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There are a few signs that indicate a failing drain field. For instance, if your septic tank starts requiring more pumping than normal, your drain field might be failing. Other signs to watch for include poor drainage after rain, standing water or sewage over the septic system, a strong septic smell outside, new and healthy grass growing over the drain field, and plumbing backups in your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets.

No. You should dispose of all oil-based finishing products through a local hazardous waste program. Not only can oil-based finishes be hazardous for the environment if disposed of in the sink, but they can cause clogs in your pipes and stop up your drains. Most municipal garbage or waste disposal companies have a specific location or pick-up schedule for hazardous materials, so that’s your best bet to get rid of excess finishing products.

To break down fat in a septic tank, you will need to hire a professional septic tank cleaner near you to either pump the septic tank or use a shock treatment to clear the clog. It’s important to not pour fat, oil, or grease (memorable with the helpful acronym FOG) down your drains because they can clog the septic system. Instead, you can dispose of them with regular trash, or if your household produces a lot of FOG waste, you may want to install a grease trap for your plumbing.

Although cesspits may be necessary depending on your main sewage system access or nearby soil quality, they carry a few drawbacks. Cesspools require regular emptying and have relatively high maintenance and pumping costs. Certain areas also disallow the use of cesspools and may require you to cover the cost of existing cesspools to be converted into septic tanks.