Best aquarium service pros near Erving, MA

Yes, a septic tank can get full. If this happens, you might run into issues flushing your toilets or draining your sinks. You may also notice your pipes making gurgling noises or the smell of sewage floating around your house. Other signs of a backed-up septic tank include water pooling or fresh, healthy grass growing above your drain field.

A septic smell may be harmful because sewer gas is dangerous depending on the exposure amount and length of time. Sewer gas is made up of multiple gases, including hydrogen sulfide, methane, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. Some of these gases, like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, are toxic to humans and can be fatal in high concentrations or long exposures.

You should pump your septic tank once every two to four years for a family of four, depending on your septic tank size. You should pump a 1,000-gallon septic tank every two years, while a 1,500-gallon tank should be pumped every four years. Water usage also affects how often you should pump your septic tank. If you notice slow drains, foul smells, or gurgling sounds from your drains, you should pump your septic tank as soon as possible.

Common signs that a septic tank is full include plumbing issues, odors, and changes in your yard. You may notice wastewater or sewage backing up into your home's drains, or that sinks, tubs, and toilets are draining slowly. Gurgling or bubbling sounds from the pipes are also a key indicator. Outside, you might smell foul sewage odors around your house or the septic tank area. Look for pooling water, spongy soil, or a marshy environment around the drain field. Another tell-tale sign is a patch of grass over the septic system that is suddenly lusher and greener than the rest of your lawn. If you notice any of these signs, you should contact a septic professional for an inspection and pumping.