How To Increase Septic Tank Absorbing Capacity: Simple Fixes That Work

While walking in your yard, you may notice an unpleasant smell or pooling water issue.

Your septic tank's poor absorption capacity could cause an unpleasant smell. You might want to know how to increase its capacity to ensure smooth flow. 

Dealing with septic system problems is no fun.

Understanding the root cause is essential to maintain a functional process inside the tank.

Several reasons indicate that your septic tank is not performing well, such as soil compaction, clogged drain fields, or excessive water usage. 

This guide provides practical tips on how to boost your septic tank's absorbing power. Let’s get your system back on track.

Understanding Septic Tank Absorption Capacity

The term absorption capacity in a septic tank pertains to how well the system receives and diffuses liquid waste into the surrounding earth.

This efficiency depends on the soil absorption system and the topography of the drain field.

Effective use of the systems requires regular maintenance, such as pumping, mindful use of water, and protection from nonbiodegradables.

Knowing what a septic tank does and how it works can help you make better management decisions that protect your property and the environment.

Signs Your Septic Tank Has Poor Absorption

While you know your septic system is not working well, you may wonder what signs indicate poor absorption.

• Slow Drains: If you notice your sinks, shower, or toilet water draining slowly, your system is struggling to absorb wastewater. Be sure to look into it without any delays.

  
  

• Gurgling Sounds: If you notice unusual sounds from your plumbing, the air is trapped due to poor drainage, which can also cause improper absorption.

  
  

• Foul Odors: If you notice a continuous sewage smell while standing in the yard or sitting inside your home, it means that wastewater is not adequately absorbed and treated, which can impact wastewater treatment efficiency.

  
  

• Standing Water: A soggy area near the tank or drain field also indicates that the absorption field septic system is malfunctioning. It is unable to handle the effluent filter well.

  
  

• Lush, Green Grass: Although green grass can be beautiful, it’s not a good sign near the drain field. If the soil doesn't drain well, it may cause water leakage over time.

  
  

• Sewage Backups: If you notice that wastewater is returned to your home via toilets or drains, it indicates a serious sign that your septic system is compromised.
  

Factors Affecting Septic Tank Absorption

Several factors can cause improper septic tank absorption. Knowing these factors, from solid type to water usage habits, is essential for identifying issues earlier.

• Soil Composition: The soil type in your drain field plays a crucial role in absorption. Sandy soil is suitable for absorption, while clay-heavy soil can cause wastewater infiltration. 

  
  

• System Design and Size: According to your household members, an appropriately designed or sized septic system ensures optimal performance. A system not aligned with your household leads to issues with the septic tank absorption field.

  
  

• Water Usage: Continuously using water for any work also overwhelms the septic system, reducing its ability to absorb and treat wastewater effectively. Executing water-saving measures helps increase septic tank absorption.

  
  

• Maintenance Practices: Ensure regular septic tank pumping is done for better maintenance. Skipping this can lead to sludge buildup, clogging the absorption field internally.

  
  

• Environmental Conditions: Natural outcomes such as heavy rainfalls or flooding can saturate the soil in the drain field, affecting its ability to absorb wastewater.
  

7 Must-Follow Steps To Increase Septic Tank Absorbing Capacity

Enhancing your septic tank's absorbing capacity is essential for maintaining an efficient and smooth system.

Here are some practical steps to achieve this:

Step 1: Regular Maintenance And Pumping

To increase the absorption capacity of the septic tank, ensure a weekly or monthly inspection.

Also, pump it every 3 to 5 years to prevent sludge buildup in the tank and ensure the system operates efficiently. This extends the life of your absorption bed septic systems.

Step 2: Water Conservation Practices

Water conservation is beneficial for the septic system to flow properly without any hurdle.

Installing water-saving fixtures for laundry and dishwashing systems can improve septic tank drainage and reduce overloading.

Step 3: Proper Waste Disposal

Avoid flushing nonbiodegradable items such as paper towels, baby wipes, or harmful chemicals in your tank.

These materials can clog pipes and reduce the efficiency of your septic tank absorbing capacity solutions, leading to costly septic tank repair and replacement.

Step 4: Protect and Expand The Drain Field

Avoid keeping vehicles or heavy equipment over the drain field, as these items can damage the drain and compact the soil.

If you still want to add it, add a leach field size for a 3-bedroom home or a lead field size for a 4-bedroom home to balance the wastewater volume.

Step 5: Use Bacterial Additives

Natural bacteria supplements can enhance breakdown efficiency and slow septic tank absorption.

These additives help maintain a balanced ecosystem in the tank, reducing the risk of blockages.

Step 6: Redirect Surface Water

Ensure that rainwater runs off quickly from roof drains and gutters. Then, the water is directed away from the drain field.

Excess water in the area can oversaturate the soil and reduce its ability to increase septic tank capacity.

Step 7: Maintain Proper Distance From The House

Consider the maximum distance from the house to the septic tank if installing or modifying your septic system.

Proper placement ensures effective absorption and prevents contamination risks.

What Is A Good Absorption Rate For A Septic System?

A test is taken to determine a reasonable absorption rate for a septic system, also known as a percolation test. This test helps measure how quickly wastewater is drained through the soil.

The absorption rate between 10 to 60 minutes per inch MPI is best for a standard leach field.

Rates faster than 5 MPI may indicate soil that is too permeable. This potentially allows wastewater to reach groundwater before proper filtration.

Conversely, rates slower than 60 MPI suggest poor permeability, which risks system backups and surface pooling. 

The number of bedrooms in a home also influences the septic system's appropriate size and absorption capacity.

Regular septic tank maintenance for better absorption helps prevent issues and ensures the system functions efficiently. 

How Much Does It Cost To Increase The Septic Capacity Of Absorption?

The cost of enhancing a septic system's absorption capacity varies depending on the improvement needs. For instance, adding or replacing an effluent filter costs $200 to $600.

Updating with advanced systems, such as aerobic septic system units, can be expensive.

Preventive Measures To Maintain Absorption Capacity

• Use water-efficient fixtures to reduce excessive wastewater flow.

• Avoid flushing paper towels, grease, or nonbiodegradable materials.

• Keep vehicles off the septic tank absorption field to prevent compaction.

• Direct rainwater and runoff away from the drain field area.

• Limit harsh chemicals that disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the tank.

• Spread out laundry loads to prevent system overload in one day.

• Inspect for leaks and fix them to avoid excess water use.

• Plant grass over the drain field to aid natural evaporation.

• Schedule professional inspections for septic tank maintenance for better absorption.
  

Conclusion

Increasing septic tank absorption capacity is essential to prevent unpleasant odors and water backup issues from your house.

Removing this issue from your side provides several benefits to property owners, including proper wastewater disposal and an eco-friendly environment.

Always consult the issue with a professional to prevent costly septic tank repair and replacement issues. 

At Barnes Sewer & Septic, we provide septic system-related services to property owners. Contact us at (765) 584-7295.

FAQs

Can I use additives to improve absorption?

Additives can help break down waste, but they don’t replace regular septic tank maintenance for better absorption.

What is the cost of repairing the drain field?

A drain field repair typically costs between $1000 to $5000.

How long does a septic tank last with proper maintenance?

Septic tanks can last 25 to 40 years with regular maintenance depending on the solid condition, number of bedrooms, and system usage.