6 Signs Your Septic System Is Failing

Living in rural or outlying areas of Montana often means having a private septic system. When it's working, you hardly think about it — but when it fails, the mess can be costly, smelly, and even hazardous to your property and health.

At EC Industries, we’ve seen what happens when early warning signs go ignored. Here's how to spot septic trouble before it turns into a full-blown disaster.

1. Slow Drains and Gurgling Sounds

If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining more slowly than usual — or you’re hearing strange gurgling noises — that could mean your septic tank is full or the drain field is saturated.

Montana homes are more prone to this in the spring when snowmelt increases groundwater levels and slows down drainage.

2. Sewage Odors in the Yard or Home

A strong smell of sewage inside or outside your home is a red flag. You may have a leak, a backup, or a failing drain field. Don’t ignore it — these odors can indicate raw sewage escaping into your soil.

3. Standing Water or Soggy Ground Near the Drain Field

Puddles forming near your septic system — especially when it hasn’t rained — may mean the system is overloaded. In Montana, frozen ground can also prevent proper absorption, causing surface pooling in early spring.

4. Toilet or Sink Backups

One of the most obvious (and unpleasant) signs of a septic problem is waste backing up into your home. This often happens when the tank is full, or if tree roots, clogs, or collapsed lines are blocking the flow.

5. Bright Green Patches Over Your Drain Field

If you notice especially lush, fast-growing grass in one area of your yard — particularly above your drain field — that could mean wastewater is surfacing and acting like fertilizer. It’s not just unhealthy… it’s a clear sign of failure.

6. Your System Is Overdue for Maintenance

Can’t remember the last time you had your septic tank pumped? For most Montana homes, that should happen every 3–5 years, depending on use. Neglect is one of the top causes of expensive failures.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

Don’t wait. Septic issues won’t fix themselves — and ignoring them only leads to higher repair costs and potential property damage.

At EC Industries, we offer:

• Septic site assessments

• Trenching and system installs

• Drain field rebuilds

• Professional excavation for repairs or replacements

Serving Missoula County, Seeley Lake & surrounding areas.

Worried your septic system is showing signs of failure? Contact us today for a local, reliable assessment and quote.