What are typical indications that a mound system is failing?

A mound system is designed to treat and disperse wastewater in areas where the soil may not be suitable for a conventional system. Typical indications of a failing mound system include foul odors, standing water, and surfacing effluent. When these symptoms are present, they suggest that the system is not functioning properly and may be unable to effectively treat wastewater.

Foul odors often indicate that the system is saturated or backed up, leading to anaerobic conditions which can produce unpleasant smells. Standing water may signal that the mound or the absorption field is overwhelmed, indicating insufficient drainage or a blockage within the system. Surfacing effluent is a direct sign that the system is experiencing overflow or that the effluent is not being adequately absorbed into the surrounding soil, which poses a risk of contamination and is indicative of a critical failure in the treatment process.

In contrast, healthy plant growth and no odors, excessive water flow with clear effluent, and low water levels with no surface evidence would suggest that the system is functioning properly or is not exhibiting the critical signs of failure associated with a mound system.