Plumbing Inspections Calgary | A properly functioning septic system is essential to the comfort and safety of your home. However, because it’s hidden underground, it’s easy to overlook until something goes wrong. From unpleasant odours to slow drains, the early warning signs of septic issues are often subtle, but ignoring them can lead to major (and expensive) problems down the line.
In this blog, we’ll go over the key signs that your septic system needs professional attention before small issues turn into costly repairs.
1. Slow Drains Throughout the House
If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slower than usual, your septic system may be struggling. While a single clogged drain is common, slow drainage throughout your home could indicate a full or failing septic tank.
Why It’s a Problem
When your septic tank reaches capacity, wastewater doesn’t flow efficiently into the drain field. This can cause backups, gurgling noises, or unpleasant smells inside your home.
What to Do
Schedule a septic inspection as soon as you notice sluggish drainage. A professional can determine whether your tank needs pumping or if there’s a deeper issue with your system’s drainage field.
2. Foul Odours Around Your Property
If you’ve noticed a persistent sewage smell near your drains or in your yard, it’s time to take action.
Why It’s a Problem
Odours are a sign that your septic system isn’t processing waste properly. It could mean your tank is full, a pipe is cracked, or the drain field is saturated. Ignoring these odours could result in wastewater surfacing in your yard, a serious health and environmental hazard.
What to Do
Don’t mask the smell with air fresheners or landscaping. Contact a septic professional immediately to identify the source of the issue and prevent contamination.
3. Pooling Water or Lush Green Patches in the Yard
After heavy rain, a bit of surface moisture is normal. But if you notice standing water or unusually green grass near your septic tank or drain field, that’s a red flag.
Why It’s a Problem
Pooling water or vibrant patches of grass often indicate that untreated wastewater is seeping to the surface. This means your septic system is overloaded or leaking, posing risks to both your property and groundwater.
What to Do
Avoid walking on or mowing the area until it’s inspected. A licensed technician can assess whether your drain field needs repair or replacement.
4. Gurgling Sounds in Pipes
If you hear gurgling noises when flushing the toilet or running the sink, it may signal a blockage or backup forming in your septic system.
Why It’s a Problem
Gurgling sounds are caused by trapped air escaping through your plumbing. This often happens when wastewater isn’t flowing properly due to an obstruction or a full septic tank.
What to Do
Don’t wait until the issue escalates to a full backup. Contact a professional for a thorough inspection. Regular plumbing inspections Calgary homeowners trust can help identify and resolve these problems early.
5. Sewage Backup in the Home
This is one of the most serious signs of septic trouble, and one you definitely don’t want to ignore.
Why It’s a Problem
When wastewater backs up into your sinks, tubs, or toilets, it’s a clear sign that your septic system has reached its limit or that there’s a blockage in the main line. Backups are unsanitary and can cause extensive damage to your flooring and drywall.
What to Do
Turn off your water supply and call a septic specialist immediately. Avoid using any plumbing fixtures until the issue has been properly diagnosed and repaired.
6. It’s Been More Than 3 Years Since Your Last Inspection
Even if your system seems fine, routine maintenance is key to preventing emergencies. Most homeowners should schedule a professional septic inspection every 2–3 years.
Why It’s a Problem
Neglecting regular maintenance allows solids to build up in the tank, which can lead to clogs, backups, or costly drain field failures.
What to Do
If you can’t remember the last time your septic system was inspected or pumped, now’s the time to schedule it. Preventive care is always cheaper than major repairs.
Protect Your Home with What The Flush Plumbing Services
Your septic system plays a vital role in keeping your home safe and functional. By recognizing these early warning signs and acting quickly, you can avoid the stress and expense of a complete system failure.
At What The Flush Plumbing Services, our team of certified technicians offers expert septic and plumbing inspections, repairs, and maintenance across Calgary. Whether you’re dealing with slow drains or a full-blown backup, we’re here to help keep your system running smoothly.