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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. 

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.

A septic system can fail for various reasons, and most commonly, excessive water use or sudden surges in wastewater can overwhelm the system's capacity. Neglecting regular maintenance, like tank pumping and inspections, can also lead to clogs, leaks, and eventual breakdowns. Other issues that lead to failure include age-related wear and tear, root infiltration, improper disposal of non-biodegradable materials or chemicals into the system, unsuitable soil conditions, physical damage, and even environmental factors like flooding or soil erosion.

Yes, a bigger well pump can increase water pressure—up to a point. If you currently have a well pump of 8 GPM, you might notice a pressure boost when you go up to 10 GPM. However, overshooting significantly (going up to 15 GPM for an 8 GPM home) can strain your well system and result in things like burst pipes that can decrease your water pressure and make for costly repairs.