Saturated Leach Field? What To Know

A septic leach field is an essential part of a septic system, and if it is in poor condition, it can lead to expensive and messy problems. A leach field that is not working correctly can cause sewage to back up into the house or overflow on the ground surface, which is not just entirely gross but also a health hazard.

One of the most common issues homeowners face with a septic system is a saturated leach field, but what are the tell-tale signs? What causes this issue, and what is the solution to fix it?

What Are the Telltale Signs of a Saturated Leach Field?

Often, the first indication of a saturated leach field is a slow drain or gurgling sound coming from the toilet or sink. The effluent will not be able to percolate through the soil because the leach field is saturated.

You may notice a foul odor coming from the drain or wet spots on the ground above where the leach field is. Also, if you see grass or plants growing faster or greener than usual in the leach field area, that could be a sign of a problem.

What Causes a Saturated Leach Field?

There are several reasons why a leach field can become saturated. One of the most common is overuse or abuse of water. A typical leach field is designed to handle a certain amount of water, and if the system is repeatedly subjected to more water, it can saturate and fail.

Another issue could be that the septic tank is not being regularly pumped, leading to solid buildup that can clog the leach field pipes. In unusual cases, a tree root intrusion can damage the pipes, leading to saturation.

What's the Solution to Fix This Issue?

If you suspect that your leach field is saturated, the first step is to call a professional septic system company to assess the issue. They will ascertain the cause of the problem and provide solutions to alleviate the issue. 

If the cause is due to overuse or overloading, it may be necessary to reduce your water usage and spread it out over the day or consider a water treatment system. Pumping the septic tank more often can also help. If the cause is due to damaged pipes or tree root intrusion, repairing or replacing the field may be necessary.

How Difficult Is This To Fix?

The level of difficulty in addressing a saturated leach field depends on the problem's severity and cause. Some issues can be tackled by a septic system professional, but others may require professional excavation and repair. Act quickly if you suspect an issue with your septic system since ignoring it can lead to expensive repairs and displacement from your home.

Should You Test the Leach Field?

You can test your leach field to avoid the headache a saturated leach field might cause. One way to check it is to walk around the leach field and look for wet or soggy areas or areas with visible sewage. In some cases, you may notice a rusty or brown stain on your driveway or adjoining sidewalk, and this can sometimes be caused by liquids leaching from the field.

To test overall efficiency, pour water down the drain and see how well it flows. Of course, you can always hire a professional to inspect and perform a regular assessment of the leach field.

What Should You Do Next?

If you suspect any problems with your septic system, call a professional immediately so you can tackle the issue before it becomes worse. Get in touch with us today so we can diagnose what's going on and provide you with further advice.