Depending on the material used to build your septic tank, it can last as long as 40 years. Strong concrete tanks have been known to last this long. You will get about 20 to 30 years out of the steel tank. You can help extend the life of your septic tank by avoiding certain things that damage it prematurely. Express Septic Services lists those things below.
Too Much Water
If you inundate your septic system with water, it won’t last as long. Avoid sending too much water through the tank by limiting your water usage inside your home. For example, only do full loads of laundry and spread your laundry throughout the week. Make sure that your plumbing system doesn’t have any leaks, and only use your dishwasher after you’ve filled it. Be water-efficient.
Harmful Objects
Another thing that will reduce the life of your septic tank is flushing things down the toilets and drains that are harmful to the tank, this includes baby wipes, condoms, dental floss, diapers, feminine products, food, oil, tobacco products, and paper products that are not septic safe. It’s important to make sure that your toilet tissue is septic safe and that you don’t flush napkins, paper towels, or facial tissue down the toilet.
Zero Maintenance
Ignoring the need for septic system maintenance will also reduce the life of your septic tank. Annual inspections of the septic system allow us to determine whether the tank is full and whether there is any damage to the tank or drain field. This includes encroaching tree roots that can crack your septic tank.
Zero Pumping
On average, you should have your septic tank pumped every three years. If you fail to do so, the tank will overflow and back up into your home. Keeping the septic tank pumped when it needs it helps prevent solids from being lodged in the tank permanently. If you have a large household, you may need to have your septic tank pumped more often than every three years.
Yard Damage
Finally, it’s important to make certain that your yard doesn’t damage your septic tank. As we said above, tree roots can damage the tank. Things such as runoff and soil erosion can also expose your tank and damage it. Keep the earth around your tank well cared for to ensure the soil doesn’t shift too much and you end up with a cracked septic tank.
If it’s been at least a year since you had your septic tank serviced, call Express Septic Services in Greenville, SC. We will inspect the tank to make sure it isn’t damaged.
