7 Common Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Repair

Ignoring septic tank problems can lead to disasters you don’t want to face.

If you're noticing strange symptoms around your home, chances are your system is trying to tell you something. Addressing these issues quickly can save your home from unnecessary headaches.

This guide will help you recognize the signs of trouble, understand what’s causing them, and act before the problem worsens. By the end, you’ll know when it’s time to call for a professional septic tank repair.

If your sinks and toilets take forever to drain, your septic tank might be full or clogged. Blockages in your pipes or system could be preventing proper flow.

What Causes This Issue?

• Sludge buildup in the tank
• Clogs in the drain pipes or main line
• Overloaded systems due to heavy use

Tip: Start by using a plunger or snake tool. If the problem persists, it’s time to have your tank inspected.

Puddles or wet spots in your yard, especially around the septic tank or drain field, often signal trouble.

The Likely Culprit

• An overflowing septic tank
• A clogged or failing drain field

Solution: Don’t attempt to fix this on your own. Standing water can contain harmful bacteria, so it’s best to call a professional

If waste is backing up into your home, it’s one of the clearest signs that a professional septic tank repair is needed. Backups can damage your property and create a health hazard.

What to Check For

• Backflow from toilets or drains
• Overflowing washing machines or dishwashers

Call a septic service immediately to avoid further damage.

While lush grass might seem like a good thing, it could indicate an issue underground.

What’s Happening?

• Leaks in the tank are releasing nutrients into the soil
• A failing drain field is oversaturating the area

A patch of unusually green grass above your septic system should prompt an inspection.

Gurgling sounds when you flush or run water could point to air bubbles trapped in your septic lines.

What to Look For

• Persistent gurgling noises
• Difficulty flushing toilets or running sinks

This can sometimes be fixed by clearing minor clogs, but recurring noises may mean your septic tank isn’t processing waste correctly and needs repair.

Regular maintenance includes checking your septic tank’s water levels. If it’s consistently high, waste may not be flowing to the drain field properly.

Possible Causes

• A clogged outlet pipe
• Drain field failure

Schedule a professional inspection to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Failing to address these issues can lead to:

• Property damage from sewage backups
• Contamination of groundwater or nearby wells
• Expensive full-system replacements

For more information, check this guide from the EPA on septic system maintenance.

You should contact a professional septic service as soon as you notice any of these signs. Waiting too long can turn a small issue into a large, costly repair.

At GoSeptic & Sewer, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing septic tank problems. Our team has over 15 years of experience serving Cumming, Georgia and the surrounding areas.

Your septic tank is an essential part of your home, and recognizing the warning signs can save you from costly repairs and health risks. Whether it’s slow drains, odors, or standing water, acting quickly is your best defense.

Let GoSeptic & Sewer help you protect your home. Contact us today for expert septic tank repair Cumming residents trust. Call +14708873895 or fill out our contact form to schedule a service appointment.