A flood is one of the most devastating, damaging, and costly natural disasters a homeowner has to deal with. Aside from the home itself sustaining damage, the external parts of the property are exposed and in even more danger. One part of the property that can be damaged severely during a flood is the septic tank and its system.

Although a well-maintained tank can last anywhere from 25-30 years with regular septic tank cleaning in York every 3-5 years, a flood can change all that. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when dealing with a septic tank system that has recently been flooded:

#1: Relieve The Pressure

Floodwaters that cover the septic tank system adds a lot of pressure to the tank underground. Due to flooding, the water inside the tank cannot drain properly resulting in a backup which can cause toilets and sinks to overflow. To avoid this, it is best to use toilets less or even not at all until the floodwaters have fully receded.

#2: Do NOT Dispose Of Flood Waters Down The Drain

If floodwaters have entered your home, it only seems logical to dispose of the water down the sink or the toilet because it is easy and accessible. Don’t do this because all of the water that is flushed or goes down the drain will enter the tank. If the tank is also flooded, you are only increasing the likelihood of a flooded tank backing up and overflowing into your home.

#3: Do NOT Pump The Tank

It might be tempting to pump a flooded tank but this will only result in more complications. A flood will result in water, silt, and mud to enter the tank and its draining field which will reduce the system’s capability to fully drain. Unsaturated or wet soil can also push the tank up and pop it off the ground, creating an even bigger and more expensive challenge.

#4: Install Rainwater Drain Systems Away From The Tank

A necessary preventive measure is to install all rainwater drain systems such as the gutters to face away or even at the opposite side of the septic tank. If water drains directly over the tank, this will lead to a lot of trouble and additional work for the drain field in the event of a flood. In many cases, the water will not drain at all resulting in an ineffective tank.

#5: Call The Pros

The moment you detect that there is something seriously wrong with the septic tank and its system, call the septic tank cleaning in York experts for assistance. Foul smells, constantly wet spots, lawn not draining are just some of the signs that there is something wrong with the septic tank.

Do not wait until the entire sewage system backs up and leaks all over your home to get the issue fixed. The experts will do a quick inspection of the property, the tank, and the entire system and offer advice on the best way to handle the issues as safety and swiftly as possible.

Smith’s Sanitary Septic Service is the go-to team of home and business owners when it comes to septic tank cleaning in York. Contact us today for more info!

By Sawyer Cole Harris

Sawyer Cole Harris: Sawyer, a DIY enthusiast, shares home project tutorials, woodworking tips, and creative ways to personalize your space.