Septic systems and inclement weather

🌧️ How Wet Weather Can Impact Your Septic System—and What You Can Do About It

Heavy rain is a fact of life in Northeast Georgia, especially during spring and summer. While most homeowners worry about flooding or roof leaks, one critical system often gets overlooked: the septic system.

At Curry Septic and Sewer, we’ve seen firsthand how saturated soil and excess groundwater can wreak havoc on septic tanks and drain fields. Here’s what you need to know—and how to protect your home before the next downpour.

💧 What Happens to Your Septic System During Heavy Rain?

When the ground becomes saturated, your drain field—the part of the system that filters wastewater—can’t absorb water efficiently. This leads to:

• Slow drains and gurgling toilets

• Standing water over the drain field

• Septic backups into the home

• Unpleasant odors in the yard

In extreme cases, the tank itself can become overfilled, pushing untreated wastewater back into your plumbing.

🛠️ Warning Signs to Watch For

If you notice any of the following during or after a storm, your septic system may be struggling:

• Water pooling near the tank or drain field

• Toilets flushing slowly or not at all

• Bubbling sounds in sinks or tubs

• Sewage odors indoors or outdoors

Don’t wait—these are signs that your system needs immediate attention.

✅ How to Protect Your Septic System in Wet Weather

Here are a few proactive steps you can take:

1. Schedule a pre-storm inspection  We’ll check your tank levels and ensure your drain field is functioning properly.

2. Pump your tank regularly  A full tank is more likely to overflow during heavy rain. Routine pumping reduces risk.

3. Redirect surface water  Make sure gutters and downspouts don’t drain toward your septic system.

4. Limit water usage during storms  Reduce laundry loads, long showers, and dishwasher cycles to ease the burden.