What is a sign that a septic system may require immediate attention?

A sign that a septic system may require immediate attention is the presence of bad odors near the drain field. Foul smells typically indicate that the system is not functioning correctly, which could be due to issues like over-saturation of the soil, a backup in the system, or decay of waste materials that are not being properly processed. Such odors suggest a potential failure in the system that can lead to more serious environmental and health risks if not addressed promptly.

In contrast, healthy lawn growth around the septic system can often indicate that the system is functioning correctly, as it suggests that nutrients from the septic system are effectively nourishing the vegetation. Increased water pressure is not a common indicator of septic system health, as it relates more to plumbing issues than septic concerns. Consistent drain function typically signals that the system is operating properly and does not warrant immediate attention.