Septic tanks are essential to many homes across the country. They provide a conventional system that allows for the wastewater to be removed from your home, while eventually recycling it back into the ground. They are usually easy to maintain with proper care, but neglecting your septic tank can result in costly overhauls or worse, require emergency maintenance to eliminate clogged or failed systems.

Here are some of the early warning signs you should look out for to avoid a costly septic emergency.

A Change in Smell

One of the first things to key you into a potential issue is smell. If you smell sewage rising through your pipes that connect to your sinks, showers, and toilets, you should call a professional immediately to ensure everything is ok.

Toilet Clogs

If your toilet is bubbling when you flush it, or the water level in the bowl is not quickly draining (or worse – completely clogged), that is a sign that your septic tank is full and needs to be pumped. Continued use could result in damage to your tank or pipes.

Slow Water Draining

If water in your bathtub and sinks are slowly draining, this is another telltale sign that your system is at capacity, or even clogged, and should be serviced right away. A proper functioning septic system should allow free flowing water.

Drain Field Abnormalities

Another way to identify a potential issue is outside by the drain field. If you see standing water or puddles near where your septic tank’s drain field is, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning system. In addition, you may also notice the smell of sewage outside near the drain field as well.

Remember to inspect your septic tank functions regularly, and plan for service on regular intervals. Doing so can prevent types of issues that can result in further damage to your home or system.