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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.

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. 

If your leach field becomes clogged or saturated, it can cause several problems with your home's septic system. The clog can cause sewage to back up into your home, leading to unpleasant odors and mess. A backed-up septic system can be a health hazard, particularly if the sewage starts to leach into the ground surrounding the leach field.

There are several ways to fix a saturated drain field, including cleaning out your septic tank, adding enzymes and additives to your drain system, and installing a larger septic system.

On average, you should call a pro to pump your cesspool once per year. If you have a larger home with a lot of family members, you may need to pump more (up to six times per year). On the flip side, if you’re talking about a cesspool for a home you don’t use much or if you’re the only occupant in a home, you won’t have to pump nearly as much.