What might indicate a problem with a septic system?

Pooling water in the drainage field and strong odors in the area are both significant indicators of potential issues with a septic system.

Pooling water in the drainage field suggests that the system is not functioning as it should, possibly due to a clog or a saturation of the soil preventing proper absorption of treated effluent. This can lead to the waste being retained instead of being effectively filtered back into the ground, resulting in further complications and potential contamination of the surrounding area.

Strong odors in the vicinity often indicate that sewage or effluent is seeping into places it shouldn’t, either because the tank is full, there is a blockage, or the system is otherwise compromised. These odors can be a sign of septic failure, posing not only a nuisance but also health risks to those nearby.

Together, these two symptoms point to significant malfunctions within the septic system that require immediate attention to prevent further damage or environmental hazards. The healthy growth of plants around the tank, while not immediately indicative of issues, can be misleading as certain types of vegetation might thrive on nutrients from a failing system.