What to Do If Your Septic Tank Is Backing Up in Springfield, MO
A septic backup is stressful, unsanitary, and can cause serious damage if not handled quickly. If sewage is coming back into your home or pooling in your yard, taking the right steps immediately can help limit damage and speed up repairs.
Overview
Septic backups are a common emergency for homeowners in Springfield, MO and surrounding Southwest Missouri communities. This guide explains what to do right away, what to avoid, and when to call for emergency septic service.
Stop Using Water Immediately
The first step during a septic backup is to stop all water usage. Running water adds more waste to an already overloaded system and can worsen the backup.
- Do not flush toilets
- Do not run sinks, showers, or tubs
- Do not use dishwashers or washing machines
Reducing water flow helps prevent additional sewage from backing up into the home.
Keep People Away From Affected Areas
Sewage contains bacteria and contaminants that pose health risks. Keep children, pets, and anyone not involved in cleanup away from affected areas.
Avoid direct contact with sewage and do not attempt to clean large spills without proper protective equipment.
What Not to Do During a Septic Backup
Certain actions can make a septic backup worse or cause additional damage.
- Do not dig around the septic tank or drain field
- Do not use chemical drain cleaners
- Do not drive or park vehicles over the drain field
- Do not attempt DIY repairs on septic components
These actions can damage the system or delay proper repair.
Common Causes of Septic Backups in Springfield, MO
Septic backups usually happen when wastewater cannot flow properly through the system. Common causes in the Springfield area include:
- Overdue septic pumping
- Heavy rain saturating the drain field
- Tree root intrusion in septic lines
- Broken or collapsed pipes
- Improper items flushed into the system
- Drain field failure
When to Call for Emergency Septic Service
You should call for professional septic service as soon as a backup occurs. Early response helps limit property damage and health risks.
Emergency service is especially important if:
- Sewage is backing up into the home
- You notice standing wastewater in the yard
- Multiple drains are affected
- The problem worsens after heavy rain
How Moore Septic Services Handles Septic Backups
Moore Septic Services provides emergency septic service throughout Springfield and Southwest Missouri. Our process focuses on stopping the backup, identifying the cause, and preventing repeat issues.
- Rapid response for septic emergencies
- Septic pumping to relieve system overload
- Inspection to identify blockages or damage
- Clear recommendations for repair or maintenance
The goal is not just to fix the immediate problem, but to prevent it from happening again.
FAQ
What should I do first if my septic tank is backing up?
Stop using water immediately and keep people away from affected areas. Then contact a septic professional.
Is a septic backup an emergency?
Yes. Septic backups pose health risks and can cause serious property damage if not addressed quickly.
Can heavy rain cause septic backups?
Yes. Heavy rain can saturate the drain field and prevent wastewater from draining properly.
Should I try to fix a septic backup myself?
No. DIY repairs can worsen damage and create safety hazards.
Who should I call for septic backup in Springfield, MO?
Contact Moore Septic Services for emergency septic pumping and inspection in Springfield and surrounding areas.
