Septic Tank Clogged Filter

Signs of a clogged septic tank filter or graywater filter septic filters are placed either in the septic tank at the outlet tee or in a separate chamber outside of and close to the septic tank.

Septic tank clogged filter.

Although we recommend letting a professional handle the cleaning for you you can clean or replace a septic tank filter on your own. Sometimes they become clogged with items that should not have been flushed such as tampons wet wipes condoms or paper towels. Finally check the inlet baffle to the tank if you have access to it. This is installed in the outlet of the septic tank and is a huge help in preventing solid waste from getting into the leach field along with the treated wastewater.

The most common signs of a clogged septic tank filter are sluggish drainage and high effluent levels in the system. Your septic tank outlet filter needs maintenance just like the rest of your septic system. A properly working septic tank outlet filter will become clogged as effluent is filtered and leaves the septic tank. Proper septic tanks should be fitted with an effluent filter or tank outlet filter.

Septic failure or slow draining sinks and toilets may be related to a filter issue if a filter is clogged or partially clogged it may not be letting the effluent water from the tank flow into the drain leach field. Septic tanks are best fitted with an effluent filter also known as tank outlet filter. If sewage is backing up into your home or surfacing around the septic tank you might have a problem with the outlet baffle or effluent filter. These solid waste materials may even clog up your septic tank s outlet pipe.

An abnormally dry drain field could also point to a dirty or a damaged septic tank filter. Graywater filters may be placed at the inlet to a drywell or graywater disposal system. As the solid materials accumulate over time they progressively clog more and more of the filter requiring maintenance. Then the tank and sewer line may not drain properly and back up.