No Leak Too Small, No Job Too Big
A septic system is something you don’t think about until there’s a problem, but when it fails, it can cause serious issues fast. At Alpha Plumbing, we provide thorough septic inspections to help you stay ahead of those problems.
Whether you’re buying a new home or just want to make sure your current system is in good shape, a proper inspection can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle.
A full septic inspection goes beyond a simple tank pump-out. We start by locating the system, checking the access points, and evaluating how well the system is handling current waste loads. We look at the condition of the tank itself, including baffles, walls, and any signs of structural damage or root intrusion.
We also examine the drain field for signs of poor absorption or backups. A healthy drain field should be dry at the surface, with no standing water or soggy areas. If we see anything that suggests the system is overloaded or not draining correctly, we flag that immediately.
Our team checks for proper function of the inlet and outlet pipes, any signs of backflow, and even inspects the flow from household drains to see if waste is moving efficiently. In many cases, we also use cameras to inspect lines feeding into or out of the tank if there’s reason to believe there’s a blockage or break underground.
During a typical inspection, we often find buildup inside the tank that needs pumping, minor root infiltration in the pipes, or signs that the system has been overloaded due to extra water usage or harsh chemicals. In some older systems, we find tanks that are starting to crack or separate, which can cause leaks into the surrounding soil.
Another frequent issue is damage to baffles or tees inside the tank, which can lead to solids moving into the drain field where they don’t belong. We also see drain fields that have become saturated or compacted due to surface runoff, heavy traffic, or improper design.
Catching these issues early makes all the difference. A timely repair or adjustment now can prevent you from needing a full replacement later.
Even before calling us out, there are a few things you can watch for that may indicate your septic system needs attention. Slow drains throughout the house, gurgling sounds from pipes, sewage smells near the tank or drain field, or wet patches in your yard can all be early signs.
If your toilets start to flush slowly or water backs up into the tub or sinks, that’s a red flag that something deeper in the system isn’t working right. In some cases, you might even see grass growing more quickly or more vibrantly above your drain field, which could mean liquid waste is surfacing.