3 Main Causes of Septic Backups

If your home has a septic system, you know that it typically manages waste, much like a municipal waste system might. The downside to a septic system is that its maintenance is your responsibility, not the city’s. That means maintaining your septic regularly but fixing issues when/if they occur. One of the possible issues that you may encounter is a septic backup.

Septic backups are inconvenient, and they stink (literally) to handle. A septic backup occurs when wastewater cycles back through your plumbing system and begins regurgitating into your sinks, bathtubs, and showers. It can be incredibly gross but also dangerous. Bacteria, mold, and other viruses may be present in the wastewater. There can be many underlying causes relating to why your septic system has backed up. Today Lion Home Septic will explore 3 of the most common reasons.

Reason 1 – Chemical Exposure

We’ve discussed the use of chemicals in your septic system before. You can read the previous blog here. As a recap, harsh chemicals can have a serious impact on the health of your septic tank. Your septic tank has specific organic bacteria that form to break down the waste in your septic tank. This bacteria is specific to your septic and occurs naturally. When you add harsh chemicals to the mix, the natural balance is disrupted, and these bacteria die. With fewer bacteria left, waste takes much longer to break down. This can eventually lead to a backup in your system.

We highly recommend that you stop using all harsh chemicals in your home. This means nothing in the sink or the toilet when it’s clogged! Natural alternatives are much better not just for your septic but also for your health. We also suggest that you don’t add any chemicals directly to your tank. Adding chemicals advertised to “help your system” often just creates more damage.

Reason 2 – Using Your Drainfield Wrong

Although it may be easily forgotten, your drain field is an essential part of your septic system. Your drain field is the last place that wastewater travels to on its journey through your septic system. The wastewater will be distributed back into the ground once it reaches the drain field. Improper use of your drain field can lead to a backup. Below is a list of some ways your drain field should NOT be used.

  • As a parking area
  • To house livestock
  • To grow a garden or plant large-rooted plants
  • To house a pool or hot tub
  • As a place for a kids playground

All of the above misuses can affect the density of the soil and the pipes below. These things can cause septic backups.

Reason 3 – You Don’t Pump Your Tank

This reason is one that we cannot stress enough. You MUST get your septic tank pumped regularly! Lion Home Service experts recommend that you get it pumped every 2-3 years. However, you may have to do it more frequently if you have lots of guests or you know that it got a lot of use over a certain period of time. Once your septic tank becomes too full you can experience backups. You may start experiencing these backups during times of heavy use. But once it starts even the slightest “overuse” will cause a backup. Be proactive and get your septic tank pumped as is recommended above. If you’re unsure of the last time that you had your septic tank pumped then please call Lion Home Septic. Our experts would be happy to come out and do an assessment to let you know when you’re due for a pump-out.

We hope that this brief overview of septic backups was helpful. We know that having a better understanding of what can cause an issue helps you to resolve it! As always we want to remind everyone that we are available for your septic needs. Our team of experts are available to help you with any questions or concerns you may have. We also offer 24/7 emergency service should need it in case of a septic backup. Just call (970) 829-8222!

Also, visit Lion Home Septic to read our reviews or learn more about our service area!

Emergency Services Available 24/7
Schedule Online (Conversion Form)
Useful Tips for Homeowners
Categories: Septic
Preparing Your Septic for Fall in Colorado If you live in Northern Colorado, you know that Fall can be one of the most beautiful seasons we experience here. It can also be one of the most brutal for your septic system because … Read More
winter prep blog banner
Preparing Your Septic and Plumbing Systems for a Stress-Free Season As we approach the middle of the fall season, it’s essential not to overlook the maintenance of your septic and plumbing systems. Lion Home Service is here to remind you of the importance of getting … Read More
Holiday Bliss Starts with a Pump: 4 Reasons to Prioritize Septic Tank Maintenance
Holiday Bliss Starts with a Pump: 4 Reasons to Prioritize Septic Tank Maintenance As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves getting into the festive spirit, planning gatherings with family and friends, and decorating our homes. Amidst all the excitement, it’s easy to overlook the less glamorous aspects … Read More
lush green grass around septic cover
How Do I Know If My Septic Tank Needs To Be Replaced? Septic systems are vital for managing household wastewater in areas without access to centralized sewer systems. While septic tanks are designed to be durable, they have a limited lifespan and may eventually require replacement. Recognizing … Read More
someone opening septic
Decoding Septic Tanks: How to Determine if You Have One and Understanding the Different Types Septic tanks are an essential component of many residential properties, responsible for the efficient treatment and disposal of wastewater. However, not all homeowners are aware of whether their property is equipped with a septic system … Read More
Signs Your Septic System Needs To Be Pumped Regular maintenance and timely pumping are vital to ensure your septic system functions correctly. But do you know the signs that indicate your septic system needs to be pumped? Neglecting septic issues can lead to … Read More