Log in

What Happens When a Septic System Fails?

Untreated Wastewater Reaches Groundwater

When a drain field no longer treats wastewater effectively:

Bacteria move into groundwater.
Viruses can travel significant distances underground.
Nitrogen and phosphorus reach nearby waters.
Household chemicals may contaminate drinking water.
For lakefront properties, contaminated groundwater often migrates toward the lake.

Damage to the Lake, Excess Nutrients Fuel Algae Growth

Nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater can:

Increase algae growth
Reduce water clarity
Encourage nuisance aquatic weeds
Decrease oxygen levels
Stress fish populations
Alter natural ecosystems

Harm to Fish and Wildlife

Nutrient pollution can lead to:

Fish kills
Reduced aquatic habitat quality
Changes in plant communities
Loss of sensitive species
Health Risks

Swimming and Recreation

Failing systems can introduce:

E. coli bacteria
Viruses
Parasites
Potential health effects include:
Gastrointestinal illness
Skin infections
Ear infections
Other waterborne diseases
Drinking Water Wells
Private wells can become contaminated with:
Bacteria
Nitrates
Viruses
High nitrate levels are particularly concerning for infants and vulnerable individuals.

SEPTIC REPLACMENT & PERMITS

Septic work generally requires permits and inspections through local health departments.

Examples requiring permits may include:

Installing a new system
Replacing a failing system
Expanding a home or adding bedrooms
Major repairs or upgrades

Property owners should work only with licensed professionals familiar with local soils and shoreline conditions.

There may be financial assistance available for homeowners:

Septic Repair Assistance

Signs of Septic System Failure

Watch FOR:

Slow drains
Gurgling plumbing
Sewage odors
Wet or soggy areas above the drain field
Bright green grass over the field during dry weather
Standing water
Sewage backing up into the house

IF YOU NOTICE THESE SIGNS:

Reduce water use immediately
Contact a licensed septic professional
Schedule an inspection
Repair problems promptly
Early repairs are far less expensive than full replacement

How Much Wastewater Can Leak?

A typical home can generate 200–400 gallons of wastewater per day, depending on occupancy and water use.

When a system fails, a substantial portion of this wastewater may no longer receive

proper treatment before reaching groundwater.

Even a single failing system can contribute significant nutrient and bacterial loading to nearby groundwater and surface waters. When multiple systems fail within a watershed, cumulative impacts can become substantial.