Susan Lunt, Carolina Clear Coordinator and Water Resources Extension Associate
Heavy rains can saturate a septic drainfield and can cause your septic system to malfunction.
There are steps to take to help protect your septic system before, during, and after a flood. By keeping your septic system properly maintained, you are ultimately better protecting your system from the stresses of a flood. If you are currently experiencing a flood and there is standing water on your drainfield, make sure to limit all non-essential water use. Once floodwaters have receded, contact a septic system professional to help assess any damage and establish next steps.
When it rains, an overly saturated drainfield can cause your septic system to malfunction. It can cause your system to slow down or even stop the treatment process, which could result in your system backing up into your home. As a preventative measure, make sure that stormwater runoff from rain events or lawn irrigation is diverted away from your drainfield. Reduce the use of water-based appliances and reduce shower time during periods of heavy rain. Also, make sure to not have your system pumped during or just after heavy rain events; as pumping out an underground tank submerged in saturated soil can cause it to float.
Depending on the type of system you have, it may or may not continue to work if the power goes out. If your system depends on electricity to operate, it will not be able to function properly if you experience an outage. On the other hand, gravity-based systems should operate normally. If your system is designed with electrical components, it is important to limit your water use during a power outage and you may wish to purchase a backup generator.
Whether you’ve recently experienced a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake or some other type of natural disaster, make sure to have your system inspected by a professional to ensure it is functioning properly.
RESOURCES:
- Clemson Extension Be Septic Safe Website
- SC
Department of Environmental Services Flooding – What to Do website
- Additional tips for homeowners who have experienced flooding and want to ensure their septic system is still functioning properly.
- SC
Department of Environmental Services Find a Septic Contractor page
- An interactive map to search for septic system contractors on their website.
- NEHA’s
Guidance for Septic Systems Before, During, and After a Flood
- Steps homeowners can take to protect their septic system and health related to flooding.
- NEHA’s
Guidance for Septic Systems Before, During and After a Power Outage
- This website provides homeowners with steps that should be taken related to power outages.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
