How Do You Fix a Clogged Drain Field?

Drain fields are designed to let liquid from the septic tank be absorbed into the ground. The process allows solids in waste water to dissolve and break down in the tank, while the liquid exits from the tank through pipes reaching the drain field. Here, water leaves the pipes and enters the ground. Over time, the drain field can become damaged or clogged due to buildup of waste material. A full septic tank can sometimes overflow allowing solid waste and sludge to gain entry into the drain field. A clogged drain field cannot be snaked out and cleared like a regular drain pipe, however,  there are some alternative steps that can be made to resolve the trouble:

• Get the help of bacteria- A septic system bacteria packet can help clean-out the drain field. Essentially the bacteria packet is flushed down the toilet to allow it to travel through the entire septic system arriving at the drain field. Once in the field the bacteria begins to break down and consume all solid waste, leaving it unclogged. Only one packet should be used every month.
•  Use less water- Less water use equivalates to less waste. Reducing waste water gives the septic tank more time to treat solid waste, thus emerging a clearer drain field and no back-up from solid material.
• Do not use strong chemicals- Harsh chemicals interfere with the bacteria in the septic tank that is dissolving the waste, slowing down filtration. Removal of powerful chemicals will allow natural bacteria to stay active and alive thus cleaning the field.
• Throw your trash in a garbage can- Some people have the tendency of throwing their garbage into their plumbing system mainly down the garbage disposal. A garbage disposal’s intended purpose is not an alternative trash system, however, it allows individuals who accidentally let food down their kitchen drain help to not cause a clog. Food is often poured down the sink and toilet paper is flushed down the toilet. All these items take longer to dismantle and can sneak through tank pipes causing clogging.

Can you replace your own drain field?

Hypothetical speaking, yes you can replace your own drain field but it is unrealistic. A drain field replacement requires a large labor force, construction vehicles and tools, city permits and ecosystem repair. Trying to do all this work single-handedly is nearly impossible and would take months to complete. A professional contractor is required for the accomplishment of the job.

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