How Long Does a Septic System Last?
If you’re putting in a new septic system, it’s natural to wonder, “How long do septic systems last?”
The short answer is, anywhere from 15 to 40 years. The long answer is that there are many factors that impact the long-term life of your septic system.
Regular Maintenance Makes a Big Difference
The first factor is, you guessed it – septic tank maintenance. We know we say this all the time, but regular maintenance makes a big difference in how long your septic system lasts and how well it functions. If you are installing a new system, set a reminder for yourself every couple of years to pump and clean your septic tank (more often if you have a large household or use a lot of water regularly.) Just the simple act of pumping your tank on the recommended schedule ensures that your tank stays in working order, and, if there is a septic system problem, a professional septic tank pumper will catch it before it becomes a catastrophic issue.
The second factor in the life of your septic system is the original installation choices. If you’re buying a property with a septic already installed, there’s not much you can do about those choices (although knowing what they are will inform your maintenance decisions.)
Think Through Your Septic Tank Materials to Avoid Problems
But if you’re installing a new system, think through your septic tank materials, drain field installation, and more. These sound like boring choices to make, but they can be the difference between a long-lasting, clean-working septic system and broken-down septic which will cause problems and expensive re-installation or repairs in the future.