Septic Tank Drain Field Repair Guide: Clog Failure

A septic tank in the ground.

If you have a clog in your septic field you need to perform a drain field repair. A drain field repair to unclog the septic tank will help restore it to its proper working condition. To repair the septic drain field you will need to unclog the septic tank, as well as take corrective steps to prevent the septic drain field from becoming clogged again. A septic drain field that goes untreated for a number of years or has certain types of materials like grease and oil constantly flushed into it will eventually clog. A clogged septic tank will back up into the home and cause a mess.

Step 1 - Purchase a Declogger for the Septic Drain Field Tank

The septic tank will need to be unclogged in order to eliminate the failure of the septic drain field. The septic tank clog failure can be caused by a variety of issues including:

  • a build up of sludge
  • a build up of oil and grease
  • improper installation of the septic tank

The first two issues can be addressed by purchasing a solvent that is designed to unclog the septic tank. This unclogging action will remove the residue that is responsible for the clog, namely grease, oil, and other insoluble material that has been placed into the septic system.

Step 2 - Run a Snake through the Toilet

Another way to address the clog failure of your septic tank is by running a snake through the plumbing. A toilet snake can unclog the plumbing and septic drain as well as clear the way for a septic tank cleaning company to come in and empty the septic tank for you. You should run the snake through the toilet plumbing on a regular basis, at least once every couple of months.

Step 3 - Stop Pouring Grease and Oil into the Septic System

A septic tank.

Once way to address your clog failure is by not pouring oil, grease, and other materials that will cause sludge build up and result in the septic system becoming clogged. Oil and grease from the household does not break down in the septic system in the same way that human waste material does. This results in the oil and grease forming into a sludge like material that leaves deposits throughout the entire septic system. As these deposits develop and accumulate they are prone to cause the system to fail by clogging the intake pipes to the septic tank.

By not introducing insoluble materials into your septic system you will reduce the possibility of your septic drain field tank failing as a result of a persistent clog problem.

Step 4 - Set a Maintenance Schedule

You need to establish a regular maintenance schedule for your septic system in order to prevent the build-up of grease, sludge, and other materials that will lead to your septic system clogging.