It can be very tempting to delay major home repairs. But if your Chappaqua, NY, property is in need of septic tank repair, procrastination is not the answer. Waiting on septic tank repairs can have catastrophic results, including a slew of potential health risks.
Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Repair
Because the septic system is almost entirely underground, it can be difficult to tell if it needs repairs. Knowing the signs of a failing septic system will help you stay on top of necessary septic tank repairs before problems get out of hand. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can save you money and help prevent serious health hazards.
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One of the most common indicators of a failing septic system is the presence of wet, soggy ground around the septic tank or leaching bed. Slow-draining or backed-up toilets, showers, and sinks can also indicate a problem. And you may notice sewage-like odors coming from drains or toilets, especially after a heavy rainfall. If the problem becomes really serious, you could find a thick, dark liquid backing up into the house or surfacing in the yard.
Diseases Caused by Wastewater
One of the most important reasons to ensure that your septic system is working well? You want to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. While your septic system needs bacteria to function properly, bacteria that is not contained can cause serious illness.
Bacteria found in wastewater has been known to cause infections such as typhoid fever, gastroenteritis, and cholera. These diseases usually affect the stomach and intestines and result in severe flu-like symptoms. Airborne bacteria can also lead to sinus and respiratory infections that cause difficulty breathing. And bacteria that can trigger skin and eye irritations often grows in sewage and sludge from failing septic systems.
Groundwater Pollution
Reducing water pollution is a serious concern in New York state. When a septic system fails, it can release untreated wastewater and sewage into the environment. This contaminated water can then make its way into other water systems. This wastewater is a major cause of pollution for natural water sources as well as drinking water. When water sources become polluted, food sources also risk contamination and can result in illnesses that affect both people and animals.
Additionally, nitrates and phosphates commonly found in untreated wastewater can lead to unhealthy algae growth in lakes and streams. These algae blooms can harm underwater life and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
Harmful Gas Emissions
If you need septic tank repair, it could be possible that your septic system is leaking harmful gasses. A malfunctioning septic tank can result in both methane and sulfide gas emissions.
Related: 5 Important Signs You Need a Septic System Replacement in Croton-on-Hudson, NY
Methane gas is produced when organic material decomposes with the help of bacteria. It is harmful to the environment and is highly flammable. Unfortunately, it is also colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect. But a methane leak can lead to a fire or even explosion, so you should always take septic problems seriously.
Sulfide gas is less dangerous than methane, but it can cause throat, nose, and mouth problems. It has an unpleasant rotten egg-like odor, so it is easier to detect than other gasses. If you notice this smell around your home, call us for an inspection as soon as possible.
