What should I do when my septic system backs up?
Stop using water, avoid chemical drain cleaners, keep people and pets away from wet yard areas, and describe the backup to General Septic or the applicable health authority.
A septic backup is an urgent safety concern.
Step 1: Stop water use Stop the dishwasher, laundry, toilets, sinks, and showers where possible. Additional water may worsen the backup.
Step 2: Do not use chemical products Drain cleaners and additives will not resolve a full tank or saturated field, and chemical drain openers may harm tank bacteria.
Step 3: Secure outdoor areas If there is wet ground, pooling, or odor near the drain field, mark it off and keep children and pets away. Sewage contains pathogens.
Step 4: Describe the request Use the request form to describe the active backup. General Septic can confirm the available scope and terms before work is authorized.
Step 5: Share relevant information - When was the tank last pumped? - Which drains are affected? - Are there wet spots or odors in the yard? - How many people use the system? - Any recent changes such as guests or high laundry volume?
These details give General Septic useful context.
Need help describing a septic request?
General Septic helps property owners across King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties request direct septic service from General Septic. Use the form above to share the relevant details.