The Smell Test: When That Funky Odor Means It’s Time for Septic Service

The Smell Test: When That Funky Odor Means It’s Time for Septic Service

As a homeowner, the last thing you want is a smelly yard and living spaces. Sewage odors emanating from your drains can compromise the safety and quality of your home, prompting immediate attention. That’s where Metro Septic Pumping comes in as your trusted partner for quality septic services in Atlanta, GA. Our licensed technicians can pinpoint even the slightest problem, assess the extent of the damage, and recommend effective solutions to prevent further issues. With many years of experience helping homeowners deal with drain field odors and restore comfort to their properties, you can trust us to resolve your problem quickly.

Why Does My Septic Tank and Drain Field Smell?

A properly installed and well-maintained septic system should be odorless. If you catch a whiff of sewage in your yard or drains, call a septic company to diagnose and resolve the problem. Let’s delve into the usual suspects for sewer smells to ensure you make informed decisions.

Sewage Backup

Over time, sludge and scum can accumulate in the tank and clog the drain field. Delaying septic pumping can lead to solid waste in the leach field, obstructing flow and causing foul smells. Additionally, biomat buildup around the pipes can worsen over time, trapping odors that end up in your drain field. While foul odors may not raise concerns initially, early intervention by a trusted septic service can help prevent devastating scenarios.

Overloading the System

Septic systems are designed to handle a specific amount of wastewater. Excessive water use can overwhelm the system, leading to soil saturation, improper filtration, and foul odors. If you have many household members, spreading out laundry through the week and using one appliance at a time can help. In the case of a smaller tank for your water usage needs, the septic company will recommend upgrading to a larger unit.

Poor Ventilation

Lastly, foul smells indoors or outside can indicate a vent problem that needs attention. With all the waste that goes down your drains, accumulated waste in the tank releases gases, which can escape into the surrounding area and wreak havoc. In addition, clogged or cracked pipes in the drain field can allow wastewater to leach around the soil and create foul odors.

How Does Septic Tank Cleaning Help?

Septic odors can arise for different reasons, hence the need to have a reputable septic service on hand to address issues before they escalate. If you want to get rid of sewage smells on your property, here’s how septic cleaning can help.

Remove Sludge

Sludge and scum accumulate at the bottom of the tank over time, causing gases to build up and escape into the surrounding areas. Professional septic cleaning involves pumping out buildup in the tank to ensure safe sludge levels and enhance bacterial activity. By eliminating excess waste regularly, you can enjoy optimal functionality and a safe living environment.

Addressing Clogs and Blockages

Beyond ensuring safe sludge levels in the tank, septic cleaning clears blockages that trap foul odors and prevent airflow. Professionals use industry-grade equipment to clear buildup effectively, allowing gases to escape through the vents, thus eliminating foul smells. In the case of recurrences, a complete upgrade may be necessary to avoid nasty surprises.

Biological Treatments

Septic cleaning goes beyond pumping sludge and scum out of the tank. Septic experts may introduce beneficial bacteria and enzymes into the tank to help break down organic waste into odorless compounds, such as carbon dioxide and water. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, avoid chemical cleaners as they disrupt bacterial balance in the tank, contributing to foul smells.

Contact Metro Septic Pumping to book an appointment with our technicians and learn more about septic odors. We provide comprehensive septic services, which include sharing pertinent information to keep your system functioning optimally for years.