
Inside the house
- Slow drains in several fixtures
- Gurgling sounds in pipes
- Toilets that back up or flush slowly
- Sewage smell indoors
Outside
- Wet, spongy ground over the tank or field
- Standing water or sewage on the surface
- Strong odors in the yard
- Unusually green, lush grass over the field in dry weather

What to do
- Cut water use right away
- Keep people and pets away from wet areas
- Have the tank pumped and checked
- Call (505) 886-7941 if problems continue
Health and safety
Surfacing sewage is a health hazard and can affect wells. Don't wait on it.
Septic questions
Will pumping fix my problem?
If the tank was just full, yes. If the field has failed, pumping helps only briefly.
Can a failing system contaminate my well?
It can be a risk, which is why setbacks and repairs matter.
Is it always a full replacement?
No — sometimes it's a line, a filter or a distribution box.