How Long Will My Septic System Last?

If your home is connected to an older septic system, you may find yourself wondering how long your system will last before it needs to be replaced. The good news is that a system can last for 40 years or more—but you may need to replace it much sooner than that.

Keep reading to learn the factors that affect how long a septic system lasts:

• Household size: The larger your household, the more frequently your septic system is used. If your tank receives too much water too quickly, the wastewater might be forced out of the tank and into the drain field before solids have settled. Any solids in the drain field can lead to premature failure and may necessitate replacement.
• Products you use: Harsh chemicals and septic systems don’t mix. In addition to damaging your pipes, chemicals down the drain can kill the bacteria in your septic system and reduce the system’s efficiency. Continually using harsh cleaners in your plumbing can drastically shorten your system’s lifespan.
• Type of tank: Another thing to consider is the material your tank is made out of. A concrete tank lasts 40 years, while steel tanks last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. When you’re asking yourself, “How long do plastic septic tanks last?” the answer is 30 to 40 years.
• Soil quality: The type of soil your tank is in determines how long the tank can last. Acidic groundwater in the soil can corrode a concrete septic tank, so it’s crucial that you choose the right tank for your property’s soil.

How can I prolong my system’s lifespan?

Wondering, “How long does a septic system last?” Keep in mind that this depends on how you treat it. Follow these tips to ensure you get the most out of your system before it needs to be replaced:

• Schedule regular maintenance: The best way to extend your system’s lifespan is to have it inspected once a year. An inspection will catch any issues before they worsen. Although you might have to pay for repairs, it’ll be cheaper than replacement. Additionally, have the tank pumped every three to five years.
• Watch what you flush: Along with watching what chemicals you pour down the drain, only flush waste and toilet paper. Anything other than waste and toilet paper can cause clogs in the system that may necessitate expensive repairs or even replacement.
• Protect the drain field: The drain field is responsible for releasing treated waste once it’s gone through the septic tank. If you plant trees near the field or park heavy vehicles on it, you can permanently damage the field. Obviously, permanent damage will necessitate replacing the entire field.

Need septic help? Call Cleveland Septic

If your septic tank is failing or if you need to schedule some routine septic maintenance, be sure to hire our pros at Cleveland Septic. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about how long you can expect your plastic septic tank to last.

Categorised in: Septic System Maintenance