Why is My Septic Tank Full of Water?

It can be quite alarming to lift your tank lid and see your septic tank over flowing or almost full. A septic tank should be 80% full, or near there with normal function. But, it should not look watery or liquid on the top. A healthy septic system should have a layer of scum along the top, that looks like a healthy soil or dirt and may even have organic material growing in it.

If you open your tank lid and it is full of water, or you notice leeching from your system around the tank, you should call a professional immediately as these are signs of a failing system and or a leaking tank. System failures occur when the sewage that is draining from the tank is no longer able to flow to the dispersal or septic field. This can happen due to a number of reasons such as:

• Saturated soils in the dispersal area

• Clogged lateral pipes

• Broken pipe and effluent is unable to reach dispersal field

What Happens Next?

When a professional comes to inspect the system, the first thing that should happen is a tank pump out. This ensures there are no further health hazards from wastewater leeching out of the tank and in the surrounding areas. Next, the system should be visually and inspected with a camera to see where the issue is. If the dispersal field is older, or, has poor soils, you may need a new septic field to ensure the effluent can be properly treated by vertical separation in the soil and dispersing correctly. If the dispersal field is clogged, a hydro flush can help the system by clearing the clogged dispersal field lines by using a high pressure water stream. If there is a broken pipe, a professional will be able to locate, uncover and repair as necessary to ensure your system is functional for you and your family.

Check out our Inspection page or give us a call to book a septic service inspection to ensure your system is functioning properly.