potable water sources such as a well on the property, a basic septic system inspection will generally include water quality testing. The presence of various contaminants in the water, such as bacteria or nitrates, could show that the septic system is experiencing a leak that needs to be immediately resolved to reduce any health or environmental impacts. A failed water test is a major problem and a direct sign that you need a new septic tank installation.

7. Gurgling Sounds

Gurgling or bubbling sounds when you use a plumbing appliance, such as a toilet, bathtub, or washing machine, can indicate an internal problem in the septic system. This type of noise is common when there is a blockage in the pipes, preventing the smooth flow of wastewater. Failure to have the problem inspected and resolved could lead to a backup. If you’re hearing unusual noises in your house, give us a call at (316)744-2326, and we’ll help properly diagnose the issue.

8. Algae Blooms in Nearby Water

While the presence of algae in low to moderate amounts in certain lakes and rivers is usually not a cause for concern, a sudden surge of excessive algae blooms in nearby water sources could be caused by your failing septic system. These blooms are caused by phosphorous or nitrogen contamination, leading to abnormal algae growth. However, this system can often be difficult to diagnose without assistance from a professional.

9. Increased Household Size

Although adding people to your household does not mean you need your septic tank or system replaced, it is a reason to start considering an upgrade. The more people that live in a home, the more wear and tear that is put on the septic system. It is essential to have a septic system installed that will accommodate all occupants and plumbing appliances. This will allow residents to continue using these appliances without constant concerns about breakdowns or repairs.

10. Toilet Flushing Problems

Toilet flushing issues are a common sign of a problem within the pipes or other components of the septic system. After flushing the toilet, it’s normal to hear a low hissing sound as the toilet tank refills. However, other sounds like bubbling or gurgling could signal a clogged pipe. You may also notice other serious signs of a problem, such as a slow-flushing toilet or a shower or bathtub in the home that takes much longer to drain than normal. If you encounter issues, we’d love to help you out! Give us a call anytime at (316)744-2326.

11. Defective Septic Tank Seal

Septic systems contain seals that prevent wastewater, byproducts, and toxic gases from escaping. Over time, these seals can begin to deteriorate from natural wear or tear or physical damage to the system. Regular septic tank inspections will usually include an examination of the seal. However, if you haven’t had your system inspected in a long time, the seal could have cracked, allowing liquids to seep out of the system.

12. Old or Outdated System

No septic system lasts forever and will eventually need to be replaced with an upgraded model. This is especially true if you recently purchased a home and don’t know how old the existing system is or whether it’s working properly. The components in these systems degrade over time and, without replacement, can contaminate your groundwater and damage your property. If your system has reached its expected lifespan, consider replacing it before it begins causing problems. The professionals at 3D Plumbing – Electric – Heating & Air have been the trusted experts since 2012 and would love to help you with a new system. Call (316)744-2326 anytime or contact us here - https://ks3dpe.com/contact-us/

13. Incorrect Septic Tank

While not common, it is possible for a home to have the incorrect septic system installed. Septic tanks are chosen for a particular home based on a variety of factors, such as the size of the home, the number of residents, and local codes. Most systems are also gravity-fed, meaning they must be installed at the appropriate soil depth to effectively move waste. If the incorrect tank is installed or installed improperly, consider a new septic system.

14. Recommendation from a Pro

If you hire a professional to inspect your septic system and they recommend a replacement, it’s probably time for a new septic system. Septic systems should be inspected at least every three years and pumped at least every five years. With proper care, a septic system can last between 15 and 20 years without encountering any major issues. Some types, such as concrete septic tanks, have an average lifespan of 40 years or more. A professional can provide guidance on when to make this upgrade. If you’ve been told you need a new system and you’d like a second opinion, please give us a call anytime at (316)744-2326.

In this blog, 3D Plumbing - Electric - Heating & Air, a trusted provider in Park City, KS since 2012, highlights the essential signs indicating that it might be time to replace your septic system. We cover key warning signs such as persistent foul odors, slow drains, unusually green or soggy patches in your yard, and frequent backups.

Understanding these signs can help you address potential issues early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring your home's plumbing system remains in top condition. With our expert insights, you can stay informed and keep your septic system functioning efficiently. We’re always here to help anytime, give us a call at (316)744-2326.

3D Plumbing, Electric Heating & Air is a family-owned and operated business serving the Wichita area since 2012. With trained and experienced plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, you can trust our licensed and qualified teams to deliver the home and business services you need.

Located just off I-135 just minutes north of Wichita, we have the team and the equipment to deliver quality service, American-made products, quickly and done right the first time.

Don’t let the fear of costs on a big project delay you from the work you need, get a free quote from the team relied upon to deliver the best prices around.

There’s good reason why customers give raving 5-star reviews to our Wichita plumbers, electricians and HVAC technicians at 3D!

 

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