Blocked pipes in your waste disposal system is not an issue that anyone wants to have but most certainly should not be ignored. The problems will only be compounded in future if they are, so identifying and fixing them should be high up the priority list.

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Common Septic Tank Problems

How To Spot The Signs Of Blocked Pipes

Blocked pipes in your sewage treatment system can often signal or cause even greater issues. Keeping an eye out for the below warning signs are essential to limiting damage and expense.

Toilets and drains backing up

If you notice that your drains aren’t draining as they should or dark matter coming back up into sinks or toilets, this could be a sign of blocked pipes. These pipes should carry the waste to the septic tank or sewage treatment plant but if they are blocked, they won’t be able to do this, meaning whatever is flushed away will not pass into the tank as it should.

Boggy land

If there is water pooling or the ground is becoming bog-like in areas that could be directly above the pipework, that could be an indication of blocked pipes forcing the waste to escape elsewhere. Human waste acts as an excellent fertiliser too so it could also cause areas of grass or plants to flourish and become lush so look out for that as ne of the more pleasant side effects

Septic tanks or sewage treatment plants need emptying more frequently

If the pipes leading the waste water out of the tank become damaged, the septic tank will fill more quickly. This is simply due to the fact that the waste that should be leaving the tank, is not. An overfilled tank will have its own issues beyond requiring more frequent emptying but this could be one of the first indicators that there is a problem

Lush patches of lawn

Animal waste is an excellent fertiliser and so is human waste. If it is escaping directly, untreated into your ground then it is possible you might see patches of gorgeous verdant vegetation cropping up where the waste is feeding it. It can be a key indicator that your pipes are leaking beneath.

An unpleasant smell

If untreated effluent is escaping, it won’t smell particularly pleasant so sulphuric or other strong whiffs could be an indicator that there is an issue underground. A smell won’t always occur, and a smell won’t always indicate a problem but it would be worth some investigation if one appears from seemingly nowhere.

What can cause pipes to become blocked?

Ground subsidence

Shifting lands could mean that the pipes open up at joints or even crack, allowing soil to enter them which could cause blockages

Flushing the wrong materials

Baby wipes, a sock, kitchen towel; there are many products which do not belong down your drains and flushing them can result in blocked pipes very easily.

Even things such as kitchen fats or paints can coat the inside of the pipes and result in them closing up

A full septic tank

If your septic tank or sewage treatment plant has not been emptied as it should, the waste will start backfilling the pipes causing them to block up and prevent more waste from passing through them

What to do if you notice blocked pipes in your sewage treatment system?

Blocked sewage treatment pipes can have nasty consequences, causing damage to your property septic tank and the environment. Getting them checked out by an expert is vital to avoid further damage and expense. As soon as you notice blocked pipes or any issue with your drainage system contact the experts at Proseptic.

Benefits of Proseptic

No obligation sewage treatment advice

  • If you are have any questions about soakaway problems or are unsure if your existing septic system meets the latest regulations, please get in touch. Our friendly, expert team are always happy to share our expertise to help you make the right decisions.

Services by expert engineers

  • Only highly experienced engineers carry out sewage treatment services. We pride ourselves on our customer service which is why most of our work actually comes from client referrals.

What you can expect from Proseptic

  • Our customers are more than a sales opportunity. We want your sewage treatment system to work for you. Therefore, we deliver all drainage services with longevity, quality and efficiency with minimal hassle.
  • We endeavour to explain all sewage treatment options to you. Therefore, you can feel confident and make an informed decision on any soakaway problems armed with all the information available.