Main Causes of Septic Backup

March 15 2021

Main Causes of Septic Backup

Dealing with a septic backup can seem like a homeowner’s worst nightmare. No one wants to struggle with the mess and stress that they can cause. Thankfully, the majority of backups can be prevented with proper care and maintenance. At Septic Blue, we provide high quality septic services for local clients including septic tank installation, septic pumping, septic cleaning and septic repair in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding communities. Are you worried about your septic tank becoming blocked or overflowing? Here are the main causes of septic system backups and what you can do to prevent such an issue from occurring on your property. 

Overuse of Harsh Chemicals 

Many people assume that the best way to treat a clog is to pour a gallon of drain cleaner into their pipes. This is not the case at all. In fact, consistently using harsh chemicals can not only damage pipes and fixtures, but they can cause massive problems with your septic system. This is because harsh chemicals of any kind, be it drain cleaner, bleach or antibacterial solutions, can kill beneficial bacteria. This “good” bacteria inside your system is responsible for breaking down the solid wastes inside your tank. If these microorganisms die off in large numbers, then it could cause a rapid accumulation of materials inside your tank and cause it to backup or overflow prematurely. 

Blocked Lines 

Shrub and tree roots can also cause a lot of problems for septic systems. Thirsty roots will often infiltrate septic lines. Once inside, they usually grow out of control quickly because of the high level of nutrients inside the wastewater. These roots can block the proper flow of water through your system, causing chronic backups. If left in place for long, they can even cause burst pipes and sewer line collapses. A root removal and trenchless pipe repair service may be needed to fix the issue long term. 

Full Tank 

Over time, the grease, oil, soap residue, food, hair, toilet paper and other debris will build up on the floor and walls of your septic tank. If these materials aren’t removed periodically, it can harden, decreasing the overall capacity of your system. This can cause backups and damage to your tank. To avoid this issue, it is best to invest in routine septic pumping and septic tank cleaning services every 2 to 4 years. 

Do You Need a Professional Septic Service for Your Property? Call Septic Blue Today 

Are you tired of chronic clogs, sewage backups and other septic issues in your home or commercial property? Then call the experts at Septic Blue. Our qualified septic specialists are always ready to come to the rescue with our 24 hour emergency services. Contact our office for more information about our wide selection of offerings or to schedule an appointment for your next inspection, septic tank installation, septic repair or septic pumping and cleaning service in Atlanta, Marietta, Roswell, Lawrenceville, Cumming, Milton, Sandy Springs, Duluth, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Lilburn, McDonough, Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Georgia or a nearby metro area neighborhood.