Hurricane season is in full swing! We often prepare our homes, vehicles, and other valuable items against the threat of hurricanes, but what about your septic system? Your septic system is one of the more expensive parts of homeownership. Considering ways to protect it during hurricane or other storm damage is important to avoid unnecessary damage and costs. It is always best to prepare prior to heavy summer rains and hurricane season, but better late than never.
How can you protect your septic system against hurricane damage?
Pay attention to flood areas in your yard. If your tank is above ground, this may be of no concern. Tanks that are under level ground may be at risk for standing water in the event of excessive rain. Sever flooding is of most concern, but even highly saturated soil can hinder septic systems from processing contaminants correctly. If you notice water accumulating near the site of your septic tank, be sure to take measures to divert any potential flood water away from it. Simply digging trenches or installing rain barriers to allow water to flow more freely away for the area may work. If flooding in the area of your septic tank is sever, it may be best to contact a landscaping company or other experts on how to mitigate flooding in your yard.
Remove dead trees. Hurricanes bring the threat of heavy rain and excessive wind. Both of these factors can contribute greatly to downing trees. Assess the area around your septic system for any dead or rotting trees. Remove any problems trees that may potentially impact your septic system in the event they fall onto your septic tank or drain field.
Consider a generator. Many homeowners in Florida opt for generators to keep their homes powered incase they are without power for an extended period of time. This is especially important if your septic tank runs off of an electric pump. If you do not own a generator, be mindful of how much water you are using during any extended periods of power outages. If the system is overused without power to the pump you may experience
What should you do if your septic system is damaged by a hurricane or storm?
Be careful of standing water. If your septic tank has flooded due to a hurricane or storm, be cautious of standing water in the vicinity of your septic tank and drain field. Septic systems contain bacteria that can cause severe illness. Be sure to wash your hands and all items that come into contact with the water thoroughly to prevent contamination. The best way to sanitize items that may have been affected is to mix a bleach-water solution: 1/2 cup bleach to one gallon of water.
Fallen trees over septic system require an inspection. If you noticed downed trees over your septic tank or drain field after a hurricane or storm, it is always best to have your septic system inspected. Best case scenario is an inspection shows there is no damage to your septic system. Worst case scenario, you don't get potential damage inspected and end up with even bigger problems months down the road. Always err on the side of caution!
Symptoms inside your home require a professional. If you notice any of the tell-tale signs of sick septic system inside your home, call a professional right away! Gurgling in drains, backups, and foul odors coming from your plumbing are all signs that your tank is on the outs. Blackwater Septic Service can inspect your septic tank and drain field after a storm to determine the problem and offer solutions!
Hurricane preparation is a way of life in our area. There are things you can do as a homeowner to protect the integrity of your septic system before hurricanes. The best way to ensure the life of your septic system is through proper maintenance. When regularly maintained with regular pump-outs and inspections every 3-5 years, your septic system will function properly for years to come. Combining proper maintenance and hurricane prep to reduce potential storm damage to your septic system is the best way to go! Blackwater Septic Service is certified in the state of Florida for septic tank maintenance, new tank installations, and septic system repairs. We're only a phone call away, even in storm emergencies. Call us today at 850-509-3596 to schedule your next maintenance pump-out and inspection so we can identify issues BEFORE a hurricane strikes!