What is the average life of my septic tank?

septic tank lifespan: The average life of a conventional septic tank is 20 to 30 years. The 20-30 year life, often cited in the industry, applies to properly designed and built, properly maintained, and non-overloaded systems. However, there are many factors that can increase or decrease the useful life of your system beyond this range.

Generally, a septic tank may last for 40 years and complains rise after 20 years of working of septic tank, although life may be increased.

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The first component that fails in septic tank systems is usually the leachate field (drainage field). The size of the drainage area depends on the number of bedrooms, assuming 2 people per bedroom. Therefore, the drainage with three bedrooms is designed for six people. If all are equal, an underutilized drain will last longer than a frequently used drain. If only two people use a three-bedroom system, use a low-flow faucet and equipment, and pump the system on a regular basis, the life of the system will be extended.

Systems used seasonally also need to have a long life. Draining chemicals, grease, and food debris into drains shortens the life of your system. Garbage disposal system should be used only and only when it is designed with the tank.

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The other major component in the septic tank is its construction material.A concrete tank should last for 40 years at minimum. Steel tanks fail in 20 to 30 years and goodquality plastic tanks last from 30-40 years.

Extend septic system life:

It is extended with regular pumping of septic tank. Extend the life of septic tanks through regular pumping, water saving, and wise maintenance. Many factors affect the life of a system. Some things, such as system design and installation, soil type, etc., are out of control.

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Other things like proper care and maintenance are entirely under the control of the homeowner. With proper maintenance and care of the system, its lifespan can be extended by years or even decades.

The most important factors that homeowners can control are regular pumps, conservation of water around the house, and attention to what flows into the drains. No harsh chemicals, paints, greases, leftovers or other solids.

It is also important to protect the drainage area from damage. Drain the garden and roof water directly from the drain to prevent soil saturation.

Do not drive, park or use in any way that compresses the soil. Also, keep trees and large shrubs at a safe distance, as roots can clog perforated drains. Grass is the best ground cover.

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ReplacementCost:

Drain field failure happens only when the soil around the trenches get blocked by bio mat (naturally formed) and the pores are clogged and thus solids and grease spill out of the septic tank (due to highvolume water usage and inadequate pumping).

The first signs of failure are: Sluggish drainage, back- up on the lower floors of home and soggy areas over the leach field which might like sewage.

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