What is a common indicator of system overload in an OSSF?

A common indicator of system overload in an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) is frequent backups or slow drainage in fixtures. This occurs when the system is unable to handle the volume of wastewater being produced, leading to blockages or insufficient flow. When the system is overloaded, it can become overwhelmed with the amount of sewage, causing water to back up into sinks, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures. This situation signals that the system may be clogged or that it is functioning beyond its intended capacity, which can lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.

Other factors related to system malfunction, such as excessive noise or frequent maintenance calls, may suggest problems but do not directly indicate an overload condition. High water usage in the household can contribute to system overload, but it does not always manifest as an immediate operational issue like backups or slow drainage does. In contrast, the frequent backups directly indicate that the system is struggling to manage the outflow, making it the clear primary indicator of overload.