According to Clean Tech Loops, porta-potties save 45 billion gallons of freshwater annually. Relative to our sewer systems though, septic tanks are designed to collect and hold sewage, wastewater, or greywater from residential homes. But these septic tanks need attention from a professional now and then to keep them working at their best. Here are four signs that could indicate your septic tank needs some professional attention.

1. A Persistent Foul Smell

Although septic tanks aren't known for smelling like roses, a foul smell coming from the tank could indicate an issue with your system. The source of this odor might be sewer gases escaping from the tank, which can cause serious health risks if breathed in regularly. If left untreated, this can lead to several other septic tank problems, such as backups and water damage.

Other issues that might lead to smelly wastewater include having too many solids in the tank and excessive grease or oil entering the system. If you notice a persistent and foul odor coming from your tank, talk to a septic service immediately.

2. A Sluggish or Slow-Flowing Drain

If you're noticing slow draining sinks, toilets, or other drains around your home, the problem could be the tank. If wastewater can't flow through the system smoothly and quickly, it can start to back up into various household drains. Over time, this can lead to sewer backups.

3. Frequent Sewer Backups

Sewer backups are some of the worst septic tank problems because they can cause extensive water damage to your home, not to mention health concerns. It's important to have your tank pumped regularly to avoid this from happening. However, if you experience a backup once in a while, it could result from excessive solids or grease accumulating in your tank. In this case, a septic service can clean out the drains and get you back on track.

4. Waste Water in Your Yard

Frequent water in your yard is another sign that something might be wrong with your tank. It could be a sign of an issue with the drain field, which is another important system component for proper wastewater treatment and disposal. Call a septic service immediately if you see standing water or notice soggy patches on your lawn and garden areas.

If you notice any of these signs, you need to call a septic service immediately. These septic tank problems could lead to bigger issues down the road if left untreated. Call us today for prompt, professional septic tank services.