Septic tanks, by nature of their function, typically have an odor. However, that odor is usually contained and unless the tank is exposed to the elements, those in the general radius are not affected. So, when the tank is covered but smelly, this indicates a problem. Today we will explore what makes septic tanks smell, how to fix the odor, and how a vacuum truck service can help. Septic tanks, by nature of their function, typically have an odor. However, that odor is usually contained and unless the tank is exposed to the elements, those in the general radius are not affected. So, when the tank is covered but smelly, this indicates a problem. Today we will explore what makes septic tanks smell, how to fix the odor, and how a vacuum truck service can help.
What is a Septic Tank?
A septic tank is a large underground container used for the treatment of sewage and wastewater. It is typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic, and it separates the solids from liquids in the wastewater. The solid waste settles at the bottom of the tank and is later decomposed by bacteria, while the liquid waste flows out of the tank into a drain field for further treatment. Septic tanks are commonly used in areas where there are no municipal sewer systems available.
What Makes Septic Tanks Smell?
It’s important to note that if you notice any persistent odor from your septic tank or drain field, you should contact a professional for an inspection as soon as possible.
Septic tanks can develop a strong odor for several reasons, including:
- Lack of Maintenance: If a septic tank is not pumped and cleaned regularly, it can accumulate solid waste and sludge, which produces odors.
- Clogs in Drainage Field: When the drainage field becomes clogged with debris or soil, it can cause wastewater to back up into the septic tank, which leads to bad smells.
- Cracks or Leaks: Cracks in the septic tank or its pipes can allow gases to escape and cause unpleasant odors to permeate the area around the tank.
- Overuse of Household Cleaners: Using too much bleach and other harsh chemicals can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the septic system, leading to foul odors.
- Old Age: With time, septic tanks can deteriorate and corrode, allowing gases to leak out and create strong odors.
How to Fix the Foul Odors
There are several ways to fix foul odors coming from a septic tank, depending on the cause of the problem. Here are some solutions:
- Regular Maintenance: The most effective way to prevent unpleasant odors is to have the septic tank pumped and cleaned regularly. This will remove any accumulated solid waste or sludge that may be causing the odor.
- Use of Bacteria Additives: Adding bacteria-based additives to your septic system can help break down the solid waste and reduce foul odors. These additives can be purchased at most hardware stores.
- Repair Cracks or Leaks: If there are cracks or leaks in the septic tank or its pipes, it’s important to have them repaired as soon as possible by a professional.
- Avoid Overuse of Household Cleaners: Using too much bleach and other harsh chemicals can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the septic system, leading to foul odors. Consider switching to natural cleaning products instead.
- Install an Odor Filter: An odor filter can be installed on the vent pipe of your septic system to capture any gases before they escape into the air.
When to Call the Professionals
It’s best to call a professional if you notice persistent odors coming from your septic tank or drain field. There are several reasons why you should seek the help of a professional:
- Safety: Septic tanks emit gases such as methane, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide, which can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities. A professional will have the proper equipment and training to safely inspect and repair your septic system.
- Accurate Diagnosis: A professional will be able to accurately diagnose the cause of the odor and recommend the appropriate solution. This is important because different problems require different solutions, and attempting to fix the problem yourself without proper knowledge can lead to further damage.
- Experience: A professional has experience working with septic systems and will know how to properly handle any issues that arise during an inspection or repair.
- Prevention of Future Problems: Regular maintenance by a professional can prevent future problems from occurring and ensure that your septic system is working efficiently.
How Drane Ranger can Help
Drane Ranger is a professional septic tank service provider that offers a wide range of services to help with septic tank issues, including odors. We are happy to help with all your industrial and residential septic tank needs.
We can pump out the contents of your septic tank, removing any accumulated solids and sludge that may be causing odors or backups. We also do a thorough inspection of your entire septic system to identify any problems, such as leaks or cracks in the tank or pipes that could lead to serious issues down the line. If there are any issues identified during an inspection, we can provide repairs and maintenance services to fix the problem and help prevent future ones from occurring.
In addition to septic tanks, we offer grease trap cleaning services for commercial kitchens to prevent clogs and backups and emergency services for situations such as overflowing tanks or other urgent septic system issues.
Overall our professional expertise and range of services make us a reliable choice for anyone experiencing septic tank issues or in need of regular septic preventative maintenance.
Contact Drane Ranger Today
Drane Ranger has been providing high-quality septic tank services since 1985. Our experienced crew safely operates our top-of-the-line equipment to ensure your project is completed quickly and efficiently with maximum safety standards. We also offer preventative maintenance services to help keep your system running smoothly for years to come.
Our clients rely on us for timely, dependable, and cost-effective solutions that fit their needs—and guarantee quality results every time. From initial contact through job completion, our team will work hard to meet all of your requirements from start to finish.
Contact Drane Ranger today for more information about our industrial and residential vacuum truck services.