Leach Field Failure

Possible Signs Of Leach Field Failure

Septic systems are an effective method to treat wastewater, but after so many years of use the leach field is susceptible to failure. Once a failure occurs the septic system will stop processing wastewater properly. If a homeowner suspects that their leach field may be in a state of failure there are a few indicators that may help confirm that suspicion. The indicators discussed in this article are only a few of many that can identify a failed leach field, which is why it is important for homeowners to contact a professional to inspect the septic system if there are concerns.


The easiest indicator of a failing leach field is a foul odor being emitted from the field. Along with an odor, wastewater could be surfacing and pooling on top of the soil. If these indicators are observed then the soil is no longer able to absorb and treat wastewater, which causes the effluent to build up and eventually pool on the surface. If this has occurred, the water that has surfaced contains harmful pathogens and requires immediate attention from a septic professional.

Another way to determine if a leach field has failed is to open the inspection ports and inspect the inside. This inspection can only be performed on some leach fields, as not all systems have inspection ports, however, the ports allow a visual inside the leach field system. The ports are made from two inch to four inch pvc pipe. When looking down inside the ports there will either be standing water or soil will be visible. If the pipes show evidence of standing water, this could indicate the leach field can no longer process wastewater. If soil is visible in the inspection port then the leach field is operating normally. Inspection ports that have evidence of wastewater are not necessarily failing, it could also be that the wastewater recently entered the field and has not yet been processed by the soil. If the water remains over the course of several days, that is a stronger indicator of a field failure.

The last indicator that could mean a failed leach field is if wastewater is surfacing where the septic tank is or even backing up into the house. If wastewater is surfacing where the septic tank is installed a septic professional should be immediately contacted to remove the septic tank lids to identify the cause. It is not recommended for homeowners to remove their septic tank lids because dangerous gases are contained within the septic tank and poses a health risk. Only trained professionals should remove septic tank lids for further inspection. If wastewater is backing up into the home it could indicate that a leach field has failed and the wastewater has no where else to go but back into the house.

Septic Tank Full

Not all failing leach fields will exhibit the same signs of failure, and not all of the indicators discussed in this article necessarily mean a failed field. The goal of this article is to educate homeowners on possible issues they may be experiencing with their own septic system. Any concerns a homeowner has for their septic system should be evaluated by a licensed professional.

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