Flood Conditions and Your Septic System

Photo from epicseptictanks.com

Unfortunately flooding is a common thing around here.  However a common part of our home that may not be given much thought during a flood is the septic system.  When flooding occurs, our septic systems cannot properly function.  Proper function relies on the soil’s ability to treat and disperse wastewater, which cannot be done when our soil is saturated for an extended amount of time.

Dr. Brad Lee, UK Extension Water Quality Specialist, gives these tips on how to prepare your septic system for a flood:
   • Make sure septic tanks are full of liquid.  Empty tanks are buoyant and may float out of the      
        ground when water tables are high.
   • Plug floor drains (if necessary) to keep sewage from backing up into basements.
   • Seal all the septic system’s possible points of entry to keep excess water out of the tank.
   • Waterproof all electrical connections.

Once floodwaters have receded, there are still several things homeowners should remember:
   • Do not drink your well water until it is tested.
   • Do not use the sewage system until water in the soil treatment area is lower than the water level
        around the house.
   • Have your septic tank inspected and services if you suspect damage.  Signs of this may include
        settling or an inability to accept water.  Septic tanks can sometimes fill with silt and debris so
        they must be cleaned if this happens during a flood.
   • Pump the septic system as soon as possible after the flood.
   • Do not compact the soil over the soil treatment area by driving or operating equipment in the
        area.  Compaction could lead to system failure.
   • Examine all electrical connections for damage.
   • Be sure the septic tank’s manhole cover is secure.
   • Repair any erosion damage over the soil treatment areas.

For more information on flood conditions and your septic system, please contact the McLean County Cooperative Extension Service at (270)273-3690.  Educational programs of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability or national origin.


Upcoming Ag Events
March 13th Round Table Series, 8am Poultry Litter as Fertilizer, Dr. Edwin Ritchey
March 17th Plant Swap Planning Meeting, 3pm, Extension Office
March 17th Ag Festival Planning Meeting, 5pm, Extension Office
March 24th Farm Market Days Informational Meeting, 4pm, Extension Office
March 24th District Board Meeting, 6pm, Extension Office