Algae Blooms & Septic System Issues: What to Know

What Causes Algae Blooms in Late Summer?

Algae blooms usually pop up when the weather is hot and many nutrients are in the water, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients can come from fertilizers, animal waste, or—you guessed it—failing septic systems. When wastewater isn’t handled properly, it can leak into nearby water sources. That’s when nature starts to react, and algae can grow out of control.

So, while not all algae blooms are caused by septic problems, they can be one of the signs to look out for.

How Does a Septic System Work?

Before we go deeper, it helps to understand what your septic system does. It’s like a private sewage treatment plant for your home. Wastewater flows from your house into a septic tank buried underground. There, solids settle to the bottom and liquids drain into a leach field where the soil filters them.

However, untreated waste can escape when the tank gets too full or something goes wrong, like a broken pipe or a soggy drain field. That’s when you might start seeing algae blooms nearby.

This is why regular septic pumping in Apopka, FL is so important. If solids build up too much, the system can’t do its job, and things overflow or leak.

Signs Your Septic System Might Be Failing

Besides algae blooms, there are some other signs to watch for that might point to septic trouble:

• Grass is growing faster and greener near the drain field
• Slow drains or gurgling toilets
• Bad smells are coming from the yard
• Water pooling above the tank or leach field
• Sewage backup in your home

If you notice one or more of these issues, it might be time to call a septic company for a closer inspection. Septic Blue of Orlando has helped many homeowners identify problems before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems.

How Septic Failures Lead to Algae Blooms

When septic systems leak or overflow, they release nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen into the soil. These nutrients can wash into streams, ponds, or lakes, especially after heavy rain. Once there, they become food for algae, causing it to grow fast.

This is especially common in late summer when water levels are low and temperatures are high, perfect conditions for algae to bloom.

That’s why septic cleaning and inspections matter. A well-maintained system is far less likely to leak or overflow, and keeping things clean underground helps protect the environment above ground.

How to Prevent Septic-Related Algae Blooms

Here’s the good news—you can do a lot to prevent these problems. Start with these simple steps:

1. Get Regular Septic Pumping

Most homes need septic pumping every 3 to 5 years, depending on how many people live in the house and how much water is used. A full tank is more likely to leak or back up.

2. Schedule Routine Septic Cleaning

Professional septic cleaning helps remove sludge and scum that might clog your system. It keeps everything flowing smoothly and reduces the risk of leaks.

3. Watch What Goes Down the Drain

Avoid flushing wipes, grease, or harsh chemicals. These can damage your system and cause clogs or other issues.

4. Protect the Drain Field

Don’t park cars or plant trees on top of the drain field. Tree roots can break pipes, and heavy weight can crush them.

5. Get Regular Inspections

A licensed septic company can inspect your system to ensure everything works properly. They’ll spot small issues before they turn into big ones.

Septic Blue of Orlando offers expert inspections and service to help keep your system running right year-round.

Why It Matters for the Environment

Aside from protecting your home, taking care of your septic system helps protect your local environment. Algae blooms don’t just look gross—they can be harmful. They block sunlight, lower oxygen levels in the water, and can kill fish and other aquatic life. Some types even produce toxins that can hurt pets, wildlife, and people.

So, when you take care of your septic system, you’re helping yourself and your whole community.

Take Care of Your Septic System Today

If you’ve seen algae blooms nearby or are unsure when your system was last checked, don’t wait. A small step today could save you a big mess tomorrow. Contact a trusted septic company to schedule an inspection, septic pumping, or cleaning service.

Septic Blue of Orlando is here to help you keep your system healthy, your yard safe, and your water clean. Stay ahead of septic problems—your nose, your wallet, and the environment will thank you!