Do I Need A New Septic Tank?

Septic tanks typically last 20 to 40 years, though some can last even longer. As long as meticulous maintenance and frequent inspections are carried out, replacing a septic tank is a rare occurrence within that lifespan. Here are a few of the more serious issues that could necessitate the installation of a new septic tank.

Patchy Grass

Patches of grass that suddenly grow more vibrantly can indicate some issues when grass covers a septic tank and drain field. The grass or small plants that grow above the system can be watered or fertilized in an unhygienic way by a wastewater leak. Even though patchy grass might not smell bad, it is preferable to get it inspected by an expert.

Increasing Size of Home

The lifespan of a septic tank will be impacted by home expansion or an increase in water demand due to more people living there. The size of the house is the primary determinant of the size of a septic tank. These are significant elements that may have an impact on whether the septic tank is big enough to hold the house.

Standing Water

The only culprit left for the additional water that is visible on a portion of a property without being a strong downpour, broken sprinkler line, or overflowing river is probably an oversaturated drain field, a broken pipe, or a septic tank. The extra liquid may contain bacteria since it is not being properly absorbed by the soil.

Contaminated Water Sources

If a septic tank leaks poorly, waste water could end up contaminating local water supplies. It's crucial to determine whether your septic tank is the source of the contamination if nitrate, nitrite, or coliform bacteria are found in nearby natural water sources.

Slow Draining

Because there is less room for the pipes to drain naturally with gravity if the septic tank is overfilled, all pipes will drain more slowly. There may be an obstruction in only one pipe if more than one drains slowly. All toilets that are flushing slowly or are being backfilled with waste have a septic system issue that has to be fixed or replaced.

Strange Smells

Septic tanks should not always smell, despite what many people think—after all, they are hidden below. A septic tank that is overfilled and leaking solid waste can be the source of a fresh sewage smell. Black water or tainted wastewater may have oversaturated and contaminated the leach field.

Aged System

Before the septic system needs to be rebuilt, many homeowners who install one relocate to another house. However, it may be time to think about upgrading the septic tank system if an older home with an older system was purchased and repairs are required frequently (or the system needs to be pumped frequently).