Why Does My Septic System Back Up When it Rains?

Are you having occasional septic system back ups with heavy rains? Is your drain field, or leach field, showing its age when it rains? How do you know when it’s a problem? Considering the rainy season in our area of Ohio will be upon us soon, it’s important to be able to distinguish between a temporary issue from a rare oversaturation of the ground and a sign your septic system needs to be pumped-out, cleaned or replaced.

A few things to know about your septic system back ups:

Do All Septic System Back Up When it Rains?

If your septic system is backing up when it rains, it could be a temporary, unavoidable issue that is not a big cause for concern or it could be a sign that your septic tank needs to be pumped-out, cleaned or replaced. Learn how to tell the difference and avoid unnecessary expenses for managing your septic system.

The quick answer is, No. Heavy rains should not cause you to have septic problems. If you notice issues with the leach field, or drain field, with a heavy rain, either ponding in the drain field or septic backing up into the house, it’s usually a sign that:

1) You need a septic system replacement.

When the rainfall is intense, the leach field is saturated with rainwater and isn’t able to work properly, that can be cause for alarm. It is a sign that a repair is needed. When Double Flush inspects the septic system we can schedule a pump-out and septic cleaning or repairs if necessary. We’ll also give you an honest assessment of the remaining life of your septic system and drain field status. Every septic system has a life expectancy and depending on how old your septic system is, this could be a sign that it has reached the end.

2) Header is not level.

Having your septic back up when it rains could also be a sign you’re in need of a simple septic repair. For example, it could mean that your header is not level so only a portion of the drain field, or leach field, is being used. By leveling the header you’ll use the whole drain field and stop experiencing the septic back ups when it rains.

THINGS THAT SHOULD NEVER GO IN YOUR SEPTIC TANK

REDUCE EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES WITH MAINTENANCE

You can do your part to keep your septic tank healthy and reduce the frequency of septic tank pumping. First, don’t put anything down your septic system that is non-biodegradable, such as cigarette butts, diapers, paper towels, and more. Plus, installing an effluent filter, which helps to decrease the number of solids that leave the tank helps promote your septic tank’s health.

EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area; are service area includes Erie, Lorain, Wayne, Portage, Summit, Stark and Medina Counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings. Our team offers efficient septic tank pumping, so we take up as little of your time as possible. We take our time to ensure your septic tank looks good and is in good shape for the future. Rest assured, when you partner with our local, family-owned septic company, your Northern Ohio home or business will be well served. Call to get started today!

We Strive to be the Best Septic Cleaning Company!

We aim to be the best septic services and septic cleaning company. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Albert Shannon 
 August 20, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Came through when needed
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Donna Eisenhardt 
 August 19, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joe , from Double Flush , was here early.  He completed the septic cleaning , cleaned up carefully, and was very professional!  I felt the price was very reasonable!  We will definitely use their services again!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Japclev 
 August 17, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Doubleflush came out twice to pump.   My socks in tank needed replaced.  They recommended ASI who completely ruined my system when they cleaned the socks. Then double flush recommend wires from septic be brought above ground and recommended a electrician who completely screwed the electrical with the septic. I feel that once I ripped ASI on review- double flush was purposely causing issues. Never using again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   charles McKee 
 August 14, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had tank pumped and cleaned by double flush. Excellent service and very friendly people. I definitely recommend them and will use them in the future
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Darlene Toth 
 August 10, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just moved to the house with septic system. Employee took time to explain several of our questions. Highly recommend!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Roger Schulte 
 August 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. On time prompt and very friendly
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Itchymoche2 
 August 6, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fast affordable service.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   itchymoche 
 August 6, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fast service at an affordable price. Highly recommended.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Andrew Szczepanik 
 August 4, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Scott was timely and extremely professional and personable. Our home was having backflow issues so we needed a flush quickly and Double Flush was able to accommodate. Scott followed up with us afterwards, explained the work that he did, and made sure we didn’t have any other questions. Price was reasonable as well. Highly recommend this company.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kate Postlethwait 
 August 3, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Blown away by the professionalism and quality of work they provide.  In a tight spot you can rely on these guys to get the job done