How to Tell If Your Septic Tank Is Full
Slow drains throughout the house, gurgling pipes, sewage odors and lush or soggy grass over the tank are the most common signs. The only sure answer is having the sludge level measured.
The Six Most Common Signs
- Several drains slow at the same time
- Gurgling in toilets or sinks
- Sewage smell indoors or in the yard
- Water pooling near the tank or field
- Extra green grass over the system
- Backups in the lowest drains or a basement
Full vs Clogged
One slow sink is usually a pipe clog. Many slow fixtures at once points to the tank or drain field. Telling the two apart saves time and money.
What to Do Right Away
Cut water use: hold off on laundry, long showers and the dishwasher. Do not pour chemicals or drain cleaners into the system. Call for service before a backup reaches the house.
Prevent the Next One
Track your pump-out dates and stick to a schedule based on household size and tank size.
Ready for help? We can get your tank pumped anywhere in the Tyler area.
Common Questions
Can a full tank cause a backup in the house?
Yes. Once the tank cannot drain, wastewater can back up into the lowest fixtures.
Does heavy rain make it seem full?
It can. A saturated drain field slows drainage and mimics a full tank.
Will the alarm tell me?
Aerobic and pump systems have alarms for high water. Conventional tanks usually do not.