Once you have the correct capacity septic system in place, don't forget about it! With proper maintenance, a septic system can last for 20 to 30 years. Maintenance involves good daily habits as well as regular inspections and pumping of accumulated solids out of the septic tank. Responsible maintenance also calls for using your system to dispose only of the types and amounts of wastes that it's actually designed to handle.
Why Maintain Your System?
There are three important health reasons for maintaining your septic system. The first reason is the health of your pocket book. Poor maintenance results in failed systems requiring repairs at minimum-and sometimes system replacement. Repairs or replacement costs can be thousands of dollars, whereas a periodic inspection and pumping costs about $150 to $250.
The second reason is the health of your family, your community, and the environment. Untreated sewage water contains disease-causing bacteria and viruses, as well as unhealthy amounts of nitrate and other chemicals. Failed septic systems can allow untreated sewage to seep into wells, groundwater and surface water, contaminating water meant for drinking and recreation.
The third reason is the health of your local economy. Contamination from failed septic systems pollutes water supplies, closes shellfish beds and recreational areas and creates offensive odors. Quality of life, recreational opportunities and tourism decline, and, with them, property values and the economic vitality of an area decline as well.
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