Should You Be Able to Hear Your Septic Tank?

By Missy Nolan

July 31, 2025

Think of your septic tank as an introverted coworker who arrives early, stays late and rarely makes a sound. Sure, you may hear from them occasionally, just as your septic tank might glug or gurgle sometimes, but it's not the norm. You might worry that something was wrong if your coworker suddenly became a chatterbox, just as hearing septic tank noises can make you uneasy.

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Why Do I Hear Noises Coming From My Septic Tank?

Drain problems, vent pipe issues, installation errors and system backups could explain why you're hearing septic tank noises. But should you hear your septic tank if everything is fine? Yes, some septic system sounds are normal, but your system should be fairly quiet overall.

Let's run through some common reasons you might have a noisy septic tank. We'll also address the sounds these septic tank issues can cause.

Clogged Drains

Have you been ignoring a slow-draining shower or sink? Clumps of hair and grease can accumulate in your pipes, making it difficult for water and air to pass. This once-silent process triggers a gurgling septic tank or pipes as air fights to flow through your system.

Clogs can form anywhere, so don't assume the blockage is close to your drains if that's where you hear gurgling. You may have issues where your household's plumbing system connects with the septic system. A plumber can send a tiny camera called a borescope through your system to check for blockages and clogs.

Blocked Vent Pipes

Have you ever noticed a random pipe sticking out of your roof? That's your vent pipe, and it helps balance air pressure for your plumbing system. You may also see this pipe in your yard or near the septic tank.

Corrosion or rust can damage your vent pipe, causing a partial blockage. Air pressure problems may also occur if critters such as squirrels and raccoons hide in the vent pipe during bad weather. Ice buildup, twigs and abandoned bird nests can result in pressure-obstructing blockages, too. You may hear gurgling, popping, glugging or suction sounds if your vent pipe gets blocked.

Septic System Backups

Heavy rain, soil drainage problems or an overflowing septic tank can back up your system. Issues can also occur if you use more water than usual in a short period.

When your septic system gets backed up, wastewater can't leave. Think of it like getting caught in a traffic jam on the highway and missing your exit. Trapped wastewater will continue forcing its way through your system. You may hear sucking or bubbling noises as the wastewater attempts to flow toward the drainfield.

Faulty Installation

Slope, tank size and vent placement all play important roles during the installation process. The location and composition of your drainfield also matter. Issues with these components can cause blockages or leaks. You may hear hissing, gurgling or groaning sounds as air and waste try to escape.

These issues aren't the only culprits when it comes to a noisy septic tank. Contact a plumbing company for septic system troubleshooting if you need help identifying the cause.

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What Do Different Septic Tank Noises Mean?

Some septic systems have an alarm that notifies users when the tank is full or the pump needs attention. If yours doesn't, listen for unusual septic system sounds.

Here are some different noises your septic tank may make or cause.

Hissing or Gasping

If your plumbing system is gasping like it just ran a marathon, have a professional check for an air blockage. Poor venting and slope problems can cause these noises.

Bubbling

Does it sound like air is trying to escape from your drains? Your pipes may have a gas buildup, or you could have blocked inlet or outlet pipes in your septic tank.

Sloshing or Splashing

Outdoor septic tank noises can mean your tank is about to overflow, especially if you hear splashing or sloshing near the tank. Call a plumber ASAP for guidance, and try not to use any water in your home.

Gurgling Septic Tank

Clogged drains and pipes are rarely silent. You may notice gurgling or sucking sounds as air tries to force itself through your system.

Is Hearing Septic Tank Noises a Cause for Concern?

A gurgling septic tank can be worrisome and may indicate a problem. You may hear the occasional humming from the system's fan, but usually, your system should run quietly. Hisses, glugs and splashing sounds shouldn't happen.

Unsure whether the septic system sounds you're hearing are normal? A plumber can help if you need septic tank noises explained.

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