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Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

You only need to pump the septic tank. The leach field allows the liquid and waste to naturally seep into the ground, so there’s no need to pump the leach field. You should call a local septic tank pumping service to remove the materials from the tank every three to five years. Without pumping the septic tank occasionally, solids could flow into the leach field pipes and clog them.

Most septic tanks need to be emptied every 3 to 5 years, but it’s a good idea to monitor the fill levels of your septic tank all the time. You can do this by installing a pressure level sensor to detect the internal tank pressure, or by having a septic tank company perform an annual inspection to let you know when you’ll need to pump the tank.

The efficacy of a drain field depends on a wide variety of factors, though a well-maintained one can last as long as 40 or 50 years. Of the different types of septic tanks on the market, concrete and plastic tanks tend to last the longest—upwards of 40 years if they’re pumped regularly—while steel tanks have a tendency to rust over time and may need to be replaced after 15 or 20 years.

When your septic system is failing, you’ll probably smell it. Common signs of a septic system failure include sewage odors in the home or around the yard, flooding in the yard above the septic tank or in the leach field, and wastewater or even raw sewage backing up into your home’s drains.

A septic system's lifespan typically ranges from 15 to 40 years, with a common average of 20 to 30 years. The longevity heavily depends on the tank's material, maintenance diligence, and usage habits. With proper care, lifespans can reach the upper end of this range.

Lifespan by Tank Material:

  • Concrete: 20 to 40 years

  • Plastic or Fiberglass: 30 to 40 years

  • Steel: 15 to 20 years

To maximize your system's lifespan, follow these maintenance best practices:

  • Regular Pumping and Inspections: Have the tank pumped every three to five years and schedule professional inspections regularly.

  • Mindful Usage: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid putting items like cat litter, paper towels, cigarette butts, fats, grease, oils, or coffee grounds down your drains.

  • Avoid Chemicals: Do not pour harsh chemicals into the system.

  • Water Conservation: Reduce the amount of wastewater your system has to process.

  • Protect the Drain Field: Avoid driving or building heavy structures over the drain field area.

The Sidell, IL homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.