According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than one in five households in the country rely on individual onsite or small community septic systems to treat their wastewater. However, like other main home systems, sewage systems are prone to damages requiring repairs. But how do you know your septic system needs repair? Here’s what to look for with a septic tank installer.

Backed Up Sewage

Backed-up sewage is an obvious sign that your septic system needs repair. Indications of backed-up sewage include sludge in your bathtub, drains, and sinks. Sludge is unhygienic and possibly poisonous, implying that you should inform a septic system installer to repair your septic system as soon as possible.

Slow Draining

Another warning sign of a faulty sewage system is slow draining in the bathtub, toilet, sink, and other water outlet points. Slow draining could result from backup sewage or blockage in the outflow pipe. The more outlets that are affected, the more serious the issue. A professional’s inspection and repair will help eliminate the issue and promote normal draining.

Greener Grass

You can also check the grass around your septic tank with your installer. Greener grass around the area than in other areas is an indication that your septic tank has an issue. The issue could be an overflow or cracks letting out sludge. That’s because sludge has more moisture and nutrient levels to make grass flourish.

Bad Odor

A foul odor is another thing you can look for with your septic installer to determine if your septic tank has any issues. The bad odor emanating from your toilet, bathtub, sink, and areas around your septic tank is a telltale that your septic system needs repair. If left unchecked, the bad odor can make staying in your home unbearable. Your septic installer can pinpoint the issue and rectify it.

Standing Puddles

Are there frequent water puddles in your compound, especially around your septic tank, yet it hasn’t rained in a while? If your answer is yes, your septic system is broken. The water puddles can contaminate water sources like wells. They may also make your compound unsuitable for outdoor activities. Have the issue inspected and repaired to remove water pools coming off your septic tank permanently.

Your septic system needs repair if it has at least one of these issues. Contact a septic installer to install, inspect, repair, or maintain your septic system.