Restaurants constantly produce wastewater in the bathrooms, and more so in the kitchen each day. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems filter out solid waste.
If this does not work properly, it creates unsanitary conditions. Wastewater can cause disease, making system failures a public health hazard and forcing restaurants to close.
This makes a properly functioning septic system extremely important. Keep reading to learn important signs of septic system failure that your restaurant should watch for.
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Strange Noises
Water makes a distinct noise as it flushes through the pipes quickly. You should not hear more than the whoosh of it flowing through. If you hear gurgling noises and/or see bubbles, it may indicate a bigger problem.
Slow Drainage
Water should always flush through the toilet and the sink drains quickly and efficiently. If it runs slowly, that can indicate a septic system failure.
If you notice water draining slowly, check all of the faucets and toilets to see if it happens in multiple places. A slow drain in only one sink may simply need to be plunged and unclogged. But, if all of the plumbing seems to run slowly, contact a commercial septic pumping company before things get worse.
Sewage Backup
Waste should never back up into the pipes. Sometimes a local pipe clog in the toilet can cause a backup.
But, if you notice waste consistently backing up in the toilet or any dirty water backing up into the sinks, you’re probably dealing with a septic system pump failure.
Funky Smells
Septic systems hold a number of organic wastes, including rotting foods and human feces. When the waste goes into the tank, it also contains the stenches produced.
If you smell funky stenches, this indicates a serious problem with your wastewater treatment system. While any bad aroma requires attention, nobody should go near a rotten egg smell.
The scent not only offends the olfactory senses but it indicates hydrogen sulfide from rising sewer gas. Low levels will not hurt you on one exposure, but it can cause toxicity.
Standing Water
Do you see puddles on the lawn without any rainfall? This might actually indicate a sewage problem.
The septic system sits next to your restaurant, deep underground. When it backs up and floods the surrounding area, you will see the dirty water pools. This water contains bacteria and toxins, so this requires prompt attention.
Greener Grass
If the grass next to your restaurant suddenly appears lusher, pay attention. The sewage water that can cause disease in humans can also feed plants with nutrients from the biodegradable breakdown. If your tank only floods slightly, you will notice a nice lawn without the puddles.
Never Ignore Signs of Septic System Failure
Pay attention if you see signs of septic system failure at your restaurant. Ignoring the signs can lead to bigger issues that may cost you more money in the long run. It can even lead to the health department shutting you down.
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