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A mound septic system, when properly maintained, can last between 20 and 25 years on average—though some last longer or malfunction sooner than that. The most important part of maintenance is getting an annual inspection of the vital parts of the system to ensure they’re in proper working order and not too backed up with sewage.

Most well pump pressure switches have a factory setting of 30 to 50 PSI. There’s some flexibility with this if you’d like a lower or higher water pressure, but remember that it should sit 2 to 3 PSI above your well tank’s general pressure setting.

The inside of your pressure switch cover will usually indicate minimum and maximum settings—going below and above the numbers might damage your well pump.

A properly installed and maintained septic drain field (also known as a leach field) can last up to 50 years, though the average is around 20 years. However, factors like poor soil conditions, heavy usage, or improper maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan to 15-20 years.

To extend the life of your drain field:

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Have the entire septic system, including the drain field, inspected every two to five years to catch problems early.

• Protect the Area: Avoid driving heavy vehicles or placing heavy structures over the drain field. Plant only grass or other lightweight vegetation with shallow roots over the area.

• Maintain the Septic Tank: Proper care of the septic tank, including regular pumping and avoiding harmful chemicals, prevents strain on the drain field.

Be aware of signs of failure, such as strange odors, standing water, or unusually lush grass over the field, which indicate your system may need professional attention.

While not strictly necessary for your septic system to operate, septic tank risers are a highly beneficial and wise choice for homeowners. They provide easy access to your tank, which makes regular maintenance, inspections, and addressing issues significantly easier and less labor-intensive. By eliminating the need for repeated excavation to locate the tank, risers can save you money, labor, and energy in the long run. This easy access allows you to proactively manage your septic system, addressing potential problems before they become costly and ensuring the system's longevity. Additionally, some local regulations may require risers, and installing them can help you avoid potential fines or penalties.