4 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Septic System Tank

Southern Civils • November 21, 2024
A yellow excavator is digging in a pile of dirt in front of a brick house.

Your septic system plays a critical role in managing wastewater. Regular maintenance can keep it running smoothly for years, but eventually, the septic tank will reach the end of its lifespan and need replacement so you don’t risk environmental hazards. At Southern Civils, we provide expert septic system tank replacement in the greater Tucson area. Here are four signs that it’s time to replace your septic tank.


Frequent Backups and Slow Drains

One of the most noticeable signs of a failing septic tank is frequent backups in your sinks, showers, and toilets. If these issues keep happening even after attempts to unclog drains, it might mean your tank can no longer effectively process waste. A system that struggles to move waste water is often close to fully failing.


Foul Odors Around Your Property

Septic tanks are designed to keep unpleasant odors contained. If you start to notice strong, foul smells around your property, it could be due to sewage leaking from the tank. This odor is often caused by methane or other gasses escaping due to cracks or other structural issues. If the tank is damaged and allows sewage to seep out, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for replacement.


Excessive Greenery or Grass Growth

If you notice lush, green patches of grass around your septic system, this could mean that wastewater is leaking and fertilizing your yard. A leaking septic tank releases nutrients that promote plant growth, leading to uneven patches of vegetation. Not only does this indicate a damaged tank, but it also increases the risk of soil and water contamination.


Age and Frequent Repairs

Septic tanks commonly last 20-40 years, depending on their material and maintenance history. If your septic tank is reaching or has exceeded this age range, it’s more prone to issues, even with regular maintenance. Frequent repairs can be a red flag that the tank is on its last legs. Instead of continuously spending on repairs, replacing an old septic tank is often a more cost-effective solution in the long term.


Septic System Tank Replacement in Tucson, AZ

When you need septic system tank replacement in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018. Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!

4 Signs that Your Septic System Is Failing and Needs to Be Replaced

By Southern Civils • June 2, 2025
A properly functioning septic system is essential for managing wastewater in homes that aren't connected to a municipal sewer system. When a septic system starts to fail, it can create health hazards, unpleasant odors, and costly damage. At Southern Civils, we provide expert septic system replacement in the greater Tucson area. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you determine if it's time to consider a full replacement. Slow Drains Throughout the House If you're noticing that sinks, bathtubs, and toilets are draining more slowly than usual, and plunging or snaking doesn’t resolve the issue, it could point to a problem with your septic system. While occasional clogs in a single fixture are normal, slow drainage throughout the entire home may indicate that your septic tank is full or the drain field is no longer absorbing water properly. This is often one of the earliest warning signs of a failing system. Foul Odors Indoors or Outside Persistent sewage smells inside your home or near the septic tank or drain field can be a sign that the system is no longer functioning as it should. These odors may be caused by wastewater backing up or by untreated sewage surfacing in the yard. A healthy septic system contains and processes waste without releasing unpleasant smells. When these odors become noticeable, especially in multiple areas, it could be a sign of failure. Sewage Backups in the Home When wastewater begins to back up into your toilets, sinks, or tubs, it’s a red flag that your septic system is failing. Backups commonly start on the lowest level of the house and can cause major health hazards and property damage. If pumping the tank doesn’t fix the issue or backups continue to happen regularly, a full system replacement might be necessary. Lush, Green Patches of Grass Over the Drain Field Unusually green and thick patches of grass over your drain field can be an indication that untreated wastewater is seeping into the soil and acting as a fertilizer. While it might seem harmless at first, this can suggest that the system is leaking or failing underground. Septic System Replacement in Tucson, AZ When you need septic system replacement in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Important Things to Consider When Planning to Install a New Septic System

By Southern Civils • April 28, 2025
Installing a new septic system is a significant investment that requires careful planning and consideration. Whether you're building a new home or replacing an old system, the success and longevity of your septic system depend on a variety of factors. From local regulations to soil quality, understanding what to expect can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth installation process. At Southern Civils, our team would be happy to answer any of your questions about septic system installation. Here are four important things to keep in mind when planning to install a new septic system. Local Regulations and Permits Before any digging begins, it's crucial to check with local health/environmental rules about septic system installation in your particular area. Permits, site evaluations, and inspections are all typically required throughout the process. These rules are in place to protect public health and the environment, so complying with them is not optional. Failure to do so can lead to delays, fines, or being required to redo the work. Soil and Site Evaluation The type of soil on your property plays a major role in determining what kind of septic system you can install. A percolation test, often called a “perc test,” is used to evaluate how well the soil absorbs water. Sandy or loamy soils tend to drain well, while clay-heavy soils can cause problems with absorption. A site evaluation will also consider the slope of your land, distance to water sources, and space available for the system. This assessment will guide your system design and ensure it functions properly for years to come. System Size and Household Needs Your septic system must be sized appropriately for your household’s daily wastewater output. Factors such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and water-using appliances are taken into account when determining tank and drain field size. Installing a system that is too small can lead to frequent backups and maintenance problems. On the other hand, an oversized system may be unnecessarily expensive. Your contractor can help you determine the right size based on your current and future needs, as well as the particular type of system, whether gravity-fed or otherwise. Long-Term Maintenance Planning Even the best-designed septic system requires regular maintenance to function properly. When planning your installation, consider how you’ll access the tank for future pumping and inspections. Discuss a long-term maintenance plan with your installer, including how often the system should be serviced. Staying proactive with maintenance will help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your septic system. Septic System Installation & Replacement in Tucson, AZ For expert septic system services in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!