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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.

Saving money on property taxes and having direct control over your waste system are both pros when buying a house with a septic tank. However, it’s easier on the house and the yard if a home can be hooked up to a municipal system, which is why septic tanks are best for homes where that isn’t an option. Expensive repairs, potential odor issues, and regular maintenance are all cons of septic systems. 

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.

It is generally safe to stay in a house that smells like sewage for a short time, but you should get the problem fixed as soon as possible. While the level of sewer gas is usually low enough to only cause minor symptoms, prolonged inhalation can lead to headaches, nausea, or respiratory irritation. High levels of gas exposure can be more dangerous, and high concentrations of methane—a component of sewer gas—can pose an explosion risk in enclosed spaces. If you smell sewer gas in your home, ventilate the area and call a professional to locate, assess, and fix the problem, as it will not go away on its own.