One of the most common questions among homeowners is, “How long will my septic system last?” The truth is, the lifespan of a septic tank depends on a lot of different things. Factors include the system quality, system maintenance, and how hard you use it.
Let’s take a closer look.
The Lifespan of a Septic Tank
A septic tank’s lifespan will vary based on its material. The average lifespan of a steel tank is anywhere from 20-30 years, while a plastic tank might last 30-40 years. A properly-installed concrete tank will typically last for as long as you treat it well.
Factors that Affect the Life of Your Septic System
Level of maintenance
If you aren’t properly maintaining your septic system, you run the risk of undo wear or small problems becoming big ones.
For the homeowner, septic tank maintenance typically involves keeping your eyes and ears open for potential problems. Don’t ignore strange sounds, random leaks, or slowly-running toilets.
If your system doesn’t appear to be operating at maximum efficiency, look into it. Taking the time to properly care for and maintain your system will go a long way in extending its lifespan.
System care (don’t flush things that shouldn’t be flushed)
Another important part of septic system maintenance is taking care of the pipes. Partially or fully clogged pipes can lead to a shorter lifespan.
To ensure that your septic system is running smoothly and efficiently, you should only flush one thing. Only flush toilet paper! Nothing else should enter your pipes. That includes paper towels, baby wipes, and feminine products.
Professional tune-ups
To prolong the life of your septic system, you need to schedule routine tune-ups by a licensed septic professional. Not only will that ensure everything works properly, it could protect you from unexpected expenses.
It’s always better for a professional to discover an issue before it does great damage.
System quality
Most important, invest in high-quality septic system. Also, make absolutely sure that your septic installation company is of the highest caliber. Your local plumber or septic cleaning company can recommend a reputable installer.
Norway Septic Inc. is a service-oriented company dedicated to providing excellent septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. We take pride in doing the job that others leave behind. If you have further questions or if you would like to schedule a system inspection by one of our professionals, call us today.
