Septic tanks are fully sealed underground, so they’re protected from even the most torrential downpours. However, the same can’t be said of the drain field, which returns treated wastewater to the soil. Understanding how heavy rains affect your water treatment system will help you avoid expensive repairs and unscheduled septic pumping. Here's a closer look at the impact of rain on this vital component.

What Is the Drain Field?

As wastewater enters the septic tank, solid matter settles to the bottom, where it’s processed by naturally occurring bacteria. Liquid waste flows through the top of the tank and out through a pipe into the drain field.

This area consists of perforated pipes buried under a section of your yard, through which wastewater is gradually released back into the environment once it's sanitary. This occurs through natural filtration by the soil.

How Can Storms Impact It?

Completely saturated soil doesn’t have room for more moisture, so it may not be able to absorb water from the drain field. Instead of filtering through the soil, wastewater may collect on the surface, producing foul odors and potentially causing a health hazard.

After especially heavy rains, wastewater may not even be able to leave the pipes, leaving it nowhere to go but back into the septic tank. While rainwater may not flow into the tank, it could overflow with waste from your house. Eventually, you may notice unpleasant smells, strange gurgling noises, and even sewage backing up into the drains.

How Can You Avoid Septic Issues During Rainy Weather?

While you may not be able to control the weather, you can help your septic system cope with the challenges of heavy rain. Keeping items like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and cotton balls out of the tank will help prevent the system from overflowing. Scheduling regular septic pumping will also ensure there’s enough room in the tank to accommodate occasional water flow issues.

Careful landscaping can also minimize the level of water saturation on your drain field. Make sure that water flows downhill from the area, and fill any depressions to keep water from saturating the soil. This will help the soil around the buried pipes stay as dry as possible, even in the heaviest rains.

For over 30 years, Chris Mote's Pumping Service has provided septic pumping, installation, and repair services to homes and businesses throughout Gainesville and Cleveland, GA. Whether your tank is due to be pumped or you're experiencing a new issue, their honest and highly trained technicians are ready to help. In addition, they’re currently hiring CDL drivers and proudly offer time off and generous compensation in a field that’s always in demand. Visit their website for more on their septic pumping services or call (706) 865-5526 to schedule an appointment.