Septic Drain Field Repair

Drain Field Problems? Do You Know What to Do?

Are you having problems with your drain field?  Have you noticed an increase in the wastewater flowing into the drain field, resulting in constant saturation?  When excess water builds in the drain field, it begins to cause water to sit in the drain line longer, and a bacterial mat can begin to form along the trench walls.  This is a significant problem that needs to be addressed sooner than later.

However, it is not the only problem that can occur with septic drain fields.  As the leading septic system service provider, Brantley Septic is exceptionally knowledgeable and experienced in septic systems and drain fields. If you have an immediate pressing issue with your septic drain field requiring repair, contact us at (919) 404-9511.!

As mentioned, there are more problems that can arise with drain fields.  Properly designed septic systems, and corresponding drain fields, are rated to handle a specific amount of wastewater.   In northern North Carolina, approximately 10-15% of septic systems need repair at any given time.  Of those, a third require septic drain repair.

Septic drain field operation is simple.  Drain fields are used to remove contaminants and impurities from the liquid emerging from the septic tank. The area is only designed to handle a specific amount of wastewater, and when the amount is exceeded, backups, unfortunately, can occur.

Yes, diagnosing a septic field problem can be difficult; however, that is what we do at Brantley Septic.  Being able to describe your problem to our technician helps to diagnose the problem quickly.  To learn about septic system parts and how a septic tank works, check out our septic system page. [click here]

Surprisingly to most, the septic drain field is the most expensive component of a septic tank drainage system and a good percentage of the cost during septic tank construction.   The health of the drain field also has the most significant influence on the life expectancy of the system.  Unfortunately, it can be the most expensive to repair.

Drain Field Failures and Common Causes

At Brantley Septic, the most common septic tank failures occur when bacteria and enzymes, in the septic tank, are killed by harsh household cleaning chemicals or strong medications.  Other failures are the result of mechanical breakdowns with pumps, filters, and aerators.  Both of these situations allow the escape of sludge from the septic tank, resulting in an overloaded drain field.  Overloading of solids causes an imbalance in bio-mat.

  • Irregular septic tank pumping or cleanings
  • Broken drain field piping or compacted soil from parking vehicles over the drain field
  • Outdated system design resulting in overcapacity issues
  • Tree roots in the septic distribution box, septic system pumps, septic media filters, and drain field

These are possible causes, but how do you know when there is a problem? Watch for the symptoms and indications.  Indications or symptoms of septic drain field problems, which require repair, are often simple and obvious. Here are a few:

  • Outdoor septic system odors, especially above the drain field
  • Slow or sluggish flushing of toilets or drains
  • Noises emanating from septic pipes
  • Wet spots or water collection above the drain field resulting in septic tank sewage rising to the surface
  • Backups from toilets or other interior plumbing
  • Pump or high-level water alarms

Drain Field Problems are Messy

Messy cleanups are an unfortunate result of drain field problems along with inconvenient smells, odors, and potentially costly repairs.  The worst situation is to have a septic system emergency when you have a family or friends over for a big party!

Brantley Septic is Here to Help with All Septic Drain Field Repairs

Drain field problems, with your septic system, is a huge, messy problem.  A problem that you want repaired right away.  The smell is disgusting, and, if not addressed quickly, health issues may be just around the corner.

Don’t procrastinate.  Contact Brantley Septic, either by phone or completing our easy online form. We are expecting your call.  (919) 404-9511.

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