The main signs of a failing septic system are sewage backing up into the home, slow drains with gurgling pipes, and wet or unusually green ground over the tank or drain field. EPA lists these, and county guidance adds a few more clues.
EPA lists these signs of a septic system that is not working properly:
Riverside County's Department of Environmental Health lists three signs of a malfunctioning absorption field: odors, persistent wet spots or lush green growth over the system; plumbing that turns sluggish over time, especially during heavy use or wet weather; and problems that continue even though the tank was pumped recently.
That last one matters. If the tank was just pumped and drains are still slow, the tank may not be the problem.
No. EPA says an odor can come from a roof vent or other vent pipe, which is normal for equalizing pressure, and that blocked or frozen vents can cause odors inside or outside the home. A drain field that is not working can also cause odor. Soft, wet or spongy soil around the drain field, especially without recent heavy rain, points to failure.
EPA says it cannot diagnose an odor remotely and recommends contacting a septic service provider or plumber.
Many High Desert homes are on septic, and some neighborhoods are on sewer. San Bernardino County says a property with sewer service typically receives a sewer bill. The sewering entity is often a water provider or city agency, but some are special districts or community service districts. EPA adds that you most likely have septic if you are on well water, if the water line coming into the house has no meter, or if your neighbors have septic systems.
Call a septic service provider. San Bernardino County's septic FAQ says to contact a plumber about problems with a conventional system, and a factory-qualified service provider for an advanced treatment unit. EPA says to deal with recommended repairs soon.
Why systems fail is mostly preventable. EPA says most failures come from poor design or poor maintenance, and that a drain field in unsuitable soil, on a steep slope or where groundwater is high can fail.
Call a licensed septic pro as soon as you see a backup, a surfacing wet spot or a repeat of slow drains after pumping.
EPA lists backup as one of several signs, alongside slow drains, wet ground and bright green grass.
You can look for the signs above. A professional is needed to open the tank, measure sludge and scum and inspect the drain field.
EPA lists high nitrates or coliform bacteria in well water as a possible sign of a failing system. If you have a private well and any other sign, tell your septic pro.
San Bernardino County Environmental Health Services and Land Use Services handle septic systems in the county's unincorporated areas. Cities handle their own.
High Desert Septic Pumping is a free referral service, not a contractor. Request a free quote from a local septic contractor.