What Should You Do If Your Septic Tank Alarm Is Going Off?

Having a septic system alarm keeps you in touch with what's happening under the ground, even though you can't see it for yourself. Learn what to do when your septic pump alarm sounds so you don't end up in a messy situation.

This May Also Interest You: Why Does My Sump Pump Run in the Winter?

What Is a Septic Tank Alarm, and Where Is It Located?

Most septic tanks have alarms to help monitor the system. The device constantly tracks the water level inside your septic tank. If it ventures outside the normal range, you'll get a septic tank alert to let you know something's not right.

The alarm system consists of two main parts: the float switch and the alarm box. These parts work together to monitor water levels and alert you when the water is higher or lower than normal. The float goes inside the tank so it can gauge the water level.

Outside the tank, you'll find the alarm box, which features an audible alarm and a light that goes off when the levels are abnormal. It's usually located on a post near the tank, on the side of your house or inside the house or garage. Wireless models transmit data via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

What Does It Mean When the Septic Tank Alarm Goes Off?

When your septic tank alarm goes off, it means the water level inside the tank is incorrect. High water levels happen for several reasons, including:

• Increased water usage

• Lack of power to the septic tank

• Septic pump failure

• Clogged effluent filter

• Clogged leach field

• High sludge levels

• Ground water entering the tank

A septic system alarm going off usually indicates high water levels, but the alarm also sounds if the water level is lower than it should be. Improper maintenance and septic tank leaks are potential causes of low water levels.

In some cases, the issue is with the septic pump alarm float. If the float becomes damaged or isn't installed correctly, it might misread the water level and sound a false septic tank alert. Having an inspection from a professional determines if this is the case.

More Related Articles:

• Why Is My Septic Drain Field Wet?

• What Is a Septic Inspection? (And How Do I Know If I Need One?)

• How to Reduce Septic Odors

• Your Leaky Septic System Is a Hazard. Here's Why

• Why Does My Shower Smell Like Sewage?

How Do I Get My Septic System Alarm to Turn Off?

Is your septic tank alarm going off, and do you not know what to do? First, don't panic yet. Usually, the alarm sounds before the tank reaches a critical point. You likely have at least a day before anything serious happens. But that doesn't mean you should ignore the situation completely. Taking action now can keep the situation from getting worse.

If you want to silence the audible septic tank alert, look for a mute mode on the alarm box. The light or beacon typically stays lit until the water levels go back to the normal range, but you can usually shut off the sound.

Start by checking the power source to the septic tank to see if the breaker tripped. If this is the case, reset the breaker to restore power to the system. It can take time for the system to handle the excess water, so cut back on your water usage during this time when possible.

Whether or not it's a power issue, give the system about 10 hours to see if the light shuts off on its own, indicating that the water level is back in the normal range. Sometimes, the high water levels resolve on their own. For example, if you use more water than normal, the system eventually catches up and returns to normal water levels. Waiting several hours gives the pump a chance to do its job.

If the light remains on past the 10-hour mark, it's time to call a plumber or septic tank company. You could have a more serious problem, such as a clog or failed pump. A professional will assess the situation to determine why your water levels are high and your septic tank alarm is going off.

From there, they offer solutions to restore the tank based on the situation. For instance, they might suggest pumping the tank if the sludge level is too high. If your pump is damaged, they can install a new one.