If you have a septic tank, then you also have a drain field. This crucial part of your septic system helps reintroduce broken-down wastewater into the soil. Most homeowners don’t even realize they have a drainage bed hiding under their lawn until something goes wrong.
Understanding a Residential Drain Field
All septic tanks rely on a drainage bay to help manage wastewater. Without this series of pipes and trenches, sewage would eventually flood and destroy your yard, not to mention burn your nostrils.
There are several different types of residential drainage bays. Although conventional gravity systems are the most popular, you may also have a dry well, mound-type, chamber, or cesspool system. Regardless, every type serves the same purpose: distributing wastewater back into the soil.
Inside a drainage bay, you’ll find a series of trenches, perforated pipes, and aggregate. Wastewater from the septic tank flows into the pipes. The water slowly leaks through the perforations into the aggregate. From there, the soil absorbs and filters the water.
Common Drainage Bed Problems
Typically, the pipes under your lawn distribute wastewater into the ground without fail. There’s no sign of anything happening. But, if the drainage bed develops a leak, you may be in for a rude and aromatic awakening. Here are the most common signs that something is amiss:
- Random patches of thick, lime green grass near the drainage area
- Pungent smells, often like sewage or rotten eggs, emitting from the lawn
- Backed up sewage pipes or drains in the house
- Spongy, wet spots in the grass
- Overflowing septic tank
Like any other plumbing issue, the situation will only worsen if left unaddressed over time. Hence, it’s best to call out a plumber for repairs right away.
Preventative Drainage Field Service from a Trusted Plumber
A well-maintained drainage bed will last you for countless years without fail. Most problems seem to appear out of the blue, but in reality, they were probably years in the making. Armor Plumbing offers regular maintenance to keep your drainage areas performing at their peak.
The team at Armor Plumbing is available 24/7 to resolve your pipe and sewage issues. Our plumbers have years of experience, and there is no septic problem we haven’t seen. So, connect with us online to schedule repairs to keep your home’s drain field working like new.