Are you wondering, “Why is my septic alarm going off?” If you’re hearing the beeping, buzzing, or high-pitched tone of your septic alarm, it might indicate the system needs immediate attention. Read here to learn why a septic alarm might be triggered and what to do when in response.
Without proper maintenance, septic systems are likely to develop problems such as frequent clogs, backups, and overflow. Even with routine maintenance, outstanding circumstances such as severe weather can cause septic problems that may trigger your septic alarm. If your septic alarm has begun to buzz, beep, or emit a continuous, high-pitched tone, “Why is my septic alarm going off?” is likely the first question to follow. The pros from Acme share what might cause a septic alarm to go off, and what you can do when it does.
Types Of Systems With Septic Alarms
Not all septic systems come equipped with alarms. If your septic system does come with an alarm, you likely have one of the following types:
Pumped (pressure distribution) septic system
Aerobic treatment unit (ATU)
Mound septic system
Sand filter septic system
These types of septic systems generally have unique characteristics, such as the advanced treatment processes used by aerobic treatment units, or are installed on land that lies below the level of the septic drain field, as would be the case with a mound system.
Because of the number of problems that can occur when a septic tank is overloaded, hasn’t been pumped in a while, or when flooding hits, installing a septic alarm is an excellent preventative measure that every septic owner should consider. Let’s take a look at some of the main culprits that lead septic owners to ask, “Why is my septic alarm going off?”
High Water Levels
Your septic tank must be able to process the amount of wastewater that enters it. If water levels become too high, which can be the result of high water usage from appliances such as dishwashers, laundry machines, and long showers, your septic alarm may begin to sound.
High water levels may also lead to drain field problems, such as blockages, clogs, or saturation, which may trigger your septic alarm.
Pump Failures
You might have an effluent pump installed for a few reasons. These include:
When your septic tank is positioned lower than your drain field
To evenly distribute effluent (wastewater produced by your septic tank)
To improve overall system efficiency
You have an alternative system, such as an ATU
These devices are built with mechanical and electrical components. If these components fail, wastewater will not be able to reach your drain field properly, and your septic alarm should be triggered.
Tank Or System Clogs
With regular maintenance, clogs and backups may be avoided, but there are still circumstances when they can occur, such as tree root infiltration, solids or grease blocking pipes, or waste buildup from neglecting pump-outs.
If any component of your septic system is blocked, clogged, or not able to process a high volume of waste, you may soon be asking, “Why is my septic alarm going off?” To prevent the problems that lead to tank or system clogs, septic owners should not flush any items that their septic tank cannot break down.
Your Septic Alarm Is Going Off – What’s Next?
First, silence your alarm. Continuous noises and flashing lights probably won’t help you any when you’re trying to determine the cause of the tripped alarm. Most septic alarms have a button that will allow you to temporarily mute the noise while you investigate. Once the alarm is silenced, here are a few steps you can take to assess the situation and prevent potential damage:
Reduce water usage – Don’t use any appliances that require a lot of water, and wait to run the shower.
Check the breaker box – Power outages can sometimes trigger septic alarms. If this is the case, resetting the tripped breaker may be the only thing you need to do.
Inspect for signs of septic malfunction – Standing water around your septic tank or over your drain field, or foul odors, can indicate there is an issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.
Contact a septic service company – If you find yourself facing a septic problem, don’t try to DIY. Contact a pro from Acme!
If You See, Hear, And Smell The Signs
If you’re wondering, “Why is my septic alarm going off?” and noticing other signs of a septic issue, or if you’d simply feel more at ease having a professional inspect your system, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Contact us for septic repair, inspection, and more, today.
