Begin by turning off any water sources such as faucets, dishwashers, or washing machines to prevent further water inflow into the plumbing system.

To clean up after the incident, use a disinfectant cleaner like Lysol or Pine Sol. Alternatively, you can create a bleach solution with one part bleach to nine parts water for effective cleaning. Any carpets affected by the backup should be thoroughly steam cleaned.

If you notice that only drains at higher elevations (like a second-floor bathroom) are backing up while those on lower levels are not, this could indicate an issue specific to that area of your plumbing system.

If the backup is situated at a lower elevation or is the nearest drain to the septic tank, it could indicate an issue with the septic system. It’s recommended to uncover the lid of the septic tank and open its inspection ports for examination. Normally, liquid levels in a well-functioning tank should be about 1 foot below its lid.

If you observe that this level is either equal to or less than this standard, it might suggest a blockage in pipes leading to your septic tank. In such cases, professional help from a plumber would be advisable. However, if you find that liquid levels are higher than usual, it means waste materials are reaching your tank but not being effectively transferred to the absorption field. This could be due to issues with any existing filter on your system.

If the system requires another backup within a few weeks of having the tank pumped, it’s probable that the issue lies with the absorption field. For further assistance, please reach out to Gwinnett County Environmental Health at 770.963.5132. An inspector will gladly guide you on how to secure a repair permit.