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If You're System is Failing


Signs that your system is failing

Sewage backup in drains or toilets.

Slow flushing toilets.

Liquid seeping along the surface of the ground near the septic system. It may or may not have an odor associated with it.

Lush green grass over the absorption field, even during dry weather. Often, this indicates that an excessive amount of liquid from the system is moving up through the soil, instead of downward, as it should. While some upward movement of liquid from the absorption field is good, too much could indicate major problems.

Build-up of aquatic weeds or algae in lakes or ponds adjacent to your home. This may indicate that nutrient-rich septic system waste is leaching into the surface water.

Unpleasant odors around your house. Often, an improperly vented plumbing system or a failing septic system causes a build-up of disagreeable odors around the home.

What to do if your system is failing

If your system exhibits one or more of the failure indicators, contact your county health official for assistance in assessing the situation. Often times the system may be able to be repaired without complete replacements. Keep pets and children away from the failure and limit water use until repairs can be made. If a new system or repairs are needed, a permit is often required from your local health department.

If Your System Is Failing?

Last Updated: 8/31/01

Please address all comments and suggestions about the contents of this Web page to rougeweb@co.wayne.mi.us.

The Rouge River National Wet Weather Demonstration Project is funded, in part, by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants #XP995743-01, -02, -03, -04, -05, -06, -07 and C-264000-01.