When a Septic Tank Emergency Occurs in Your Winston-Salem Home, Do You Know What to Do?

Emergencies are unavoidable and Septic Tanks are no exception.  When is yours going to fail?

Is there anything worse than a malfunctioning septic tank?  Not Much!  Septic systems are man-made and subsequently, have a limited lifespan.  It is not a question of if but when will your septic tank fail.  Winston-Salem, NC residents, and business owners can be sure help is only a phone call away, Brantley Septic.   (252) 478-3721 

Since your septic tank is destined for failure, it is smart and prudent to plan for a septic emergency before it happens.  Preparation and planning will allow you to take quick decisive action.  Emergency Septic Tank Service Winston-Salem.

When the time arrives, you have a septic tank emergency, it is extremely important you do not panic no matter how extreme the situation. You must remember the dangers.  A malfunctioning septic system can potentially expose you, your family, and your neighbors to viruses and pathogens from the sewage.  Stay Calm, take a deep breath, pick up the phone, and call Brantley Septic.  (252) 478-3721 

Winston-Salem Emergency Septic Tank Emergency

Have a Strategic Plan and Know the Warning Signs of a Septic Tank Emergency

Preparation starts with paying attention to your Winston-Salem home’s septic system.  It will give you some warning as to when your septic system might fail, allowing for rapid action and perhaps avoid an emergency.   You will want to keep your eyes, ears, and nose open for:

  • Slow draining fixtures
  • Gurgling in the plumbing system
  • Foul odors emanating from the drain field area, particularly after rain or heavy water use
  • Water backing up into the basement
  • Backups in the septic tank or plumbing
  • Standing water in the drain field

Septic Tank Emergency Prevention Steps, for Winston-Salem homeowners and business owners.

To keep your system from failing quicker than normal, it is important that you not use more water than necessary.  Too much water is one of the main reasons septic tanks and systems fail.  Additionally, avoid the use of additives because they will do more harm than good.

Avoid the temptation to pave over, drive over, or park on top of your septic system.

Do not direct excess rainwater to the spot where your septic tank is buried. Septic tank water navigates through laterals before draining through the soil. If the ground is already wet, there is a chance that the water will start to back up either into your system or your ground pool.  This can be solved by ensuring yard drainage and downspouts are redirected to other locations on your lawn.

The installation of inspection ports and risers is recommended. Why? Septic systems are buried, which makes it hard to inspect for problems.  Inspection ports are small and easy to install.

What to Do When a Septic Tank Emergency Winston-Salem Occurs.

If you find sewage in your Winston-Salem home, lift the lid of the septic tank, and take a look at the water level or you can contact Brantley Septic to check the water level for you. It is important to determine if there is a clog as quickly as possible. If there is an excess water level, which is higher than the outlet, then the problem is either the tank or something beyond it.  Have your tank pumped so that you will have a bit of extra time to decide what to do next. Not only that but having your tank pumped will give the technician a chance to see whether the issue can be easily repaired.

If the drain field is filled with water, you should put off getting your tank pumped since emptying the tank can cause it to float, which can result in broken pipes. If you notice that the drain field is soggy or has a foul odor, make sure you keep people away from the area since there is a biohazard potential. Consider installing a fence if you have any pets or children to make sure that they stay away from the area. You will also want to have your tank pumped and use as little water as you can to help weaken the odor.

When to Repair or Replace?

Should your Winston-Salem septic system ever fail, you will have the option of either replacing it or repairing it. Standing water or sewage odor is most likely the result of a broken pipe, which can easily be replaced. With advanced treatment systems, it may require a part replacement or adjustment. If it is your drain field that has completely failed, then chances are good that you will need a system replacement. However, there is still a possibility you might be able to use the septic tank again, which will save you money.

When it comes to septic tanks, do not hesitate to contact the professionals at Brantley Septic.  It is better to be safe than sorry and cheaper to fix now than when the emergency occurs.  Call the Winston-Salem septic tank emergency team at (252) 478-3721!

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