What is an indication that a septic system may have failed?

The presence of surfacing effluent in the drain field is a clear and significant indication that a septic system may have failed. When a septic system operates properly, effluent is processed and absorbed by the soil in the drain field. However, if the system has failed, the effluent can become saturated and unable to be adequately absorbed, leading to it surfacing. This can result in pooled wastewater, which is not only a health hazard due to potential contamination but also signals that the system is overwhelmed and not functioning as it should. This phenomenon can arise from a variety of issues, such as a full system, blocked pipes, or soil saturation, all of which point to a critical failure that requires immediate attention.

Other indicators, like excessive greenery near the tank or unusual sounds from the tank, may suggest issues, but they don't provide the direct evidence of failure that surfacing effluent does. The presence of insects could also be a concern, as it might suggest moisture or decay, but it doesn’t definitively indicate a system failure. Hence, the visibility of effluent on the surface is the most reliable sign that there is a serious problem with the septic system.