Almost every house, essentially those located in rural areas that cannot access the municipal sewer line system, has a septic tank installed. These systems efficiently manage wastewater. Certain practices must be owned to maintain a healthy working environment for the septic tank. Knowing how long your septic system should last and how you can estimate its remaining time is crucial, especially regarding its functionality. This blog will address some essential queries related to the septic system.
Understanding the Lifespan of a Septic System
Several factors influence the lifetime of a septic system. A sound system usually lasts two to four decades; some can perform longer. Installing it properly, scheduling maintenance, and using it thoughtfully can increase lifespan.
- Material of the Septic Tank
The material of your septic tank plays a significant role in determining how long your system will last:
- Concrete septic tanks are the standard type and are famous for their simplicity and endurance. The pros of concrete septic tanks include the potential to have the most extended lifespan of about 40 years and above.
- People are less likely to install a steel tank due to its propensity for rusting. However, steel tanks tend to be in good working condition for about 20 to 30 years before degenerating.
- Septic tanks made of plastic and fibreglass resist rust and corrosion and are suitable for acidic soils. They can efficiently run for about 30 to 40 years if maintained well.
- Soil Quality and Drainage
The nature of the soil around the septic system determines the kind of system you settle for and its longevity. Soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, facilitate the dispersion of wastewater and thereby lessen the pressure on the system. If the soil is clayey or the drainage is poor, the basement area could fill up, causing an early system breakdown.
- Water Usage Habits
Water use in your home directly impacts the function of the septic system. Excessive water usage causes the system to take a lot of load, which can wear out the system quickly. Immediately fixing leaking taps, using efficient water, and allowing some time between laundries can help extend the life span of your septic system.
- Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential to extending its lifespan. Depending on the tank size and the number of people in the home, it should be pumped every 3 to 5 years. Lack of service results in choked-up systems, backup and total system failure, and reduced life span.
Signs Your Septic System May Be Nearing the End
A septic system in proper working condition can last two to five decades, but nothing lasts forever. These indicators can help you know when to expect repairs or replacement of your septic system before it fails.
- Slow Drains and Backups
If your sinks, showers, toilets, or even your sewer are draining slower than usual or producing a sign of regular backup, then this could be a clear sign that your septic system is struggling. Even if maintenance can fix these problems, your system is already old and nearing its end.
- Foul Odors
Septic systems that are working as they should do not have any stench associated with them. Sewer smells are also easy to identify. Smelling sewage or other unpleasant odors around the house, near the septic tank or drain field, indicates that you should seek the services of a professional. This could mean the fuel tank is full, a leakage, or failure in the system.
- Lush, Green Grass
If you have excess lush green growth over your septic tank or drain field, it could mean that wastewater is coming out. This may be because of a compromising system. This excess moisture can culminate in system failure, so it has to be dealt with instantly.
- Standing Water
Water or pooling around the drainage field or the septic tank is a strict sign that your septic system is failing. This may be due to a blockage or failure of the drain field, a significant septic system component. If you see standing water, you should call a specialist immediately.
Estimating Your System’s Remaining Time
Three crucial factors must be considered when calculating a septic system’s life expectancy. If you have relocated to a house with a septic system, try to get records of its maintenance and inspection. A professional inspection can also reveal valuable information about the quality of the current system and how long it will last.
Age of the System
The longer a system has been in operation, the nearer it is to become obsolete. However, some systems can last longer than the average expectancy if routine maintenance and care are given.
Maintenance History
The septic system’s lifespan largely depends on the regularity of pumping and inspection. If these have been done appropriately, the septic system will last longer than expected. Sourcing the records of its maintenance can help one get a feel for what to anticipate.
Current Condition
The only way to determine your septic system’s condition is to seek a professional to inspect it and advise you accordingly. They can tell what mechanical condition the system is in, what problems will likely develop soon, and how many more months or years it can serve.
Role of Professional Maintenance and Cleaning
Apart from the septic tank, other home installations should be checked regularly. This includes your garburator, which, if clogged or dirty, can cause plumbing problems that lead to poor functioning of the septic system. Seeking professional help is essential in addressing an underlying problem effectively and efficiently. They can skillfully help in:
- Preventing Clogs: If a garburator is not maintained correctly, it will clog, which puts pressure on the septic system.
- Extending System Life: You can extend the expected life of your septic system by taking care of all aspects of your plumbing, including the garburator.
- Providing Expert Advice: One of the most significant advantages of hiring professionals is that they can advise you on maintaining your garburator and septic system without repairing or replacing them.
Conclusion
A septic system can be considered a significant investment in your home’s infrastructure, and having it well-maintained can serve you for many years. It is essential to be aware of the factors that impact your system’s longevity and identify signs that it has failed. The only things you need to take care of here are timely service by a professional and pumping the septic tank at predetermined intervals.
If you experience problems with the septic system or if it is time to inspect it, it is time to look for a professional service. Umbrella Waterproofing deals in waterproofing and foundation repair to ensure the safety of your home. Coming up with an early solution may save the cost of expensive repairs and make your septic system work for an extended time.
