Around 80% of all infectious diseases are water-related, and septic systems are the largest contributor to wastewater and the most frequently reported sources of groundwater contamination in the United States. Furthermore, a failing or malfunctioning septic system also risks human and animal life and can pollute the environment. A responsible septic owner must be alert to the signs of failure, regardless of the system’s age or condition, and respond quickly when any potential issues are discovered.
In this blog post, we’ll explore if your septic system is making you sick and what steps you can take to protect your health and the environment.
How a failing septic tank can threaten your health?
Leading septic system inspection, maintenance, and pumping experts in North Cape Coral reveal the obvious signs to the question, “Can a septic tank make you sick?”
1. Harmful Gases:
When a septic tank starts to fail, it can release harmful sewage odors from gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide. These gases are not only foul-smelling but can be extremely dangerous to your health if inhaled in large amounts. They can cause symptoms ranging from headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even asphyxiation in extreme cases.
2. Skin Infections:
As your septic system fails, sewage can leak out into surrounding areas, causing groundwater contamination. This sewage contains bacteria and other pathogens that can cause skin infections if you come into contact with it. Open sores or cuts are particularly susceptible, but even intact skin can be affected if the contamination is severe enough.
3. Contaminated Water:
As hinted above, one of the most serious risks of a failing septic system is the contamination of nearby water sources. If the tank leaks, sewage can seep into the groundwater or nearby surface water bodies like rivers or lakes. This contaminated water can spread diseases like cholera, dysentery, and Hepatitis A if consumed or even if it comes into contact with your skin during activities like swimming or bathing.
4. Environmental Issues:
Beyond the immediate health risks, a failing septic system can also have broader environmental consequences. Sewage contains nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen, which can cause algal blooms in water bodies. These blooms can lead to oxygen depletion in the water bodies, resulting in the death of fish, injury to aquatic fauna, and other damage to aquatic ecosystems. Also, sewage can be loaded with chemicals and other pollutants that could negatively affect plants, animals, and the total environment.
Signs of a Septic Tank Problem
Some common signs of septic system failure include,
- Strange, gurgling sounds in the plumbing system.
- Water and sewage from clogged drains, toilets, and sinks are overflowing and flooding inside the house.
- Sinks, bathtubs, and showers drain very slowly.
- High levels of nitrates or coliform bacteria in water wells.
- Standing/pooling water or damp spots near the septic area.
- Foul sewage odors around the septic system area or leach field.
- Bright green, healthy, spongy, lush grass over the septic system or drainfield, even during dry, arid weather.
- Algal blooms in nearby lakes or ponds.
How To Fix A Failing Septic System
Some healthy steps you can take to address a failing septic system include,
1. Damage control
Untreated wastewater can be hazardous because it carries harmful pathogens. If you find it pooling in your landscape or backing up into your property, clear the area properly to keep your family and pets away. Don’t attempt to clean the mess yourself unless you’ve got the right protective gear and you’re absolutely sure it’s safe. It’s best to leave the cleanup to professionals like Crews Environmental, who have the expertise and equipment to handle it safely and effectively.
2. Connect with your insurance company
If wastewater backs up into your property, contact your insurance company for details about compensation and coverage. Your insurance policy might include coverage for sewage backups. Don’t worry if it doesn’t; you’re probably still covered for regular water damage.
3. Call a septic professional
As soon as you notice a dire septic emergency, call a reputed septic professional like Crews Environmental as soon as possible. Even for emergencies and non-emergencies alike, our dedicated team of experts has the required experience, equipment, and expertise to correct the problem.
Just like every aspect of your home, septic systems also need regular inspection, pumping, repairs, and maintenance. If maintained properly, your septic system will provide reliable service for many years. Neglecting septic system maintenance can lead to serious and expensive problems. Plus, these systems have a lifespan and will eventually require replacement. So, it’s best to reach out to a professional septic service provider to ensure your system stays in top shape and avoids costly issues down the road.
4. Contact your system’s manufacturer
The next best step is to contact your system’s manufacturer for assistance. At Crews Environmental, we provide professional maintenance, pumping, and repair services to ensure your septic tank operates efficiently and reliably.
We also have the necessary experience and expertise to service all kinds of residential, commercial, and industrial septic systems in North Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Lehigh Acres, Captiva, Naples, San Carlos Park, and nearby FL areas. Whether you need routine maintenance, troubleshooting assistance, or repairs, our team is here to help you keep your system running smoothly. Contact us at 239-332-1986 to schedule an appointment with our team today.
5. Talk to local authorities
As a responsible septic system owner, you should discuss your failing system with your local municipality or environmental authority. These local experts will investigate the issue and give you tailored advice on what to do next.
Final Takeaway
If you’re concerned about the health of your septic system, contact the professionals at Crews Environmental. We’re a full-service septic company offering routine septic system inspections, pumping, maintenance, and repairs. Since 1982, we’re dedicated to providing unparalleled levels of service to septic and grease trap owners in Bonita Springs, North Cape Coral, Captiva, Naples, Lehigh Acres, San Carlos Park, FL, FT Myers, and nearby areas. Our mission is to provide our customers with the best service, safety, and integrity.
We’re licensed, bonded, insured, and certified to provide professional service to conventional septic systems, and all of the most commonly used Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) and Performance-Based Treatment Systems (PBTS) approved in Florida.
Contact us at 239-332-1986 to schedule an appointment with our team today.
