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Sewage Emergency!
Power Outages:
- Reduce your water use to a minimum, especially if the system has a pump. If all the reserve storage inside the chamber is used, the waste pipes in your home can back-up. There is usually a one-day supply of emergency storage space available in the pump tank.
- Turn off the pump at the control panel.
- WARNING: If the power outage caused the pump to malfunction, do not enter the pump chamber. Gases inside pump chambers are toxic and can be fatal. It is best to call a certified septic system installer or maintenance service provider for service or repair.
- After power is restored, switch the pump on and let it run for a maximum of 5 minutes, and then turn it off. Repeat this manual switching every 6 hours until the effluent drops to the "OFF" level and the pump turns off by itself. If only a small amount of water was used, the pump may automatically turn off during the first switching.
- CAUTION: When repairing the pump, always turn off the power supply at the circuit breaker and unplug all power cord before handling the pump or floats
Flooding or Heavy Rain:
Flooding or even heavy rains can stress a septic system. Excess water can in the ground can make its way into tanks increasing the water load or can saturate a drainfeild causing the system to fail.
What to do during a major rain or flood:
- Eliminate all non-essential water use
- Reduce toilet flushing
- If your drainfield is covered with water, do not use the system until the water has receded
- Avoid contact with sewage if there is a sewage back-up. Contaminated water can cause disease
Call an OSS (on-site sewage) professional immediately if you notice any of these problems:
- Water on the drainfield that does not subside after the rain stops
- A bad odor/sewage smells
- Wastewater backs up into house
- Slow running drains, especially after laundry loads
- Sewage surfacing anywhere
Typical winter rains and even additional seasonal water use add extra stress to septic systems that may lead to premature system failure or costly repairs. A well-maintained septic system is better able to withstand the stresses of heavy rains or flooding. Be sure to properly maintain your system - find out by clicking here.
Red Light Flashing/Buzzer Sounding
This indicator light and buzzer lets you, as the owner, know that there is a problem with your system. It is important to contact a professional as soon as possible. The indidcator could mean high water within the tank, obstructions, failing pumps, drainage components in distress and other problems.
Like the "check engine" light in your care, the longer you delay getting the problem fixed the more it could cost to repair. Getting some of these problems fixed quickly could save your system from failing.
For a list of professional providers, click on "Licensed Service Providers" over on the left toolbar.
Other resources:
What To Do After the Flood - EPA website
Cleaning Up a Sewage Spill - Washington State DOH
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