Is Your Septic Tank Making You Sick?

In this brief article brought to you by Septic Blue of Orlando, we shed light on the potential health and sanitation risks of a neglected or damaged septic tank installation. We’ll also share some tips on minimizing risk and harm. If you are looking for a reputable septic company, you can call Septic Blue of Orlando to speak with a live member of our team.

Understanding the health and sanitation risks of septic systems

Septic systems treat and dispose of household wastewater on-site. When functioning correctly, they effectively manage waste. However, if they malfunction, they can become a source of serious health hazards.

A failing septic system can leak harmful pathogens into the groundwater. If you use a well for drinking water, this contamination can lead to waterborne diseases such as giardiasis, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Wastewater from a malfunctioning septic system can also seep into nearby streams, rivers, or lakes. This pollution not only harms the environment but can also pose a health risk to humans and animals that interact with contaminated water.

Moreover, untreated sewage can saturate the soil around your home, posing a direct contact risk. Children playing outside, pets, and even gardening can expose you to harmful bacteria and viruses.

The threats are not just underground. Septic tanks produce gases such as methane, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia. If these gases escape into your home due to a malfunction, they can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and other health issues.

Minimizing risk and harm

Maintaining your septic system properly is crucial to preventing health hazards. Here are some practical steps to minimize risk and ensure your system functions efficiently:

• Mind what you flush. Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, diapers, and paper towels, as these can clog the system.
• Be cautious about pouring chemicals down the drain. Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank that help break down waste.
• Implement water-saving measures such as fixing leaky faucets, installing low-flow fixtures, and spreading out laundry loads over the week.
• Avoid driving or parking over your drain field, as the weight can compact the soil and damage the pipes.
• Plant only grass over and near your septic system to prevent roots from invading and damaging the pipes.

Finally, remember to keep up with routine maintenance and schedule periodic inspections. Septic tank pumping is typically recommended once every three to five years. If it has been over five years since the last pumping, then you may need a comprehensive septic tank cleaning to remove any gunk and muck in the components of the septic system.

Need a uniformed septic professional TODAY?

If you need emergency septic tank repair, then keep calm and call Septic Blue of Orlando to speak with a live member of our team. Our septic specialists are on standby to take your call at any time of the day.