Septic systems aren’t set-it-and-forget-it. They need attention. Most homeowners call when something goes wrong. By then it may be too late..
Maintenance flags problems before they escalate. Here are some common signs it’s overdue:
- Slow drains or gurgling toilets.
- Water pooling in the yard.
- Foul odors near the tank.
- Alarms tripping for no reason.
- Using the system beyond its design rating.
Art Nikolin has seen it all: “One homeowner ignored wet spots in the yard for months. By the time we arrived, the drain field was already failed, requiring a $28,000 replacement. A routine maintenance two years earlier would have cost about $800 for pumping, inspection, and minor adjustments.”
Washington’s wet climate accelerates issues. Rain saturates fields. Roots invade lines. Grease builds up in baffles. Without septic maintenance services, small problems compound.
Annual checks reveal scum and sludge buildup. Tanks need pumping every 3–5 years based on household size. Larger families require tighter intervals.
Maintenance isn’t optional. It’s insurance against catastrophe.