Sewage backup into the home is one possible sign of a failing
system. However, back up can also be simply the result of a
blockage somewhere between the house and the septic tank (this
is relatively easy to fix).
Another possible sign of failure is a smell of sewage outside
the house. If this smell is more noticeable after a lot of water
has been put into the system - multiple showers or several loads
of laundry (if the laundry waste discharges into the septic
system), for example - this may be an indication that the leach
field is failing. The smell may also be accompanied by a
"spongy" feeling in some areas of the leach field, near the
distribution box, or near the septic tank.
The "spongy" feel may be caused by water and waste being
pushed to or near ground level. If ponding water is also seen,
this is called "breakthrough" and is an almost positive
indication of failure of one or more parts of the system. This
smell, however, can also originate at the plumbing vent. In
either case, further investigation is warranted.
Dye Testing: If you see such signs, a dye test may
confirm your suspicions. For this test, a special strong dye is
put in the system - usually by flushing it down the toilet. A
significant amount of water is then washed into the system.
If there is "breakthrough", the dye will become visible on
the ground surface. If the dye is seen on the surface, this
would be a very strong indication that the system ahs failed.
Your Home Inspector, a licensed professional engineer, or a
septic system contractor can usually perform this test for you
if it is needed.
fax (425) 432-4461