What to do when your septic alarm goes off?

Everything you need to know about septic tank alarms

The septic alarm systems monitor the water levels in the septic tank. They are designed to alert the user when the water level is too high or too low. So if your alarm goes off or if you can see a red light on the alarm, this can indicate a higher than usual level of water. It could also be due to the high level of sludge in the tank and in this case, septic tank cleaning would often fix the problem.

Why does the water level increase in the septic tank?

Septic systems have a timer installed on the tank which allows the pump to let wastewater out onto the leach field at specific intervals. The timer manages the intervals in which the pump can let wastewater flow out of the system. If a lot of water is being used between the pumping cycles, the water has nowhere to go and will continue to rise inside the tank.

What are the reasons for the high water level in the septic tank?

There could be many reasons for a high level of water in your septic tank system.

1. No power supply to the septic system - Check your switchboard to see if the septic system is getting a power supply.
2. Excessive water usage - long showers, frequent laundry loads, and running the dishwasher more than usual can put too much water in the septic system.
3. Groundwater or rainwater can also accumulate around the septic system and seep into the tank.
4. The effluent filter could be clogged. The effluent filters need to be cleaned every six months otherwise the solids accumulate in the filters. This slows down the flow of effluent leaving the system, increasing the water level in the septic tank.
5. Some septic tanks use pumps to feed the effluent into the secondary treatment systems. If the pump has failed, it will increase the water level in the tank.
6. The leach field can become clogged with effluent and cause the water level to increase.
7. Mechanical problems in the air compressor, float switch or other components can also cause the water level to rise.
8. A high level of sludge can also be a potential reason for this problem and can be fixed by septic tank cleaning.

In Aerobic Treatment Systems, this problem could arise due to a faulty aeration device or a high water level in the aeration tank.

Find out more about septic system maintenance

• How often do I need to get my Septic System inspected?
• How do you know when to pump out a septic tank?

What to do if the septic alarm goes off?

Press the red button on the alarm box or switch on the alarm box, this should turn off the alarm. Let the septic system run for 10-15 hours and the red light may turn off automatically. Note: Use less water during this time to help the system lower the water level.

If the red light goes off, your system is working properly.

Help - the red light on the septic system is still on!

If the red light on the alarm won't turn off, do not panic. Contact Express Wastewater and we can resolve the problem in a prompt and professional manner. We prioritise emergency issues and provide services throughout South-East Queensland. So if your septic system needs an urgent checkup, give us a call at 1300 722 517 or complete our online job booking form.