A backed-up septic tank isn’t just unsightly, it’s a serious issue that can damage your home and put your health at risk. If you’ve got sewage creeping up into your sinks or bubbling out into the yard, time is not on your side. Acting quickly can help stop the damage, lower cleanup costs, and keep your family safe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, what to do right away, and how to avoid another mess down the road. If you’re in or near Bonham, TX, keep Underwood Plumbing & Septic in mind; we’re nearby and ready to help.
Signs Of Septic Tank Backup
You don’t always need to see sewage to know something’s wrong. Watch for these common warning signs:
- Slow drains throughout the house (not just one sink or tub).
- Toilets gurgling or not flushing properly.
- Bad smells coming from drains or outside near the drain field.
- Standing water or soggy spots in the yard.
- Sewage backup in tubs, sinks, or toilets.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to stop using water and call for help. Backups can go from annoying to dangerous quickly.
What to Do When Your Septic Tank Is Full or Backed Up
1. Stop Using Water Inside the House
This is the most important first step. Keep all water off; don’t flush toilets, run showers, or use the dishwasher or washing machine. Any extra water adds pressure to your already-full tank and makes a backup more likely.
2. Keep People and Pets Away
Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other harmful organisms. If the mess is outside, rope off the area or put up a barrier to keep kids and pets away. If it’s inside, open some windows for airflow, but don’t turn on fans that could blow particles into other rooms.
3. Don’t Try a DIY Fix
Skip the drain cleaner and step away from the snake tool. Septic systems are different from regular plumbing, and trying to fix the problem yourself can cause more damage. You also risk exposure to dangerous waste. It’s best to leave it to a professional with the right equipment and training.
4. Call for Septic Emergency Help
Reach out to a local septic professional as soon as possible. In Bonham, Underwood Plumbing & Septic offers 24/7 emergency service, and we know how to fix a backed-up septic tank quickly and safely.
What Causes Septic Tank Backups?
Most septic issues build up over time, but they tend to catch people off guard. Here are some of the most common causes:
- The tank hasn’t been pumped recently (most homes need this every 3–5 years).
- Tree roots have grown into the pipes.
- Grease, wipes, or hygiene products are clogging the system.
- Rain has flooded the drain field.
- Indoor plumbing problems are affecting how water flows out.
Routine care and watching what goes down the drain can help you avoid needing septic tank overflowing solutions later.
Cleaning Up After a Backup
If you’ve had sewage enter your home, cleanup needs to be done carefully:
- Wear gloves, a mask, and waterproof boots
- Remove carpet, rugs, or furniture that touched sewage because they can’t be safely cleaned
- Wipe all hard surfaces with a strong disinfectant
- Use fans and a dehumidifier to dry everything out
For large or serious cleanups, it’s worth hiring a professional cleanup service. They’ll make sure the space is safe and dry, and help prevent mold or lingering odors.
How to Prevent Another Backup
Once you’ve dealt with a backup, the last thing you want is to go through it again. Here are some steps to lower the risk:
- Pump your septic tank regularly. Most homes need pumping every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage.
- Watch what you flush. Only flush toilet paper. That means no wipes, tissues, or hygiene products.
- Skip the grease. Pouring oil or grease down the drain can clog your pipes over time.
- Use water wisely. Spread out laundry loads and avoid long showers back-to-back.
- Schedule yearly inspections. A quick checkup can catch small problems before they turn into expensive ones.
If you’re not sure when your system was last pumped or inspected, now’s a good time to get on a regular maintenance schedule.
Local Plumbing Help When You Need It
If your septic tank is backing up or you’re dealing with a sewage backup in the yard or home, don’t wait. At Underwood Plumbing & Septic, we specialize in emergency septic service in Bonham and nearby towns.
We know how stressful these situations can be. That’s why we arrive quickly, explain what’s happening in plain terms, and get to work right away so you can get back to normal life as soon as possible.
Don’t wait and hope it gets better. If your septic tank is backing up, things can go from bad to worse fast. At Underwood Plumbing & Septic, we’re ready to help around the clock. Whether it’s sewage in the yard or toilets that won’t flush, we’ve got the tools and experience to fix the problem the right way.
Call Underwood Plumbing & Septic for Fast Emergency Service
Don’t let a septic tank backup damage your home or put your health at risk. At Underwood Plumbing & Septic, we offer 24/7 emergency response, expert repairs, and friendly, local service you can count on. Contact us today and get your septic system and your peace of mind back on track.
Call (903) 474-2658 to schedule your septic repair!