Why Abandoned Septic Systems Are Dangerous

If you abandon your septic system, it can harbor harmful pathogens, bacteria, and viruses that may leak into surrounding soil and water. These microorganisms can cause illnesses such as gastrointestinal infections, skin rashes, or more severe health issues. By working with a reputable septic company, you don’t have to worry about these hazards.

Environmental Contamination

Another reason you shouldn’t abandon your wastewater treatment system is to avoid environmental pollution, especially in rural and suburban areas. Even if you recently scheduled a complete septic tank installation, these systems degrade because of various reasons, allowing untreated wastewater to seep into the ground and contaminate nearby water sources. Regular maintenance inspections, such as septic tank pumping, allow you to detect the pollution before it harms the local ecosystem.

If there’s runoff from your system containing nitrogen and phosphorus, these nutrients will promote algae growth in water bodies and harm aquatic life. The environmental damage caused by neglecting routine septic tank repair and maintenance is long-lasting and difficult to reverse if you don’t act quickly.

Signs of an Abandoned Septic System

Now that you know the potential environmental and safety hazards associated with neglecting a wastewater treatment system, let’s look at the signs your unit needs attention.

Unusual Odors

One of the first signs of an abandoned or malfunctioning unit is foul odors near the property. These odors often resembling rotten eggs or sewage, and result from the release of gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide. If you notice persistent unpleasant smells outdoors, especially after rainfall, it might be time to for a professional septic tank cleaning session. This will allow the plumbing team to inspect, diagnose, and address underlying issues.

Soggy or Sunken Areas in the Yard

Another telltale sign is soggy, or sunken areas in your yard. If you notice these signs in locations where the ground should be dry, you are dealing with leaks or internal collapses in the tank or drain field. The excess moisture can also cause rapid weed or grass growth in those areas, making them stand out from the rest of the yard. Even if you appreciate a lush yard, overlooking septic tank pumping and care can cause further damage.

Structural Remnants

If you have an old home, you may find unusual concrete lids, pipes, or tanks partially exposed above ground. These remnants are often clues that a wastewater treatment system was installed and abandoned in the past. They pose physical hazards and may require an assessment from a reputable septic company for removal or repair.

Abandoned septic systems are an eyesore and pose potential health and environmental hazards. If you recognize the signs of an abandoned system, contact Rooter Man Plumbing to investigate and address them responsibly. We provide different services, including septic tank cleaning to protect your health and the environment, and ensure your property remains safe for years.