I have a 1000 gal plastic septic tank about 25 ys old that drains into a seepage pit. When I am away for 3 weeks the water level drops about 6 inches below the output drain pipe. I fill it back up and it seems to hold the proper level. Is this normal because of evaporation and solids breaking down or do I have a leak? The kitchen sink and toilet with a two gallon flush are the only connections to the tank.
Is the septic tank leaking
leakseptic-tanks
Related Topic
- I have two roof drains, can I seal one of them
- Should new septic system be filled with water
- Toilet Tank slow leak, have all new parts, tried all troubleshooting…help!
- Plumbing – How to find a hidden water consumption source? UPDATED
- Septic tank concrete flooring
- How to start investigating the source of this leak in the bathroom
- Do I have a natural spring or a leak
- Locating toilet tank leak: flapper or flush valve or tanks bolts and washers
Best Answer
Very interesting question. My first thought is that dropping 6 inches in 3 weeks is not really normal in a sealed system, but not a condition to be alarmed about. The goal of any inground leaching system is to exit solid free water to a sandy bed to filter and absorb into the grounds. It is very difficult to determine if you have a crack or breach in your tank without inspecting it when empty and cleaned. Usually my septic subs will drain the tank, clean the bottom enough to look for a displacement crack or root infiltration. It is rare that we go to that extent unless there is evidence of effluent waste water surfacing on the ground. This is evident by soggy ground and a foul smell.
If you do have a minor leak towards the bottom of your tank, it really isn't causing any real harm as the waste water is just taking a short cut. As long as you don't have the symptoms of failure, I wouldn't worry to much right now. Many old systems actually used just a leaky tank without a leach field. This was common on small lots in areas of sandy soils that drained well.
As long as your septic tank is far enough away from a well used for potable water, contamination should not be a problem. If you do use a well, a water test might be a good idea if the tank is in closer proximity than the leach field.