Maintaining Your Septic System

Septic systems are the responsibility of the homeowner; this means it is your job to keep your system working properly. You may ask yourself, why should I maintain my system? Just like a car, your septic system requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. By maintaining your system, you are protecting human health and the environment, and most importantly extending the life of your system (saving you money in the long run).
For instance, it is less expensive to maintain your system by getting regular inspections and pump-outs than it is to have your system replaced. Failing septic systems are expensive to repair or replace. Your septic tank should be pumped clean of sludge and scum every three to five years depending on your level of use. Often, seasonal cottages need pumped out less frequently (every 4-5 years) than permanent residences (every 3 years).It is equally as important to have regular septic system inspections to ensure that septic system components, like baffles and filters, are working properly and are not damaged. It is more cost efficient to maintain your septic system, then to ignore it and have to replace it later on.

Also, you can protect the environment and human health by taking good care of your system. Typical pollutants in household wastewater include nitrogen, phosphorus, and disease causing bacteria and viruses. If a septic system is working properly it will remove most of these pollutants. However, a failed septic system will inadequately treat sewage and may cause groundwater contamination as the pollutants leach into the groundwater. Human health and drinking water could be threatened if pollutants reach nearby wells. Everyone must play a role in protecting drinking water sources, maintaining your septic system is an excellent way to start!

Keep in mind that septic systems have a typical lifespan of 15 to 25 years; however, by maintaining all aspects of your system you can maximize the lifespan of your system. There are many steps homeowners can take to keep their system functioning properly and lasting longer.