After weeks of heavy rain across Central New Jersey, many homeowners are suddenly dealing with problems they've never seen before, such as slow drains, standing water in the yard, strange smells, or worse.
If this sounds familiar, your septic system could be overwhelmed, and waiting it out may only worsen things.
We specialize in professional septic system installation and replacement at Long Hill Contracting. Here's what you need to know about how heavy rainfall affects your system and how we can help you protect your home before minor issues become major headaches.
Why Rain Impacts Your Septic System
Your septic system and drain field rely on dry, absorbent soil to function correctly. However, when the ground becomes saturated with rainwater, it can no longer effectively absorb wastewater. This causes water and sometimes sewage to back into your home or pool in your yard.
Even a healthy system can become stressed during extreme weather. But if your system is old, undersized, or poorly installed, problems will appear much faster.
Warning Signs to Watch For
If you've experienced any of the following after the recent storms, it's time to take action:
- Slow drains or toilets that struggle to flush
- Gurgling sounds in your pipes or sinks
- Sewage smells near your tank or in your yard
- Standing water or soggy patches near your drain field
- Water pooling above the septic tank
These are signs that your septic system may be failing or oversaturated, and continued water use could worsen things.
What You Should (and Shouldn't) Do Right Now
If your septic system seems affected by the rain, follow these steps to prevent further damage:
DO:
- Call a licensed septic professional immediately
- Limit your water use as much as possible (showers, laundry, dishwasher, etc.)
- Keep people, pets, and vehicles off soggy areas near the tank or drain field
- Take notes or photos of symptoms for your contractor
DON'T:
- Don't assume it will fix itself when the rain stops
- Don't pump your tank without inspecting it could collapse the system if the ground is too saturated
- Don't use chemical additives or DIY treatments, they won't fix structural issues
- Don't wait to get professional help, septic issues escalate fast
How Long Hill Contracting Can Help
If your system shows signs of trouble, it may be time to install a new, properly engineered septic system that can handle your home's needs and the unpredictable weather we've seen more often.
At Long Hill Contracting, we bring decades of experience in septic system installation across Middlesex, Somerset, and surrounding counties. We don't cut corners or overpromise; we do the job right.
Here's why homeowners trust us:
- Specializing in septic installs, not a general contractor doing it "on the side"
- We work with your licensed septic engineer and follow all local permits
- Experienced with wet, saturated, and complex properties
- Fast, professional service from a crew that treats your property with respect
- Fully licensed, insured, and trusted by local inspectors
Don't Let the Rain Win Take Action Today
You're not alone and stuck if you notice septic system problems after all this rain.
Contact Long Hill Contracting today to schedule a free, on-site consultation. We'll assess your property, identify the root issue, and help you confidently take the next step.