The local septic systems and community wastewater systems are very important in their role in sanitation and disease prevention.
An adequately maintained and constructed septic system can effectively endure the stresses of heavy rains and flooding. However, standard inspection should be performed from time to time to make sure that it is properly functioning.
The soil in the ground can become highly saturated by heavy rains and floods, and hinder the proper functioning of the system. In such situations, a septic tank can crumple or float out of its position. To decipher whether your septic system is not working adequately you should look for the following signs:
• Draining slows in sinks
• Slow draining of toilets
• Overflowing floor drains
• Appearance of sewage outside the home
Steps to be taken before an Emergency
You need to prepare your septic system from floods, hurricanes, and/or earthquakes before any such situation arises are:
• The manhole and inspection ports should be sealed to prevent excess water to flow out of the septic tank
• Keep your septic tank is at least half full. Ensuring this will prevent it from collapsing or floating
• If your septic system uses electricity for functioning:
o Before the area gets flooded switch off the pump at the circuit box
o All electrical connections should be sealed and water proofed to prevent electrical shock as well as any damage to pumps, wiring, and the whole electrical system
During the Emergency
Cut down the water usage by controlling toilet flushing, dishwashing, and showering during the emergency. Serious flooding can place drinking water wells at higher risk for becoming contaminated by the floodwater that could contain sewage. Keep away from getting in touch with any standing water that could probably have sewage.
After the Emergency Caution
• Never drink well water if you doubt about its safety. Use only safe water supply such as bottled or treated water.
• There is all the chance that the floodwater may have sewage contents.
Precautions to be taken related to septic systems are:
• Do not touch any septic system electrical connections until they are completely dry and clean.
• Pumping out the septic tank more than halfway can make the tank float out from its place.
• Minimize all unnecessary water usage.
• Minimize flushing toilets or use a temporary toilet.
Lastly, consult your area septic system Bryan professionals to come for inspection and service.