A newly bought home is often accompanied by hidden faults and failures that require repair or replacement. You may find, for example, that your house in Pleasantville, NY, needs a septic system replacement soon after you’ve settled in. Here are the tell-tale signs of septic tank failure to look out for once you’ve discovered that your new home comes equipped with an old system. Read on to discover what steps to take next.

Look for Backed-up Pipes

Do your pipes ever gurgle or send raw sewage back into your toilet? This is a sign that they are clogged. Another hint of something not working is a terrible odor. Frequent backups in your sewage system is a sign that it may require replacement.

Related: Septic Tank Repair: How to Know If Your Septic Tank Needs Emptying in Armonk, NY

Watch Out for Puddles

If you find puddles in your yard without a drop of rain in sight, consider septic tank failure as the culprit. These puddles indicate that the septic system is no longer able to perform its essential function: disposing of waste water. Survey the area where your tank is located and, if you find unexplained puddles, consider whether it’s time for a septic system replacement.

Worry About a Greener Grass Patch

While you’re out there surveying the drain field area for puddles, take note of the grass. Is that area of grass greener than the rest of your property? This may sound like a good thing, but it could indicate that the underlying septic system is releasing far more moisture into the soil than it should. Any sewage that escapes the drain field may be acting as fertilizer.

Have the Well Water Checked

Once a septic system fails, it may release bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants into the well water. This is extremely hazardous and indicates that the system should be replaced as soon as possible. If you suspect your new home comes with an old tank, have a professional test the water to ensure that it isn’t contaminated.

Related: The Importance of Effluent Filters in Septic System Installation

Arrange an Inspection

If you notice any of the above signs, contact a professional to arrange an inspection of your septic system. They will be able to determine whether the system can be repaired or whether it should be replaced altogether. They will also be able to pump your tank, alleviating the problem while they conduct their assessment. The problem may have arisen from the drainage field, in which case the area will need to be excavated so that the system can be exposed and replaced. Issues relating to the drainage field include anything from a burst pipe to the overwhelming build-up of sludge.

Septic Tank Replacement

When the time comes to replace your septic tank, you’ll want to hire experts who can work with you and advise you on what’s best for your home. There are various types of tanks available on the market, but rest assured that Santucci Construction Corp. will be able to guide you in selecting the right one for your needs. Concrete tanks are considered the most durable and most common, while there’s also fiberglass tanks (a lightweight alternative), steel, and plastic.