How to Tell If Your Septic Tank Is in Good Condition

Your septic tank does a lot of work behind the scenes. But because it’s underground, it can be hard to tell if it’s still in good shape. Regular pumping is important, but it’s also a chance to check the health of the tank itself.

Here are a few ways we can tell if your tank is holding up well — and what signs might point to trouble.

No cracks, leaks, or visible damage

When we open the tank, one of the first things we look for is any physical damage. A tank in good condition won’t have:

• Cracks in the concrete or plastic
• Signs of leaking around the tank or lid
• Roots growing into the tank

If we see any of these, it could mean the tank is starting to fail or could lead to future problems.

Normal sludge and scum levels

A healthy tank will still have solid buildup — that’s expected. But the layers should be within a safe range. If the solids are too high, it could mean the system has been neglected or is being overloaded.

We also check how evenly the layers are separating and whether the bacteria are doing their job.

Proper flow to the drainfield

If the tank is in good shape but the outlet is clogged or slow, that’s something to watch. We make sure the effluent (liquid layer) is flowing out of the tank properly and not backing up or pushing solids into the drainfield.

Good flow means the tank and the rest of the system are working together as they should.

No signs of corrosion

Older concrete or steel tanks can corrode over time. We inspect the inside walls and any metal parts (like baffles or risers) for signs of wear, rust, or crumbling. A healthy tank will have smooth, strong surfaces without flaking or holes.

You’re keeping up with regular pumping

One of the best indicators of a healthy tank is regular service. Pumping every 3 to 5 years helps prevent buildup, catch early issues, and keep the system in top shape. When we see a tank that’s been taken care of, it usually shows.

Bottom line

You don’t have to dig up your yard to know if your septic tank is in good condition. A simple inspection during pumping tells us a lot. We’ll let you know what we see, what’s working well, and if anything needs attention.