Nothing ruins a shower quite like a clogged tub. Now you’re stuck standing in a pool of murky water wondering how to tackle the issue. Sometimes, a backed up septic tank can create problems that are mistaken for a clogged drain. Learn how to tell the difference between a clogged bathtub and a clogged septic tank so you can get back to enjoying your shower.
What happens when the septic tank backs up?
All the wastewater from your home is sent to your septic tank which in turn travels into the secondary treatment. If the pipe leading into the secondary treatment becomes clogged or the pump which transfers the effluent fails, the system will overfill. Eventually, this water will back up into the pipe leading to your house. As the water fills the main line, fixtures in the house lose their ability to drain properly.
How can you tell the septic tank is clogged?
The biggest indication that the problem is the sewage treatment system is if there is pooling water in the area. You may also start to notice multiple drains are clogged and making strange noises like gurgling sounds. To help diagnosis the issue look for the following indicators:
- Pooling around septic lid
- Swampy conditions over the secondary treatment
- Foul odors
How to clear the clogged drain
If the septic tank is the culprit, you’ll need to contact a technician to fix it. If it’s an issue with the drain and not the septic tank, there are some ways you can try unclogging it yourself:
- Plunger Method
- Remove the pop-up stopper if the tub has one.
- Rub petroleum jelly along the lip of the plunger.
- Run water into the tub and plunge firmly up and down several times.
- Lift the plunger and see if the water drains freely.
- Plumbing Snake Method
- Remove the pop-up stopper if the tub has one.
- Feed the cable down the drain until you reach the clog.
- Rotate the crank to spin the cable and loosen the obstruction.
- Continue feeding the cable as far as it will go.
- Once you think the clog is clear, wind the cable back up.
Contact Supeck Septic Services
Think you may be dealing with a clogged septic tank? Supeck Septic Services provides exceptional customer care with licensed technicians to clean and service your septic system. Contact us at (888) 725-0209 to schedule a visit.