Lakeville’s Septic System Crisis: When High Water Tables Turn Your Home Into a Sewage Nightmare

Homeowners in Lakeville, Massachusetts are facing an unprecedented crisis as high water tables are causing widespread septic system failures, making it the most common reason for system failures and preventing adequate treatment of sewage before it enters groundwater. With rising water tables making it hard for septic systems to properly drain and filter wastewater, leading to backups of waste into homes, an estimated 60% of homes in certain areas of Lakeville are experiencing sewage backups and system malfunctions.

Understanding the High Water Table Problem

A high water table is characterized by groundwater levels close to or above the soil surface, which makes it difficult for septic systems to operate effectively. In Lakeville, this natural phenomenon has been exacerbated by recent weather patterns, creating perfect storm conditions for septic system failures.

Whenever the water table is high or your sewage system is threatened by flooding there is a risk that sewage will back up into your home. The only way to prevent this backup is to relieve pressure on the system by using it less. Unfortunately, many Lakeville residents are discovering this reality the hard way.

The Warning Signs: Is Your Home at Risk?

Lakeville homeowners should watch for these critical warning signs of septic system failure caused by high water tables:

• Slow-moving drains
• Sewage backups in your home
• Bad odors around your property
• Wet ground above leach field
• Lush vegetation over the drain field
• Water backing up into floor drains in the basement

Why High Water Tables Spell Disaster for Septic Systems

Excessive groundwater can interfere with the leach field’s ability to absorb and treat wastewater, leading to system failures, environmental contamination, and health risks. The problem is particularly severe in Lakeville because traditional septic systems rely on native soil to finish the treatment process. But if your water table is too high, they don’t have the soil they need to treat wastewater before it returns to groundwater.

Groundwater saturation in high water table areas can decrease the permeability of the soil, hindering the leaching process. This can result in inadequate treatment of wastewater, leading to pollution of surrounding water bodies.

The Health and Environmental Risks

The consequences of septic system failure extend far beyond inconvenience. If your system starts to fail, it can leave untreated waste to seep into the groundwater. With that, pollutants and pathogens could end up in your home. This creates serious health hazards for families and threatens the local ecosystem.

Raw sewage on the ground can present a health hazard because children and pets can run through it or it can flow into a water course. Water borne diseases are lethal and spread from person to person quickly.

Solutions for Lakeville Homeowners

While the situation is challenging, there are several solutions available to Lakeville residents dealing with high water table septic issues:

Immediate Steps to Take

• Reduce water use in the house. Make sure there are no leaking fixtures in the house
• Check faucets, shower heads, toilets, sinks and any other water using device for leaks and repair them as soon as possible
• Don’t direct water from a basement sump pump into the septic system. Don’t let water from roof gutters or from the sump pump discharge into the drainfield area

Long-term Solutions

Raising the septic tank above the high water table level is crucial to ensure the system functions effectively. The installation of an elevated mound system allows for the proper treatment and dispersal of effluent, minimizing the risk of contamination.

For homes with persistent problems, you should look at other options, such as an aerobic treatment unit or a mound system. These systems can handle the challenging conditions of a high water table or poor soil.

When to Call a Professional

Given the complexity and health risks involved, it’s crucial to work with experienced professionals. Only trained specialists should clean or repair septic tanks because tanks may contain dangerous gases. Contact your health department for a list of septic system contractors who work in your area.

For Lakeville residents dealing with plumbing emergencies related to septic system failures, working with a qualified Plumber in Lakeville, MA can provide immediate relief and professional assessment of your system’s needs.

Dempsey Energy understands that your home’s comfort depends on reliable HVAC, plumbing, electrical and energy systems. For over 30 years, families across Massachusetts have trusted them to keep their homes running efficiently and comfortably. With fast, same-day repairs, fully stocked trucks, and 24/7 emergency services, they’re available when you need them most.

Prevention and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing septic system failures. You should have your septic tank professionally pumped every three to five years. Regular pumping prevents backups and keeps your septic system running efficiently. However, in high water table areas like parts of Lakeville, more frequent pumping may be necessary.

Use water efficiently, repair leaky taps and toilets, and install water-efficient appliances to reduce wastewater and lighten the load on your septic system.

The Bottom Line

Lakeville’s septic system crisis is a serious issue that requires immediate attention from homeowners, local authorities, and professional service providers. Septic systems in high water table areas face unique challenges that require careful consideration. With proper professional help, upgraded systems, and preventive maintenance, homeowners can protect their families and property from the devastating effects of septic system failure.

If you’re experiencing any signs of septic system problems, don’t wait. Contact a qualified professional immediately to assess your system and explore solutions that will keep your home safe and comfortable, even in the face of Lakeville’s challenging high water table conditions.