When your septic system is functioning correctly, wastewater flows smoothly and silently, but clogs or a full tank trap air that forces its way back up through your drains. This causes a gurgling sound. If you don’t address gurgling pipes, the problem can escalate. This results in more serious and costly problems, including sewage backups inside your home plus drain field failures. Several common septic issues cause gurgling.
A Full Septic Tank
A full septic tank is one of the most common causes of gurgling. As time goes by, solid waste builds up and takes up space that wastewater needs to pass through. When the tank nears capacity, drainage slows, and air gets trapped. This leads to gurgling sounds and potentially raw sewage backing up into your home. Most septic tanks need pumping every three to five years, but this varies according to your tank size, household size, and water usage.
Blocked Drain or Sewer Pipe
A blockage anywhere in your septic system can obstruct the flow of water and air. The location of the clog can sometimes be identified by which of your drains is affected. If the gurgling comes from a single sink or toilet, you may only have a simple drain clog. Widespread gurgling in multiple fixtures often means a clog deeper in the main sewer line. These blockages are caused by things like grease, “flushable” wipes, or tree roots that have found their way into the pipes.
Drain Vent Issues
Your plumbing system has vents. They’re usually on the roof. They allow sewer gas to escape and let fresh air into the pipes. If a vent is clogged with debris like leaves or an animal nest, it disrupts your system’s air pressure. As a result, air forces its way back through the drain lines, which creates the gurgling you hear.
A Failing Drain Field
The drain field is a system of underground pipes that filter wastewater. If it becomes oversaturated or clogged with a thick, biological sludge (biomat), it will no longer be able to absorb water. This causes water to back up into the septic tank and the pipes leading from your home. It typically results in slow drains and gurgling.
When you hear gurgling, you need to call a septic authority to diagnose the issue. They can determine whether the problem is a simple clog or a more serious system-wide failure. Many times, a septic tank pumping is all that’s necessary. Call Tampa Septic Inc. in Tampa, FL now to schedule our septic services.