External Elements That Can Impact The Drain Field Of Your Septic System

Drain fields process the treated wastewater in your septic tank, and are the last part of its process. Being outdoors and exposed to different elements can sometimes be the cause of damage or malfunction. These external factors are hard to prevent and can lead to costly septic tank repairs in Plano, TX. The root of the problem lies outside the tank itself.

Outdoor And External Causes Of Drain Field Damage

Environmental conditions, landscaping decisions, and weather all contribute to damage and system failure. Heavy equipment or frequent vehicle traffic over the drain field compresses the soil. This makes it difficult to percolate and treat wastewater properly. In some cases, the damage is so severe, it requires a full septic tank replacement. It can cause backflow or system flooding inside the home.

Tree roots are another hidden threat. They seek out moisture, and a drain field provides a consistent supply. Roots can soon infiltrate pipes and clog leach lines. Root intrusion results in blocked drainage or complete failure. These necessitate leach line repair & replacement. Having trees or shrubs in the septic area poses intrusion risks.

Surface water from rains, irrigation systems, downspouts, or poor grading can oversaturate the drain field. They prevent proper filtration. When standing water persists, it’s often mistaken for a plumbing issue. Professional septic services can help identify the true cause, but they must be timely. Proper yard grading and drainage control are critical to keeping your system efficient.

An overburdened or poorly maintained effluent pump system can also lead to drain field failure. If the pump fails or is not correctly matched to the tank’s capacity, wastewater may flow out too fast, overwhelming the soil’s ability to absorb it. External factors such as power outages, flooding, or even pest interference can reduce the effectiveness of these pumps.

Your drain field is out in the open. It can be difficult to check on it all the time. This vulnerability can have random effects and lead to major issues. You need professional maintenance and periodic checking to prevent problems. Call the top septic solutions specialists at Straight Shooter Plumbing and Rooter today.