Septic Maintenance During Flooding - Bob's Septic Tank
bobgallon October 8, 2018 Emergency Pumping Septic Maintenance Septic Tank 0
Septic Maintenance During Flooding and Excess Rain
There are certain times of the year that can be very soggy for Iowa residents. A well maintained septic system and normal rain conditions shouldn’t give a homeowner any issues. On the other hand, a full tank and lots of external groundwater will be slow to drain and potentially cause sewage backup. Keep reading to learn how to proper septic maintenance during flooding and times of excessive rain.
Do not dig into the tank or drainfield area while the soil is still wet or flooded. Try to avoid any work on or around the disposal field with heavy machinery while the soil is still wet. These activities will ruin the soil conductivity.
Should I pump my tank during flooded or saturated drainfield conditions?
We do not recommend pumping your tank during flooded or saturated drainfield conditions. Worst case scenario, an empty septic tank will rise and damage inlet and outlet pipes. If Mother Nature is flooding your yard with water, sit tight and dramatically reduce water use in your house.
How Does a Flood Affect Your Septic System?
Although most septic tanks are not damaged by flooding since they are below ground and completely covered, there are other things to consider. Floodwaters from the house that are passed through or pumped through the septic tank will cause higher flows through the system. This may cause solids to transfer from the septic tank to the drainfield and will cause clogging.
Flooding of the septic tank will have lifted the floating crust of fats and grease in the septic tank. Some of this scum may have floated and/or partially plugged the outlet tee. If the septic system backs up into the house check the tank first for outlet blockage
If sewage has backed up into the basement, clean the area and disinfect the floor. Use a chlorine solution of a half cup of chlorine bleach to each gallon of water to disinfect the area thoroughly. Clean up any floodwater in the house without dumping it into the sink or toilet and allow enough time for the water to recede.
Things to remember once floodwaters have receded:
Only trained specialists should clean or repair septic tanks because tanks may contain dangerous gases.
Do not drink well water until it is tested. Contact your local health department.
Saturated soil is especially susceptible to compaction, which can reduce the soil absorption field’s ability to treat wastewater and lead to system failure.
Preparing Your Septic System for Future Floods
Prevent silt from entering septic systems that have pump chambers. When the pump chambers are flooded, silt has a tendency to settle in the chambers and will clog the drainfield if it is not removed. If the soil absorption field is clogged with silt, a new system may have to be installed.
Have your septic tank professionally inspected and serviced if you suspect damage. Signs of damage include settling or an inability to accept water.
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