Get matched with top septic tank pros in Hammon, OK

A septic system can fail for various reasons, and most commonly, excessive water use or sudden surges in wastewater can overwhelm the system's capacity. Neglecting regular maintenance, like tank pumping and inspections, can also lead to clogs, leaks, and eventual breakdowns. Other issues that lead to failure include age-related wear and tear, root infiltration, improper disposal of non-biodegradable materials or chemicals into the system, unsuitable soil conditions, physical damage, and even environmental factors like flooding or soil erosion.

Yes, shower water goes into the septic tank. Shower water is a type of greywater, and in fact, all water used in a home with a septic system—including water from sinks, toilets, the dishwasher, and the washing machine—drains into the tank. When shower water enters the tank, debris like soap and hair travels with it. The solid debris sinks to the bottom to become sludge, while soap residue joins the scum layer at the top. The remaining water is treated in the tank before moving to the drain field for further treatment and dispersal. It is important to avoid putting oil or harsh chemicals down any drain, as they can cause clogs or disrupt the beneficial bacteria required for proper wastewater management in the septic system.

Frozen well pipes make themselves known quickly, as your faucets slow down to a trickle or shut down completely. If you notice a serious reduction in flow in the winter from toilets, showers, kitchen faucets, and other plumbing fixtures, a frozen pipe or two is to blame. Another tell-tale sign is frost or ice on exposed pipes outside. 

There should be a red button or an on/off switch on or in your box. Press the button or flip the switch, then turn it back on by doing the same action again. If this doesn’t work, reset the breakers inside the box by flipping them off and back on again. After this, your alarm should stay off if there’s nothing wrong with your system. However, if the alarm is still sounding and there’s still a red light on, it’s time to call a pro for a diagnosis.