My septic tank keeps backing up

Question

what can i do to fix this? and how do i know when i have to call a professional and how much do they usually cost to replace or fix?

Answer 1

You have to have it pumped out once in awhile, and watch what to put down it.  I think a professional.  

Answer 2

First try should be to have someone pump out your tank. You could just have too much solids in the tank for it to work properly. This would be the most common problem that would cause a back-up. Watch what you flush down the toilets (femine products are a notorius killer) and watch what laundry detergent you use. Might try adding Ridex once a month to replenish the bugs.

Answer 3

change your diet

Answer 4

move into an apt., houses are overrated

Answer 5

Does your septic back up from tank to the house ? or does it back up from the laterals to the house ?  It does make a huge difference .if you take the lid off of the tank and it comes oozing out than it is clogged on the outlet side of the tank . depending on the age of the home and the septic system  the outlet pipe could be cast iron which will "grow " shut over a period of years and the effluent cannot flow out to the leach field . start with that and than let us know what you find we can help you more if you need , good luck  

Answer 6

Chances are that you have a conventional gravity fed system.  The system has three main parts that must be kept clear so that the system can function properly. The first is the main line which runs from the house to the septic tank and transports the sewage to the tank.  Part two the  tank separates the solids from the liquids and the solids remain in the tank for periodic removal ever 3 to 5 years. The liquids or septic effluent, then flows into the absorption field (field lines, leach field, etc.) and the effluent is absorbed into the soil.

If part 1 (the main line) fails, it may be clogged due to grease or laundry detergent among other things.  One solution is to prevent the grease and laundry detergent from going down the system and have a septic company hydro jet the main line to clear it of obstructions.

If part 2. (the septic tank) fails, it is most likely either a clog in the baffle tees, it needs pumping because it is full of solids, or the liquids are not able to get out to the absorption field.

If part 3. (the absorption field) fails, it is most likely due to excessive bio-matt growth.  The bio-matt takes place when the anaerobic (with-out air) effluent makes contact with the aerobic (with air) soil.  The reaction that takes place forms the bio-matt.  The bio-matt can expand to the point where it comes to surface over the absorption field in the form of smelly, dark puddles. The bio-matt problem can be prevented by installing an aerobic treatment unit.

Cost?  Depends on your situation.  I would get the tank pumped and an estimate from a reputable company.  There are some disreputable both small and large who will take your money quickly so please check references and company history before letting just any company open your tank.  Feel free to contact me with any questions. [e-mail]