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You can check your own septic tank, but take precautions. Locate the access lid, usually buried a few inches underground, and remove it carefully. Look for the sludge and scum levels, and if they’re high, that means pumping may be necessary. Check for odors, slow drains, or pooling water around the drain field, which could indicate issues. Never enter the tank, as toxic gases can be fatal. All of that being said, a professional inspection is safer and more thorough.

The main difference between a mound septic system and a conventional one is that the drain field in a mound system is built up into a mound composed of sand and gravel to increase the filtration time the wastewater sees before it is returned to the aquifer. There’s also a significant cost difference, with mound systems typically costing far more than standard septic systems.

Well water is often assumed to be hard because of its high mineral content. Hard water can lead to mineral build-up in your pipes and appliances. You can manage hard water by installing a whole-house filter system. These systems can help extend the life of your water-reliant appliances like your hot water tank and dishwasher. 

A septic tank lid is often 1 foot underground, but it could be just 4 inches from the surface or 4 feet deep. For septic tank lids that are closer to the surface, you’ll have an easier time locating them just by looking for signs in the yard or using a metal probe. But for septic tanks that are buried deeper underground, you’ll need to hire a pro with specialized equipment to track down the lid without risk of damaging utility lines.