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Depending on the home, wastewater either goes into a septic tank and seeps back into the backyard or is sent via sewer system to a local sewage-treatment plant. Septic systems naturally separate different components of the waste so that it can naturally and safely disperse it. They are usually reserved for homes not served by a municipal sewage department (like rural homes). A treatment plant, on the other hand, speeds up that process through screening and purification.

The best times of year to pump or empty a septic tank are spring and fall. Many professionals recommend spring because the ground has thawed, making the tank easier to access, and any snowmelt or rainfall can aid in proper drainage. Pumping before summer is also ideal to avoid conflicts with vacations or outdoor gatherings.

Fall is another great option, as contractors may be less busy than in the spring. Servicing the tank in late fall or early spring can also reduce the risk of overflow from extra precipitation during winter and spring.

While summer is a possibility, winter is generally not recommended. The ground is often frozen, which can make it difficult to access the tank, and the waste inside may also be frozen.

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.

It is generally safe to stay in a house that smells like sewage for a short time, but you should get the problem fixed as soon as possible. While the level of sewer gas is usually low enough to only cause minor symptoms, prolonged inhalation can lead to headaches, nausea, or respiratory irritation. High levels of gas exposure can be more dangerous, and high concentrations of methane—a component of sewer gas—can pose an explosion risk in enclosed spaces. If you smell sewer gas in your home, ventilate the area and call a professional to locate, assess, and fix the problem, as it will not go away on its own.