As a homeowner new to septic system care and issues, it can be difficult to recognize when you're facing a major septic system problem. If there's a problem with your septic system, you'll need to know how to recognize it. Here are a few of the most common issues that you might encounter with your septic system and the basics you need to know about repairing those issues.

Sludge Accumulation in the Tank

Septic tanks are designed to allow liquids to flow out into the drain field while solids remain in the tank to be broken down by the microbes and bacteria in the tank. As these solids are broken down, they become sludge that accumulates at the bottom of the septic tank. Over time, this sludge builds up because it has nowhere else to go.

When left to accumulate for too long, this sludge can actually lead to septic tank overflow and similar issues. When there's too much sludge in the tank, there's no room left for other waste. This can not only cause your septic tank to overflow, but it can also cause plumbing backups into your home as well.

The only way to avoid this problem is by having your tank pumped out and cleaned regularly. Your septic tank should be pumped and cleaned at least every few years. The more people there are in your home or the smaller your tank is, the more often you should have this done. Pumping and cleaning will remove the sludge from the tank and prevent septic system damage.

Damage to the Tank's Lines or Baffle

As your septic tank ages, the lines and the tank baffle can deteriorate. They become more susceptible to cracks and other damage. The lines that run from your septic tank to your home's plumbing are easy enough to replace if they are damaged, but when you start to notice damage to the septic tank baffle, that's a key indication that your tank may be failing and need replacement.

You can have your septic tank, the plumbing lines, and the tank baffle inspected through a full camera inspection when you have the tank pumped and cleaned. This inspection will uncover early signs of damage before you might even notice any symptoms. The sooner you identify any of this damage, the easier it is to have a septic system repair technician address it and prevent complete septic system failure.

Damage to the Tank Itself

You probably think of your septic tank as a pretty durable structure. After all, most septic tanks are made of poured concrete. However, while concrete is pretty durable and damage-resistant, it's not impervious to all threats. One common issue with concrete, even in septic tanks, is tree root penetration.

If you have a lot of trees in your yard, especially older trees or trees planted near your septic system, you may have problems with tree roots that have penetrated your septic tank or are putting pressure on the tank's walls.

A septic system inspection will help uncover this problem, and then you may need to have a septic tank repair technician either re-line the tank or repair the damage. Talk with your technician about the best solution based on the severity of the damage.

For more information about residential septic services, contact a local company.