Septic Drain Backups in Richlands, NC | Wild Water Plumbing
Living in Richlands has its charm — wide open spaces, quiet neighborhoods, and plenty of rural character.
But one thing I see over and over again as a plumber is that homes on septic systems are more vulnerable to clogged drains and backups.
I’m Justin Wilder, owner of Wild Water Plumbing, and I want to share what I’ve learned about septic issues in Richlands so you’ll know the signs, the causes, and when to call for help.
Why Septic Systems Are Common in Richlands
Rural Infrastructure
Unlike Jacksonville and some larger towns, many Richlands homes aren’t tied into a municipal sewer. That means each property relies on its own septic tank and drain field.
Extra Stress on Systems
Larger families, heavy laundry loads, and even garbage disposals can overwhelm septic systems faster than people realize.
Older Installations
Some tanks and drain fields in Richlands have been in service for decades, and that age shows when backups start to appear.
What Causes Septic Drain Backups?
Excessive Solids
When too much solid waste goes down the drain, the tank can’t separate and break it down fast enough, leading to clogs.
Flushing the Wrong Items
Wipes, feminine products, and even paper towels don’t break down like toilet paper. I’ve pulled plenty of these from Richlands septic lines.
Grease and Kitchen Waste
Grease doesn’t just clog city drains — in septic systems, it floats and forms a thick cap that blocks the tank from working properly.
Tree Root Infiltration
In rural properties, tree roots can invade septic lines and cause blockages that lead to messy backups inside the home.
Warning Signs of a Septic Backup
- Multiple drains clogging at the same time
- Gurgling toilets and sinks
- Water pooling in the yard near the drain field
- Sewage odors inside or outside the home
- Slow drains that return quickly after DIY fixes
If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. A septic backup isn’t just inconvenient — it’s a serious health hazard.
Why You Need a Professional
When septic systems back up, pouring chemicals or trying to snake the line won’t solve the real problem.
In fact, harsh cleaners can damage the delicate bacteria balance in your tank.
Here’s how I handle it at Wild Water Plumbing:
- Camera inspections to see inside the septic line
- Safe clearing tools that won’t damage pipes
- System checks to identify tank or drain field issues
- Maintenance advice to keep the system healthy long-term
Final Thoughts
Septic drain backups in Richlands can happen to anyone even if you’re careful.
The key is spotting the warning signs early and calling a professional before it turns into an emergency.
If your drains are clogging, your toilets are gurgling, or you’re smelling sewage around your home, call me, Justin Wilder at Wild Water Plumbing.
I’ll diagnose the problem, clear the blockage, and make sure your septic system is running the way it should.