Septic Emergency Guide

If you're experiencing a septic emergency, take these steps immediately. A sewage backup or overflow requires prompt action to protect your health and property.

What Qualifies as a Septic Emergency?

• Sewage backup: Wastewater coming up through drains, toilets, or floor drains
• Complete blockage: Nothing will drain and toilets won't flush
• Visible sewage: Waste water pooling on ground surface near tank or drain field
• Strong sewage odors: Inside the home with drainage problems
• Gurgling from multiple fixtures: Combined with inability to drain

What to Do Right Now

Step 1: Stop Using Water

This is critical. Every drop of water you send down a drain adds to the problem.

• Don't flush toilets
• Don't run faucets
• Don't use washing machine or dishwasher
• Don't shower or bathe

Step 2: Protect Your Family

Sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens.

• Keep children and pets away from affected areas
• Don't touch sewage without protective gloves
• If you must enter the area, wear boots and avoid skin contact
• Wash hands thoroughly after any contact

Step 3: Call for Emergency Service

This isn't something to wait out or hope improves. Call a professional immediately. Shell Knob Septic Pumping offers after-hours and weekend emergency service.

Step 4: Document the Situation

If safe to do so, take photos for insurance purposes:

• Areas where sewage has surfaced
• Affected rooms or fixtures
• Any property damage

What NOT to Do

• Don't use chemical drain cleaners—they won't help and can damage the system
• Don't try to open the septic tank yourself—dangerous gases can be present
• Don't pump your own tank—requires proper equipment and disposal
• Don't ignore it—septic emergencies don't resolve themselves

Health Precautions

Sewage contains harmful organisms including:

• E. coli and other bacteria
• Viruses including hepatitis
• Parasites
• Harmful gases

If anyone has direct contact with sewage, wash thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention if sewage contacts eyes, mouth, or open wounds.

After Emergency Service

Once the immediate problem is resolved:

• Professional cleanup may be needed for indoor sewage
• Disinfect affected surfaces with a bleach solution
• Dispose of contaminated items that can't be properly cleaned
• Document everything for insurance claims
• Discuss prevention with your service provider

Preventing Future Emergencies

• Regular pumping: Every 3-5 years prevents buildup
• Watch for warning signs: Slow drains, odors, gurgling
• Be careful what you flush: Only human waste and toilet paper
• Don't ignore minor issues: Small problems become emergencies

Emergency Service Pricing

Shell Knob Septic Pumping's emergency service (after hours/weekends) adds $200 to the standard service price:

• Standard service: $275
• Emergency fee: $200
• Total emergency service: $475

This includes the same complete pump-out and disposal as regular service.