Some spring and summer seasons are just plain soggy. It seems a drenching rain comes every other day and nothing ever gets a chance to dry out. If you have a septic system, this kind of weather can lead to significant problems. 

It’s important that you know the threats to your septic system when the Midwest summers won’t stop dumping rain.

Flash Flooding

Significant rain events can lead to sudden influxes of water to your property. Since the soil around your septic system’s drain field is already absorbing water that comes from your septic, it may not be able to handle additional water that comes along quickly or that sits for a long time — as with ground flooding. This can lead to water backing up into your home or cabin or could inhibit drains from working or toilets from flushing. 

Clogged Drain Fields

The area around your septic system is called a drain field, and it’s where treated water from your septic system disperses back into the ecosystem. When soil becomes overly saturated, it can lead to water from your septic being blocked from dispersing. Since your tank’s capacity means water has to go somewhere, that means that your septic may push water back into your home, up through toilets, drains, and showers. These backups can be toxic, so make sure you’re monitoring your drain field during soggy seasonal weather. 

What To Do to Prevent Backups from Rainy Weather

Pump Your Septic 

If you haven’t had your septic tank pumped in a few years, you should schedule a septic pumping. The fuller your septic system is, the more vulnerable you are to reaching its capacity with a significant rain event. A pumped tank makes room for rain water absorption and stops the potential for clogged drain fields. 

Redirect Water

If rainwater is directed toward your septic, you’re potentially over-taxing your system. As much as possible, redirect water that runs off from rooftops and downspouts so that it goes away from your septic system. 

Risers & Lids

If your septic tank is buried but not accessible for service, you’re paying extra money to have your septic serviced. Most, if not all, modern installations include risers and lids so that service, pumping, and inspections become much easier. But if your septic system is older or wasn’t installed by a professional, you’re making service more complicated and more expensive. 

Some seasons are just soggier than others. It’s up to you as a septic owner to protect your property and take the necessary steps to preserve your system. At Septic Check, we can help. We can provide on-site inspections, help you design solutions that work for your property, and service your septic system so that it lasts as long as possible.