5 Warning Signs Your Septic Drainfield Is Failing (And What to Do Before It’s Too Late)
- Septic Plus
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
If your yard smells like sewage or you’ve got soggy grass where it shouldn’t be, your septic drainfield might be trying to tell you something—and fast.
At Septic Plus, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when septic problems go unchecked. Georgia’s clay soil doesn’t forgive poor drainage, and a failing drainfield can cost you thousands in repairs and downtime.
Here are 5 signs your drainfield is failing—and what to do next:
1. Standing Water or Soggy Grass
If you notice pooling water over your drainfield, especially during dry weather, that’s not normal. It means the soil can’t absorb wastewater properly. That’s a major red flag.
2. Sewage Odors
If it smells like something’s died under your yard, trust your nose. Strong, foul odors are often the first sign your system is oversaturated or backing up.
3. Slow Drains and Gurgling Pipes
Slow sinks, bubbling toilets, or gurgling drains might mean your tank is full—or your drainfield is saturated and struggling to process wastewater.
4. Frequent Pump-Outs Aren’t Helping
If you’ve pumped your tank but problems return fast, your drainfield may no longer be functional. A healthy drainfield absorbs and filters wastewater. A failed one does not.
5. Lush, Green Grass in One Spot
If one section of your yard looks like it’s on Miracle-Gro while the rest struggles, that’s a red flag. It could mean sewage is surfacing—or soaking in one concentrated area.
So What’s the Fix?
If you’re seeing these signs, don’t wait. Septic drainfield failure only gets worse—and more expensive—with time. The solution may be a full drainfield replacement or system upgrade, especially in compact Georgia clay.
Why Septic Plus?
We don’t guess. We dig deep. Our team at Septic Plus provides honest evaluations, expert repairs, and septic installations designed specifically for Georgia soil. We handle everything—permits, trenching, inspections, and backfill. No shortcuts. No surprises.
Call 770-472-7587 or visit SepticPlusGA.com to schedule a free inspection today.
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