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Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

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 size of your septic tank plays a role in determining the proper size of the drain or leach field. As a general rule, you should have 1 square foot of drain field size per gallon of septic tank capacity. However, you could install a leach field that’s as much as 2.5 square feet per gallon of septic tank capacity. Most professionals determine the right septic tank size and drain field size by the number of bedrooms in the house. A three-bedroom house needs a minimum 1,000-gallon septic tank, for example.

Septic tanks can clog if they aren’t pumped every few years since solid waste accumulates inside of them. Your tank might also clog if you have a habit of flushing anything other than human waste or toilet paper. Items like diapers, baby wipes, paper towels, cat litter, and personal hygiene products should never go down your pipes.

Septic tank odors can happen because of a few different issues with your septic system, such as a full tank, clogged drains, or blocked venting systems. Not only is a smelly septic tank pretty unpleasant, but it can also pose a potential hazard to yourself and your home. Toxic fumes could be hanging around, or untreated wastewater could be harming the environment.

Septic tank lids may or may not be buried in a yard. Most lids are buried at least 4 inches deep unless you have an aerobic septic system. Aerobic septic systems need frequent cleanings, about every four months, so it’s best to leave these lids aboveground for easier access. For buried lids, homeowners can use risers that make it easier to locate and access a buried septic tank lid.

The Berwick, LA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

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