Rain can be relaxing to watch or listen to, depending on how heavy it is. In the middle of the rainy season, during a major downpour, have you ever wondered if the sudden influx of water in your yard could flood your septic tank? Read on to learn more about how rainfall affects septic systems.
Can My Septic System Flood?
Against your best intentions, a lot of rain or any other source of water can flood your septic system. Your septic tank is made to let wastewater out into the soil around it through a system of buried pipes, but the system can’t stop water already in the soil from flowing into those same pipes. When this happens, the water has nowhere to go but back into your septic tank.
The biggest danger comes when your septic tank is already mostly full, and the water backs up into your home. To avoid this, it is important to make sure your septic tank gets pumped before the rainy season. Even if you know your septic system usually lasts a few years between pumps, you should schedule a service time in the drier times of the year.
How to Prevent Septic System Flooding
During times of heavy rain, try to avoid taking showers or other activities that send a lot of water down your drains. Remind your family members that rainfall means you should use water sparingly. Be in the know about what can and can’t be flushed when you own a septic system so non-biodegradable objects don’t take up extra tank space. Let grass and other natural plants grow on the soil over your septic tank and drain field to prevent erosion and absorb more water.
What Should I Do if my Septic System Floods?
If you believe your septic tank has flooded, call a septic pumping company right away. During a big storm, you won’t be the only one calling for help, so don’t be the last one to schedule your service! You can contact Maui Pumping Services 24 hours a day by calling (808) 871-7867.
