Emergency Septic Services: What Counts as an Emergency and How to Respond
Septic issues never seem to happen at a convenient time. Whether it's a holiday weekend or late at night, a sudden backup or foul odor can leave you wondering — is this a true emergency?
Knowing when to call for emergency septic services can help prevent major damage to your home and yard, protect your health, and avoid bigger repair bills down the road. In this post, we’ll walk through the signs of a septic emergency, what causes them, how to respond, and when to call in the experts at Townes Septic Services.
What Is a Septic Emergency?
A septic emergency is any situation where your system fails or malfunctions in a way that poses a risk to your home, health, or property. Unlike routine maintenance or minor slowdowns, these issues often require immediate action.
Common septic emergencies include:
Sewage backup into your home (toilets, sinks, bathtubs)
Standing water or sewage pooling in your yard
Strong sewage odors inside or around the home
Gurgling drains or toilets when water is used elsewhere
Drainage completely stopped in all plumbing fixtures
If any of these signs appear suddenly and affect your ability to safely use plumbing, you’re likely dealing with an emergency.
What Causes Septic Emergencies?
Septic emergencies can result from a number of underlying issues, often related to poor maintenance or environmental factors:
Overfull septic tanks from delayed pumping
Clogs in inlet/outlet pipes or distribution boxes
Collapsed or broken lines from root intrusion or shifting soil
Drainfield failure due to oversaturation or soil compaction
Excessive water use overwhelming the system, especially during holidays or storms
Often, a problem that builds slowly can hit a breaking point — which is why regular inspections and pumping are so important.
What to Do When You Suspect a Septic Emergency
If you think you’re experiencing a septic emergency, here’s what to do:
Stop using water immediately. Shut off washing machines, dishwashers, and limit flushing or draining water into the system.
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners. These can harm your septic system and delay proper repairs.
Keep people and pets away from any standing water or exposed waste.
Call a professional septic service like Townes Septic right away. We’re equipped to handle urgent situations and can dispatch quickly across New Hampshire.
Don’t try to inspect the tank or dig around the system yourself — improper handling can make the problem worse or expose you to health hazards.
When to Call Townes Septic Services
We understand that septic problems don’t follow a 9-5 schedule. Townes Septic offers fast, responsive emergency septic services for homeowners across New Hampshire.
We can:
Diagnose and clear blockages
Pump your septic tank urgently
Address drainfield or pipe failures
Provide temporary fixes to prevent further damage
Offer follow-up repairs and long-term solutions
Our experienced team is equipped with the tools and knowledge to get your system back on track — day or night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Septic Services
How do I know if it’s an emergency or just a clog?
If only one drain is slow or backing up, it could be a plumbing issue. If multiple fixtures are backing up or you see sewage outside, it’s likely a septic emergency.
What happens if I ignore a septic backup?
Wastewater backups can cause floor damage, contaminate your home, and create serious health risks. It's best to shut off water and call for help right away.
Do I need to leave my home during a septic emergency?
Most emergencies don’t require evacuation, but you should avoid using the plumbing and stay clear of any areas with standing sewage.
Can you pump my tank after hours?
Yes. Townes Septic Services offers emergency pumping services and will do our best to respond promptly, even after hours or on weekends.
Final Thoughts on Septic Emergencies
Septic issues are more than just inconvenient — when left unchecked, they can become dangerous and expensive. Knowing the warning signs of a septic emergency and acting quickly can protect your home, health, and property value.
Whether you’re facing a sudden backup or unsure if it’s time to call, Townes Septic Services is here to help. Our responsive team is just a phone call away and ready to handle urgent issues throughout New Hampshire.
Need Help Now? Don’t Wait.
Call Townes Septic Services at (603) 691-2439 or request emergency service online. We’re here when you need us.