A faulty wastewater tank system is one thing you don't want on your residential or commercial property. A damaged wastewater system will not only interfere with your property but also risk your family's health. Being aware of common septic tank problems will help you take immediate action whenever they occur so you can prevent serious consequences.

Read on to learn about seven common septic tank problems.

1. Root Damage

Root damage is common in tanks constructed near shrubs or trees. Roots penetrate the soil and get to the tanks or the attached pipes. The problem can cause your tank to crack and make the stored liquid (wastewater) escape. Also, the problem can make groundwater get into the tank and interfere with its proper performance.

2. Blockage and Clogging

Sometimes, solid waste can fill your wastewater tank system and block it without your knowledge. Also, the waste can block the pipe system between your residential property and the septic system. Blockage in the system will likely cause sewage backups in several fixtures, like toilets and sinks. Also, blockage of your wastewater tank can cause your toilets and drains to run slowly.

To prevent the problem, call an expert to regularly pump the tank.

3. Excess Water

Your wastewater tank can fill up fast and overflow when you overwork it with excessive water. For instance, if your tank isn't large, long showers, daily laundry, and frequent dishwasher water can contribute to the problem.

Excess water can make your wastewater tank system fail to break down various solid wastes effectively. Also, excess water can make the solid waste flow out of the tank through the tubes meant for liquid, which causes blockages.

To prevent this problem, ensure you have a separate pipeline where you can direct all wastewater.

4. Septic Tank Leaks

Several things can cause your septic tank to leak, and one of the causes is the weather. For instance, cold weather can cause your septic tank's cement to crack. Unprofessional septic tank construction and rust damage are also possible causes of the problem. Also, clogs can cause the wastewater system's drain line to crack and leak.

Regular maintenance services from a professional septic tank company can help you avoid the problem.

5. Design and Installation Problems

An improperly designed and installed tank will not serve you well for a long period. Improper design and installation also mean that the tank doesn't comply with the necessary legal requirements, which can cause legal problems.

The first requirement for proper sewage tank design and installation is the availability of suitable soil and enough space. A test for water absorption rate (percolation) is necessary to ensure the ground is in the right state before the tank installation.

6. Vehicle Damage

Since sewage tanks are underground, one can easily drive over them without knowing. The weight and pressure on wastewater tank systems by vehicles interfere with the earth around them and damage the distribution lines.

Ensure you mark where your tank system is to prevent any possible case of vehicle damage.

7. Ground Movement

Even a slight ground movement can add pressure to a septic tank system and result in fractures. Septic tank backs up are a sign of ground movement, as is the need for more frequent pumping. Also, groundwater in the tank during the rainy season can be a sign of ground movement.

These problems can become more common if you fail to schedule regular maintenance for your wastewater tank. An experienced septic tank company will correct such problems and extend your tank's lifespan. Call us today at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC, if you're in Greenville, Anderson, or Spartanburg and need quality septic tank services.