Rainy Season and Your Septic Tank

Summertime is synonymous with vacations and relaxation. But that’s not all it’s known for, at least not in South Florida. Here, summer is when hurricane season and rainy season overlap. We experience sudden storms, and lots of them.

South Florida gets about 70% of its annual rainfall between May and October. And that’s critical information for the millions of South Florida households that rely on septic tanks. Heavy rain can adversely impact a septic system.

When too much rain falls on the ground too quickly, it floods the soil around the drainfield and prevents water from flowing out of your septic system. With nowhere to go, the water eventually backs up into drains, toilets, and other parts of your home. It doesn’t just affect your household. A flooded drainfield can also lead to untreated sewage flowing into the groundwater and local streams, contaminating other water sources.

Here’s how to make sure your system continues working properly this summer.

• Septic problems can quickly escalate if your tank is not regularly and properly maintained. So, make sure your system is in good shape ahead of the season and have it pumped out of precaution. 

• Direct gutters and runoff water away from the drainfield to keep the ground from getting too soggy. 

• After a major rainstorm, the only way to ease pressure on the system is by using it less. So, try to reduce water usage.

• If the water does not recede after the rain stops, your toilet is gurgling, or you have standing water in your shower, there’s a chance your tank is full or not draining correctly. Make an appointment to have your tank inspected and serviced.

Don’t wait for a disaster to happen before calling a professional. Whatever the problem, Raider Rooter can help. We’ve been helping South Florida maintain and manage its plumbing since 1978. So, let us put our expertise to work for you. As always, whether you’re after tips and tricks for frequent plumbing problems or more extensive plumbing insight, be sure to consult our blog for thorough and helpful information.