failing sewer system
The pipes that carry waste from your home to the sewer line are made of a durable material, but they do not last forever. In fact, most of these lines are expected to reach the end of their lifespans in just 30 years or less. When this happens, you will need to have them replaced in order to prevent expensive and hazardous health issues.
When a septic system fails, untreated sewage can leach into nearby surface waters and groundwater. These liquid wastes contain bacteria, viruses and parasites that are a serious health hazard to anyone who comes into contact with them. Dysentery, hepatitis and other diseases caused by the improper treatment of human waste can be spread to people who drink this water or who are exposed to it. In addition, the nutrient pollutants in the wastewater can cause excessive growth of aquatic weeds and algae that degrade lakes, streams and other bodies of water.
Another issue that can result from a failing septic system is the presence of toxic and smelly gases in and around your home. These gases can cause nose, eye and throat irritation as well as breathing problems for individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD. The gases can also contribute to the growth of mold inside your home, which can lead to further health and safety issues for family members and pets.
What are the potential health hazards of a failing sewer system?
You may notice a problem with your sewer replacement when multiple drains in your home are suddenly clogged or you hear loud gurgling sounds coming from your toilets. You should also receive regular inspections of your septic tank and drain lines to prevent blockages and leaks from occurring.
A failing septic system can send disease-causing pathogens into the groundwater and surface water. These toxins can create an immediate health risk to children, pets and adults who drink the contaminated water or come into direct contact with it. These pathogens can include E coli, Salmonella and other harmful organisms that can cause diarrheal illnesses including hepatitis A and B. They can also cause skin infections and enter the lungs when inhaled.
Workers who handle sewage or raw septic waste pose an additional risk of infection because they are exposed to the pathogens through their bare hands and skin. In addition, the germs can be transferred to their eyes and respiratory tract through contaminated tools and hands. The symptoms of these infections include fever, aches, vomiting and diarrhea.
When you need to replace your sewer line, it’s best to hire a professional plumber who uses trenchless methods. Traditional sewer replacement involves digging a large trench across your property in order to find and replace the old lines. This is an invasive process that can damage sidewalks, driveways, patios and lawns. There are several ways to repair or replace sewer lines without damaging these areas of your home, and the new lines can even be installed underneath your existing ones. One option is called pipe bursting, which was developed in the 1970s.