Reduce water use now
An alarm commonly indicates a high liquid level in a pump chamber or a control problem. Stop laundry, dishwashing, long showers, and other heavy water use. This creates time for diagnosis and reduces the chance of sewage surfacing or backing up.
Safe observations
- Check whether a recent power outage occurred
- Look for a tripped breaker without repeatedly resetting it
- Note whether the alarm light remains on
- Observe wet or odorous ground from a safe distance
- Write down recent pumping or repair work
Call the right professional
A certified septic operator, installer, or service technician can test floats, pumps, wiring, controls, and the discharge system. Pumping the chamber may create temporary capacity, but it does not correct the underlying fault.
Important: Keep people and pets away from tank lids and any wastewater on the ground. Never enter a septic tank or pump chamber.