Septic system sand mounds are one of those necessities that can be unsightly. It can also be difficult to know when something is going wrong with your sand mount. Here, you'll learn a few things that will tell you that repairs need to be made.

Monitor the Grass Growth

Have you noticed that the grass is growing at different rates on your sand mound? If the grass only grows an inch in one area per week and another area seems to sprout ten inches per week, you are leaking more water out of the sand mound than is being absorbed into the sand.

To resolve this problem the long pipes that run across the top of the sand mound will need to be replaced. This can be a big job because of all of the digging, but it is a relatively basic fix.

Puddles Around the Mound

If you notice that there are puddles forming at the ends of the mound, then there's probably something going on. Either the pipes are clogged and cannot carry the water through the full length of the mound, forcing it out the ends, or the pipes are damaged at the ends.

To figure out what is going on, you need to inspect the end caps on the pipes. If your end caps are buried, you'll have to dig them up. Once uncovered, look for any damage that could be causing them to leak. Turn on some faucets in your home until the pump kicks on and sends water into the sand mound. This can take quite a bit of time, so if you'd prefer to just pay attention for when the pump kicks on and then go check, you can do that. You just need to watch to see if water comes from the end caps when the water is entering the sand mound.

If the end caps leak, replace them. You may need to cut the old ones off and replace them if they won't come off.

Protecting your sand mound should be high on your priority list. If the waste water isn't flowing into the sand mound as it should, your yard is filling with untreated waste water which can cause safety issues for your family and your pets. If you're worried that the sand mound isn't functioning properly, contact your local septic system professional for an inspection and the necessary repairs to be made. For more information, contact companies like LP Murray.