From wastewater tanks to drain lines, many commercial and residential property owners have the components of their septic systems installed underground. According to the trenching contractors at Wilson & Roy Construction in Nancy, KY, because equipment is buried below the Earth’s surface, some people fail to detect minor problems until they become major issues. So you are better prepared to identify mishaps when they happen, Pulaski County's premier trenching contractors have shed light on three common issues below. 

What 3 Problems Are Septic Systems Prone to the Most?

1. Overflows

The septic tank is designed to separate solids and liquids from property waste before sending the effluent through distribution tubes into the drain field for further treatment. If you wash multiple loads of laundry a day or take extra-long showers, it could cause too much wastewater to flow into the tank at a time. When this happens, solids don’t have enough time to break down properly before being flushed out of the container. The debris could get stuck in the tubes and clog the channels. Using energy-efficient plumbing appliances and cutting down on daily water consumption should reduce the likelihood of the tank overflowing. 

2. Dislodged Dip Pipes

Many septic tank models come equipped with dip pipes, which ensure certain types of waste enter the outlet pipe. During a routine pumping, the device can become dislodged and sink to the bottom of the container. Without the dip pipe to filter waste, the wrong materials could enter the outlet pipe and clog the system. It’s best to schedule routine equipment inspections to remedy this problem, as professionals have the tools and training to locate the damaged equipment and provide the necessary repairs. 

3. Invasive Tree Roots

Although trees and shrubs can add beauty to your property and boost privacy, the underground root system can wreak havoc on septic equipment. Roots continue to grow in nutrient-rich soil, which means the septic tank and sewer lines could get in the way. Invasive roots can crack and cause additional damage to the septic tank and drain lines, which could cause sewage to surface in your yard. Installing septic equipment a safe distance from trees and shrubs should leave the fixtures out of the root path. 

If your current septic equipment is in need of replacement, reach out to the trenching contractors at Wilson & Roy Construction for septic tank installation and additional solutions to prevent the problems above. To schedule a service appointment in Nancy or the surrounding communities, call (606) 636-6457. A team member is available to answer questions. Visit the trenching contractors online to see pictures of their septic equipment and underground utility installations.