As a homeowner you have plenty of items on your to-do list, but if septic tank maintenance isn't high on that list, it should be. Your septic system is one of the largest systems in your home and it can have a big impact on your family's comfort and health. Ignoring your septic tank just isn't an option. According to Today's Homeowner, a clog can increase the cost of your septic services by as much as $1,700. Seemingly small septic tank issues can quickly grow into big expensive problems when left ignored. Let's look at some good reasons to pay attention to your septic tank needs.

1. Slow Drains

When septic tanks aren't properly cared for, it can lead to slow-moving drains. This is caused by the main lines leading away from your home backing up. This happens when the septic holding tank has become full of solid waste and wastewater. The water will always follow the path of least resistance, and sometimes that means moving backward. Slow-moving drains will lead to backed-up tubs, overflowing toilets, and sinks that won't drain. This can cause huge inconvenience for your family.

2. Bad Smells

A poorly maintained septic tank can also lead to bad smells. These smells might start out in your yard, but eventually, if you continue to ignore your septic tank service needs, these smells will start to show up in the house as well. This is a result of solid waste collecting in the tank and wastewater spilling out under the surface of the ground. If enough of this wastewater spills out, the odor will start to rise up through the grass and fill your yard with a bad odor. When wastewater backs up into your home, those bad odors will find their way into your house. This can all be avoided if you call a reliable septic tank company to help you with your service.

3. Overflow

Septic tank overflow happens when the tank is too full of solid waste, or when the field lines aren't draining properly away from the home. The overflow can even rise above the surface of the ground, creating puddles of smelly wastewater in your yard. Not only is this gross and unsightly, but it's also illegal. The EPA and your community health department hold property owners responsible for properly maintaining their septic systems. If you fail to do this and wastewater collects on your property, you could be fined. A septic tank company can help you solve this issue.

4. Overgrown Grass

Another reason you should never avoid your septic tank service is because it can start to affect your landscaping. The area above and around your septic tank will start to develop an overgrowth of grass. Although this grass may look lush and green, this isn't the way you want to get a lush green yard. This grass will also be moist and smelly.

5. Septic Alarms

Some septic systems are equipped with alarms that will sound if the water levels in the tank are too high. This helps to alert homeowners that it's time to have a septic company come clean out and service the system. These alarms should not be ignored, as they're a sign of serious issues.

6. Water Contamination

If you allow septic tank issues to continue without service, you could ultimately cause a water contamination issue in your area. A septic system operates on a system of drainage lines. When functioning properly, these drainage lines will move waste water away from the property at a rate that can be naturally absorbed by the earth. When the area is overrun with too much wastewater due to faulty septic systems, this system doesn't work and water in the area could get contaminated.

7. Decreased Home Value

If you have any intention of selling your home someday, you need to keep major systems in good working order. If you fail to do this, it could negatively impact the price you can get for your home when you sell it. A septic tank company can ensure your tank is running as intended.

These are just a few reasons why you shouldn't put off septic tank service. If you're looking for reliable septic tank professionals, please call ProSeptic today. We are here for your septic tank needs.