Septic Tank Repair Kent

What to Do During a Septic Emergency?

When a septic emergency happens, time is critical. Acting quickly can limit damage to your home and reduce the risk of health hazards. Here’s what you should do if your system starts backing up or leaking:

Step 1: Check the Water Level in the Tank

Open the septic tank lid and observe the water level. If it’s lower than the outlet pipe, the problem might be a blockage between your home and the tank. A professional plumbing technician can clear it safely.

Step 2: Evaluate the Tank Contents

If the tank is full above the outlet, it may just need pumping. Septic tank pumping is a relatively quick solution that offers immediate relief while professionals determine the root cause. On average, it costs around $420 and should be done every 3 to 5 years depending on usage.

Step 3: Inspect the Drainfield

If water is pooling in your yard or smells are coming from the drainfield, there may be a failure due to oversaturation or clogging. Don’t pump the tank immediately in this situation, if the drainfield is flooded, pumping can cause the tank to float or shift, damaging connections.

Step 4: Reduce Water Usage

Until help arrives, limit your household water usage. Stop using dishwashers, laundry machines, or showers to prevent adding more stress to the septic system.

What Causes Drainfield Failure?

Your drainfield plays a crucial role in dispersing and treating wastewater. Over time, it can fail due to various factors, some preventable, others part of natural wear. Here are a few common causes:

• Neglected maintenance schedules allow solids to build up and reach the drainfield, clogging it permanently
• Grease and harsh chemicals can disrupt microbial balance in the soil
• Heavy machinery or driving over the field can compact the soil and damage pipes
• Old age, even well-maintained drainfields usually last about 30 years before the microbial activity clogs the soil naturally

When this happens, the only solution is to abandon the failing drainfield and install a new one in a different location on your property. The good news? After several years, you may be able to reuse the original field once the biological buildup breaks down.

Can Septic Systems Be Repaired Without Full Replacement?

Yes, and in many cases, a full septic tank replacement isn’t necessary. If the issue is isolated to a damaged pipe, a faulty baffle, or a clogged outlet, our team can perform targeted septic repairs that restore your system’s function quickly. We also handle aerobic treatment units, which rely on oxygen and bacterial activity. If your system has been inactive, these beneficial bacteria may need to be reintroduced by a professional.

Our Kent-based crew is ready to assess your system, identify what’s going wrong, and recommend the most cost-effective and long-lasting solution, whether it’s a simple patch or full-scale tank repair.

When it comes to reliable, on-time septic tank repair Kent residents can trust, our crew is ready with the tools, training, and care to get the job done right the first time.

How to Keep Your Septic System Running Longer

Avoiding septic tank repair Kent starts with smart habits. Our team encourages all homeowners to adopt a proactive approach to septic system maintenance.

Use Water Wisely

Reducing water waste helps your tank function efficiently. Try not to run multiple water-heavy appliances at the same time. Spread out laundry loads and fix leaks as soon as they appear. Consider installing water-efficient fixtures.

Watch What You Flush

Toilets are not trash cans. Flushing wipes, hygiene products, or grease can cause clogs that travel straight to your septic tank. These materials don’t break down properly and can contribute to sewer backups and drainfield damage.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Bleach, drain cleaners, and antibacterial soaps can harm the natural bacteria that help your system break down waste. Instead, rely on gentler alternatives or arrange for regular professional drain cleaning using safe, septic-friendly methods.

Get Routine Inspections and Cleaning

Regular septic inspections and tank cleaning are your best defense against major issues. We recommend scheduling a service every few years based on tank size, household usage, and the age of the system. Staying ahead with septic system services can prevent emergencies and reduce the likelihood of complete tank replacement.

By following these simple care routines, you can extend the life of your system and avoid future septic tank repair Kent emergencies.