Spring Showers Bring Septic System Woes: 5 Common Problems and How to Prevent Them

5 Common Spring Septic System Problems and How to Prevent Them

Have you looked around? Grass is starting to pop through the ground and floors are even starting to bloom. Spring is a time of renewal and growth, but for homeowners with septic systems, it can also bring a host of problems. As the snow melts and the ground thaws, spring rains can saturate the soil and put a tremendous strain on septic systems. To help prepare you for this change in season, we've come up with the five common spring septic system problems as well as tips on how to prevent them.


  1. Clogged Drainfield: Spring rains can cause the soil around your septic system's drainfield to become saturated, which can lead to clogs and backups. To prevent this problem, make sure your gutters are clear of debris and direct rainwater away from your drainfield. Also, avoid planting trees or shrubs near your drainfield, as their roots can damage the pipes and clog the soil 
  2. Overloaded Septic Tank: Spring cleaning is a great way to refresh your home, but be careful not to overload your septic tank in the process. Flushing excessive amounts of cleaning chemicals, disinfectants, or other harsh products down the drain can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your tank and lead to clogs and backups. Instead, use natural or eco-friendly cleaning products and space out your deep cleaning tasks over time.
  3. Invasive Roots: As the ground thaws, tree and plant roots can start to grow aggressively and invade your septic system. This can cause damage to the pipes and prevent proper drainage. To prevent this problem, regularly trim trees and shrubs near your septic system and avoid planting new ones too close.
  4. Tank Overflow: Heavy spring rains can overwhelm your septic system's capacity and cause the tank to overflow. To prevent this problem, have your tank pumped regularly and avoid overusing water during rainy periods. Fixing leaky faucets, installing low-flow showerheads, and upgrading to efficient appliances can also help reduce water usage.
  5. Frozen Pipes: Spring is not immune to freezing temperatures, and frozen pipes can be a big problem for septic systems. To prevent this problem, make sure your pipes are properly insulated and consider installing heating cables or pads to keep them warm. Also, avoid using hot water excessively, as it can cause pipes to expand and contract, leading to cracks and leaks.


Spring is an absolutely beautiful time of year, but it can also bring challenges for homeowners with septic systems. By following these simple steps, you can prevent common spring septic system problems and ensure your septic system operates smoothly throughout the season. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help identify potential problems before they become major issues. If you're unsure about the condition of your septic system, contact Excavating New Jersey LLC for advice and assistance. We offer upfront, flat-rate pricing and for a limited time, you can receive $1000 off of a new septic system.

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