Like any other underground drain system, septic systems can be vulnerable to root intrusion. Tree roots can explore a wide area beneath a tree for water and nutrients, leading them into some surprising areas. These roots can also be surprisingly nimble and strong, entering through small gaps and growing with enough force to break pipes.

Roots are a common cause of obstructions in sewer laterals, but they can be equally problematic in septic systems. Since the entire drainfield may be particularly attractive for root growth, roots can quickly spread through your drain system and even into your drain tiles. Roots may also infiltrate other parts of the septic system, such as the inlet or outlet drains for the septic tank.

How Do You Know If You Have a Tree Root Problem?  

Unfortunately, determining that you have a tree root problem is often easier said than done. Small roots that enter your drain lines may not initially cause problems since waste can easily flow around them. However, these roots can become a catching point for other solid waste, allowing obstructions to form slowly.

Roots will also inevitably grow, creating a larger obstruction and an even better catalyst for clogs. You'll likely notice your drains running more and more slowly over time, and you may even experience frequent clogs. Plunging or other basic drain-clearing methods may temporarily resolve the problem by breaking waste away from the root, only for it to return as a new clog forms.

Trees growing near your septic system are one potential indication of trouble, but a tree's root radius may be as large as seven times its drip line. In other words, trees far from your septic system may have roots invading your pipes. Unfortunately, the only way to know you have a root problem is to hire a professional drain cleaner to inspect the drain line.

What Makes Hydro Jetting an Effective Solution for Septic Systems?

Hydro jetting equipment is similar to a highly specialized power washer. These machines feature long, flexible hoses with powerful jet heads attached. Plumbers can adjust the pressure output and head design to deal with various clogs, and the flexible hose allows them to reach deep within even relatively narrow or twisting drain lines.

Since hydro jetting is a purely physical drain cleaning method, you don't have to worry about potentially causing damage to your septic system. Other options for removing roots typically involve chemical root killers, but these products may not be safe for the microfauna in your septic system. As a result, clearing the root may harm the bacteria in your tank or drainfield.

A plumber with experience in septic system drain cleaning can use a hydro jetting machine to blast roots from your pipes while minimizing the likelihood of damaging your septic system. Although hydro jetting may not work for all root problems, it's a safe and often effective first step that will help protect the most expensive parts of your septic system.

To find out more, contact hydro jet drain cleaning services.