The septic system is one of those things you never think about until something goes wrong. When toilets back up, or the yard starts to smell swampy, you realise that you don’t know the first thing about blocked septic system repairs.
A malfunctioning system can cause serious health hazards and property damage, so we have created this guide to help Dubbo homeowners and businesses identify blockages early and understand what a septic tank blockage treatment entails.
What are the Signs of a Septic Tank Blockage?
Ignoring the early signs of septic failure only leads to more complex and expensive repairs later on. If you notice any of these warning signs, your system needs a septic tank blockage treatment.
- Drains, sinks, or toilets are very slow to empty and flush.
- Bad smells are coming from your drains or roof pipes.
- You hear bubbling or gurgling sounds when water moves through the pipes.
- Standing water in your yard or unusually lush, green grass near the septic tank can mean that wastewater is rising to the surface.
What Should I Do if My Septic Tank is Blocked?
When you’ve noticed the warning signs that your system needs attention, these simple actions can help clear minor clogs and buy you time to call a professional for a full inspection and blocked septic system repair.
- Stop Using Water: Don’t do laundry, run the dishwasher or take long showers. This takes the pressure off your system and stops wastewater from flooding the yard.
- Check for Clogs: If only one toilet or sink is slow to drain, it’s likely a simple clog in the house system, not a major septic issue. If many drains are slow, the main septic line could be blocked.
- Quick Fixes: If the clog is in one sink or toilet, use a plunger to clear the block, or a drain snake to remove hair and debris. If it’s a grease blockage in the kitchen sink, pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar down the drain.
- Call a Local Plumber: If multiple drains are clogged and these steps have not fixed the problem, call Matt Diamond Plumbing for a blocked septic system repair.
Pro Tip: Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners. They kill the helpful bacteria your tank needs, which can lead to major damage.
What Locals Should Know About Septic Tank Repair
With over 2 decades of plumbing experience, we know the first questions home and business owners in Dubbo ask when dealing with a septic system failure. Here are the common questions we hear about septic systems.
Q: Can septic systems be repaired, or do I need a total replacement?
A: The system can usually be repaired, especially if we catch the problem early. Things like a blocked pipe or a damaged wall inside the tank are easy fixes. You only need a full replacement if the drain field (where the water soaks into the ground) is completely ruined or if the tank is cracked and collapsing. A professional inspection will tell you what is needed.
Q: What is the cost of servicing septic systems?
A: Regular maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs and has a fixed cost. The price of your septic system maintenance will depend on your tank size, location and specific needs. Talk to our team about your system and get your free maintenance quote today.