The Septic Tank Man

A septic tanks resource for homeowners

Septic Tank Guides

How Much is Too Much? Determining the Right Fullness for Your Septic Tank

As long as it’s working correctly, your septic tank should be filled to just below the level of the outlet pipe. This pipe transports effluent to the absorption field which helps maintain appropriate liquid levels within the tank.

Generally, the liquid should sit about 12 inches below the tank’s top. If it exceeds the height of the outlet pipe, you’re likely dealing with a blocked drain field and need to take immediate action.

Signs Your Septic Tank is Overloaded

Sometimes, you might not be able to tell if your septic tank is overloaded right away. To help you with that, here are the signs that you want to watch out for:

  • Sewer Backup – This usually indicates blocked drain fields or pipes. The first signs typically show up in the lower-level drains, such as in a basement bathroom.
  • Water Accumulation – If you see water pooling around your septic tank area, it’s a sign that your tank is overflowing.
  • Foul Smells – Odors emanating from your septic system generally point to a failing drain field. Take action promptly.
  • Sluggish Drains – While slow drains may simply indicate a clogged pipe, they can also signal a full septic tank.
  • Lush Grass Over the Septic Area – If grass over the septic system appears greener and more robust than other parts of your lawn, this could indicate an overflowing tank.

Understanding Septic Tank Functionality

A septic tank serves primarily as a settling chamber. Wastewater enters which allows solids to settle at the bottom as sludge while fats, oils, and grease (FOG) float to the top, forming the scum layer.

Over time, both layers thicken and can reach the inlet and outlet levels. As a septic tank owner, it’s crucial to periodically check these levels. While professional services use advanced tools like the ‘sludge judge,’ DIY alternatives also exist for the hands-on homeowner.

DIY Test for Sludge Levels

  1. Attach a light-colored, small towel securely to the end of a pole. The towel should wrap upwards from the pole’s bottom for about three feet.
  2. Probe the septic tank just behind the baffle and let the pole sit there for a minute or two.
  3. Remove the pole and assess the sludge level indicated on the towel.
  4. Use this mark to gauge the distance of the sludge from the outlet baffle.
  5. If the sludge is nearing the outlet baffle, immediate pumping is advised. The sludge should be no closer than 12 inches from the tank’s bottom.

DIY Test for Scum Levels

  1. Create a measuring tool by attaching a 6×6-inch or 6×8-inch board to an 8-foot pole.
  2. Insert the tool into the open septic tank until it rests atop the scum layer. Mark the stick’s height from the scum layer’s top.
  3. Probe through the scum layer and mark the stick once you feel the resistance from the layer’s bottom.
  4. Calculate the difference between the two marks to find out the scum layer’s thickness.

Safety Precautions

Be extremely cautious when conducting these tests, as septic tanks contain hazardous gases. Never enter the tank, and ensure that it’s securely closed post-testing.

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