Why Does A Septic System Fail?
An onsite wastewater leach field can fail for a variety of reasons, including:
Septic System Drain Field Failure
Hydraulic overload: If too much water is introduced into the system too quickly, the leach field can become overloaded, resulting in clogging and failure. This can occur if there are too many people living in the household or if excessive water use occurs, such as from leaking plumbing fixtures or appliances.
Poor site selection: If the leach field is located in an area with poor drainage or unsuitable soil conditions, it may not be able to properly treat and dispose of the wastewater. Soil that is too permeable, such as sandy soil, or soil that is too impermeable, such as clay soil, can both contribute to failure.
Compaction of soil: If the soil in the leach field becomes compacted, either from heavy equipment or frequent foot traffic, it can reduce the ability of the soil to effectively absorb and treat wastewater.
Inadequate maintenance: Lack of regular maintenance, such as infrequent pumping of the septic tank or failure to repair damaged pipes or components, can lead to system failure.
Presence of non-degradable substances: Certain substances, such as cooking oils, cleaning chemicals, and other non-biodegradable materials, can accumulate in the septic tank and clog the leach field.
Root intrusion: Tree and plant roots can invade the leach field and damage the pipes, leading to clogging and failure.
In general, regular maintenance, proper system design, and appropriate use and management of the system can help to prevent leach field failure and ensure the long-term effectiveness of onsite wastewater treatment systems.