What to Do If Your Septic Tank System Overflows?

Step One: Minimise your water usage

If you suspect that your septic tank is overflowing, the first thing to do is to minimise your usage until you are able to investigate and rectify the problem. Some water usage is unavoidable, but try to hold off on intensive water usage, such as running the washing machine or dishwasher.

Buying this time could help your system recover to normal levels, or at the very least stop it from getting worse.

Step Two: Try to locate the cause

If you are able to investigate the causes without endangering yourself, the tank or your property, this is a prudent place to start. If you have any apprehension about investigating a leaking septic tank yourself, it is always safer to call in an expert such as Peachy Services.

There are a number of potential reasons why your septic tank might be overflowing, and not all of them are disastrous. If there has been excessively heavy rain recently, the soakaway or drainage field might have been waterlogged, which will impact how effective the septic tank is at dispersing waste. This is especially true for areas with clay-heavy soil or areas with a high water table.

Consider whether your usage has been higher than usual. Extra showers, baths or laundry in a short period of time can overwhelm septic systems, especially if they were near capacity anyway. If it has been a long while since your septic tank was pumped out, it could just be that you needed your septic tank emptied anyway.

It could be that your septic tank is blocked, with something stopping the flow either from the house to the tank or from the tank to the drainage field. This will be harder for you as a layperson to diagnose, but if you have not had excess rain or increased usage, it might be to blame.

Step Three: Check the tank

Again, only complete this step if it is safe to do so and you feel comfortable. Otherwise, consult the services of your local specialist.

If you are able to open the lid, check to see what the level of the tank is. If the tank level is high, then the issue is likely caused by the processes after the tank. If the tank level is low but you have sewage backup in the house, this is likely an issue between your house and the tank.

Regardless of what the level of your tank is, it is important not to start poking around too much. Septic tanks are not just smelly; they are potentially hazardous.

Only trained professionals should attempt any repairs or hands-on investigations into your septic tank.

Step Four: Decide on what to do

If you suspect that the overflow was just a one-off as a result of overuse or heavy rain, and it has since started draining as intended, then you do not necessarily need to take any further action.

That being said, if the level is high, it could be prudent to have your septic tank emptied, helping to prevent future smelly episodes.

If nothing improves, it is time to call in our experienced team.

We offer a full range of septic tank services, including emptying and maintenance. We can pump out your septic tank, check for blockages and even inspect your drainage field for any potential issues.

Should your system be showing signs of age or wear and tear, we can talk you through your options regarding replacement or upgrades.

How to prevent further blockages

Once you have got things back to normal and under control, there are a few simple steps you can take to try and prevent further occurrences.

Only flush toilet paper and human waste down your toilet; items such as wipes, sanitary products or nappies can cause blockages. Most septic tanks will need emptying every 3 to 5 years, although this will vary depending on capacity and usage.

Tree roots are potential issues if they end up in the pipes between your tank and the soakaway/drainage field. Ensure not to park any vehicles or place any heavy items over the drainage field, as this can negatively impact the effectiveness of the drainage.