Do you have a septic system in your home? Then, the next thing you should know is how important regular inspections are. To prevent major hassles like system failures, backups, and more.

Many homeowners are not very familiar with septic systems. That’s why they don’t realize that they should conduct professional septic inspection.

But the point is how to test a septic system.

A thorough septic system inspection assesses all components of your septic system. Your certified inspectors will locate your septic tank for a meticulous inspection. They’ll measure the sludge or scum levels. Also, check for any signs of damage or issues, like backups. We’ll shortly discuss in detail how to test a septic system.

Pro-Spect will also take you through the benefits, due to which you should consider getting septic inspections. This may include preventing system failures, ensuring proper functioning, and more. So getting started, let’s discuss;

How To Test a Septic System

A septic inspection can be subject to several issues without your notice. That’s why septic inspections are important in this regard. To test a septic tank, your inspectors will go through a step-by-step process.

From locating and assessing the septic tank to checking for signs of backups, sludge, and scum levels, they’ll do it all. They can also perform dye tests. Let’s discuss the process of professional septic inspection in detail.

Locate the Septic Tank

The inspectors start off by identifying your septic tank. Mostly, these tanks are buried underground, and their access point is marked by a manhole cover. That’s why it gets hard when you try to find it on your own. Meanwhile, your professional inspectors use definite ways to locate your septic tank.

Inspect the Tank

Once the inspectors locate the tank, they will inspect its physical condition. And look for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. They’ll also check the tank’s lid to ensure it’s highly sealed and intact.

That is because, you know, a damaged tank or lid can let contaminants enter your system. Which can lead to potential issues.

Measure Sludge and Scum Levels

The septic inspectors will use cutting-edge technology and equipment to measure sludge and scum levels. Including a septic tank measuring stick or a DIY probe. They would assess your septic tank for excessive sludge or scum. And confirm whether it needs pumping or not. When you consider regular pumping, you prevent the buildup of solids. That can clog your drain field and compromise the system’s efficiency.

Check for Signs of Backups

Your home inspectors will look for any signs of sewage backups. This includes slow-draining sinks, toilets, or gurgling sounds in the plumbing. These are the signs that could also indicate a blockage in your septic system. Showing the need for immediate attention.

Perform A Dye Test

It’s a simple but effective method to highlight any potential leaks in your septic system. It can be done by yourself as well. You just need to place a water-soluble dye or colored toilet bowl cleaner in your toilet and flush it.

If the dye appears in the drain field or other areas outside the tank, it may signal a leak. From there, you will need a professional septic inspection for further steps.

Check The Drain Field

Your inspectors will check your drain field for any signs of standing water, unusual odors, or lush vegetation. These are the alarming red flags that show drainage issues or a failing septic system. Before that happens, it’s important you stay ahead of time. And identify and address septic problems in the drain field instantly. To prevent any damage from spreading further.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Although to keep a regular check on your septic system, you can try out DIY tests. They work for a short and quick assessment of your septic tank. But you will still need a professional septic inspection eventually.

The inspectors we recommend you should look for qualified and professional septic inspectors. To conduct a more comprehensive assessment. Those inspectors have the expertise and tools to perform in-depth examinations. And identify potential issues that are not detected during DIY tests.

Should You Get a Septic Inspection When Buying a House

When you are out to buy a home with a septic system, you must consider getting a septic inspection. As a part of due diligence. It also helps you prevent any unexpected and costly septic system issues. Let’s explore some of the many benefits of septic inspection when buying a house.

Prevent System Failures

A septic inspection will reveal any issues or defects with your septic system. Such as cracks, leaks, blockages, root intrusion, and more. They will find any septic problems so you can address them before locking in a deal. This saves your septic unit from major failures or hefty repair costs. When you already know the condition of your septic system ahead of time, you can negotiate better. Or set a budget aside.

Ensure Proper Functioning

An inspection determines if the septic system is working properly. It will uncover any functionality issues of your septic system. That may impact its ability to treat wastewater adequately. And when you identify any deficiencies ahead of time, it enables you to determine if repairs are needed. To bring the system up to standards.

Extend System Lifespan

Inspections often detect minor wear and tear on septic components. That can turn into larger problems if you leave them unaddressed. By catching these issues early, you can make any needful repairs. To extend the lifespan of your entire system.

Save Money In The Long Run

While an inspection is an upfront cost, but when you identify issues before buying a home. You can save money in the long run. It prevents you from expensive hidden problems. The cost of repairs or even a full system replacement after the fact can be hefty.

The Bottom Line

Getting a septic inspection provides valuable insight into the condition of your septic system. And any steps needed to ensure proper function. It gives you information that could be your deal breakers. Which means, you can avoid any hefty and unwanted septic surprises by conducting thorough septic inspections. We discussed in detail how to test a septic system. And also discussed the benefits of getting septic inspections. Scroll through our blog section to learn more about inspections.