Which of the following is a common sign of septic system failure?

The presence of foul odors around the drain field is a common sign of septic system failure. This odor typically indicates that the septic tank is not properly processing waste, which could be due to a variety of issues such as a clogged drain field, overloading the system, or a tank that requires pumping. When the system is functioning correctly, waste is broken down efficiently, and odors should not be noticeable. Foul smells suggest that untreated sewage is surfacing, which poses health risks and indicates that the system needs immediate attention.

In contrast, regular water pressure fluctuations may occur for various reasons unrelated to septic system issues, such as problems with the home’s plumbing or municipal water supply. Increased flower growth in the yard might also not directly indicate septic failure; it could simply reflect favorable growing conditions or the presence of nutrients. Finally, improved water clarity in wells typically suggests better filtration and is not a sign of septic system problems. It could mean that contaminants from the septic tank are not entering the well, at least for the moment, rather than indicating system health.