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How deep your septic system needs to be into the ground depends on several factors. In extremely cold environments, the tank needs to rest below the maximum frost line, which can be up to six or eight feet deep. The standard burying depth for most systems is between a few inches and four feet below ground level. Depth can also depend on the slope of the landscaping and other property variables. 

How to size a well pressure tank is determined by three factors: flow rate, or how many gallons per minute your well pump produces; minimum runtime; and pressure switch setting. Most pressure tanks have a pressure switch operating at 20/40, 30/50, and 40/60—the first number is the pressure needed for the pump to turn on, and the second number is the pressure needed for the pump to switch off. Most homeowners relying on well water require a water pressure tank ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. 

Septic drain lines (or leach lines) are typically buried between 18 and 36 inches underground, and should be at least 6 inches below the surface. These pipes are perforated and surrounded by filtering materials like sand or gravel. Burying the lines at this depth helps minimize odors and allows bacteria and other biological processes in the soil to effectively treat the wastewater. Burying lines too close to the surface can cause issues unless the soil is very compact and stable.

On average, septic systems last between 15 and 20 years. However, with proper care and routine septic maintenance, you may be able to extend your septic system’s life span to 30 years (or more). Some ways to keep your system in tip-top shape include scheduling a professional inspection every two to five years and reducing the flow of wastewater into your system.