Have you just found the home of your dreams and discovered
it has a septic system? If you're not accustomed to the ins and outs of this
particular waste disposal structure, the prospect of septic ownership and
maintenance can seem intimidating. Fortunately, septic systems aren't as
daunting an operation as they seem.
Septic tanks are fairly common, as one
out of every five homes
in the country uses one. Learn what you'll need to
know as you consider a house with a septic tank on the property.
A Septic System Differs From Community Sewage Systems
Every household produces waste, but waste disposal varies.
Municipal sewage systems, like those common in both urban and suburban areas,
manage the waste of an entire region. Septic systems, on the other hand, only
manage the waste from a single household.
In both systems, waste from sinks, toilets, and showers goes
down the drain, but septic systems drain through pipes and into a container
only within property boundaries.
A Septic System Is Separate From the Water Supply
Though septic systems deal with water waste, they're an
entirely separate entity from the water that flows into your home. In rural
areas, properties often have both a septic system and a well or drinking water
system on the property.
However, local laws and guidelines prevent septic components
from being a certain distance away from drinking water systems to prevent the
risk of water contamination.
A Septic System Requires You to Watch Your Disposal
Habits
To protect your septic system from clogs and blockages, you
will need to take a closer look at what goes down the drain. These systems can
handle a variety of waste types, but some things should never make their way
into the pipes, including:
- String,
floss, or excess hair
- Oils
or grease
- Paint
or other harsh chemicals
- Hygiene
products (including diapers, sanitary napkins, and tampons)
- Grainy
substances, such as cat litter or coffee grounds
- Non-biodegradable
substances, such as plastic
A Septic System Can Save You Money
Because you don't have to tap into the municipal utility
system, you won't see a bill from the city's sewer services as long as you have
a septic tank on your property. These savings may not seem like much, but
because public sewer expenses are typically packaged into your property taxes,
the savings can add up.
A Septic System Requires Some Maintenance
Septic tanks, when well-maintained, last for decades without
replacement or major repair. This maintenance, however, is required every few
years. Only allow a trusted, well-trained professional to do maintenance, as
well as regular inspection. Pump septic tanks every three to five years, and
make swift repairs to handle any clogs, blockages, or suspected leaks.
A Septic System May Require an Upgrade Down the Road
While septic tanks can hold up for decades, they will
eventually need replacement. Also, if you upgrade your home's footprint or find
that your household produces more waste than your system can manage, some local
rules require that your system get an upgrade. That way, you ensure the system
can keep up with the size of your home and household.
A Septic System Can Keep You Off-Grid
If homestead and off-grid life appeals to you, then a septic
system is one major step in that direction. The quiet of the countryside
appeals to many, and the prospect of calling a beautiful, rural area home,
especially when far away from other cities and towns with utilities, is
possible with a self-contained septic system for your rural property.
A Septic System Needs an Inspection Before You Make a
Decision
Your region may require it, but even if it isn't mandatory,
inspect a home's septic system before you submit an offer. An inspection can
tell you the age, the integrity of, and the status of the system so you know
what you are getting into. Ask for the past inspection records as well.
To schedule an inspection for or for further
questions about your septic system, contact the professionals at
Pete's Outflow Technicians.
With proper care, you'll have a waste disposal system to last you and your
family for years.
