Septic tank smells and is backing up into back yard. Smells bad!?

Question

What needs to be done? Does it need to be drained? How much would it cost to fix it? Thanks

Answer 1

The first step is to have the tank pumped out.

You should also have the drain field inspected.  Drain fields can become clogged due to tree roots, soil compaction, etc.  It's possible the drain field was not large enough to begin with, or perhaps the tank has collapsed for some reason.  Occasionally, flooding will cause a septic system to back up.

Whoever does this work for you, will be in a better position to tell you what steps you need to take next, like re-installing a new drain field, and worst case scenario, replacing the tank and everything.

Once the initial problem is corrected, get in the habit of using Rid-X once a month, to help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and enzymes in the tank.  These will help dissolve and 'digest' the solid wastes that enter the tank, and break them down into a liquid, which flows out thru the drain field.

Good Luck

Answer 2

It needs to be pumped.. Depending on the tank, they are usually 1, 2, 3, 5 or 10 year tanks. Usually they are 1-2 and are supposed to be removed and changed about every 10 years. It could cost anywhere from nothing to a few thousand (for a new one).. because some places will do it for free (government because there is no sewage system) or alot for a replacement.  

Answer 3

Got to get tour tank pumped. 200 to 300 bucks

Answer 4

Yes you will have to have it pumped out. It usually cost between 200 and 300 dollars. After you get it pumped out try using Rid X in the toilet every month and it will save you alot of trouble in the future.

Answer 5

You might have to have it pumped, but it sounds like there is a problem somewhere. If you have wife/girlfriend or daughters, they could be flushing their feminine products down the toilet and that will definitely cause back up problems for the septic.

You will have to dig up where the septic is and remove the lid so someone can pump it for you. They may be able to inspect it for you also. I really hate to tell you, you may be in for a big expense.

gram

Answer 6

Your tank needs pumped out.  Not a pleasant task, one best left to the experts.  For future reference, here are a few sites with general care and maintenance of your tank.

http://www.extension.umn.edu/distributio...

http://septictankinfo.com/Machmeier_Care...

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/septic-ta...