Houses deal with wastewater in different ways. Some are attached to a municipal sewer, while others have an on-site septic system. If you are unfamiliar with how these kinds of plumbing work, use the following guide to learn the differences between the two methods. 

Septic Vs. Sewage Systems 

Waste Disposal

A sewer system carries household waste out of the house, through the plumbing into the sewer lines, and to a wastewater treatment plant. Meanwhile, a septic system is essentially a miniature, on-site wastewater treatment plant that utilizes a tank to contain waste. It's filled with beneficial bacteria that treat the wastewater so it can be released into a drain field, where the earth filters additional impurities out of the water. Solid remnants must be pumped out every couple of years as the septic tank fills.

Cost

Sewers have few up-front costs for homeowners. Instead, you pay a monthly fee. Costs can either be bundled with municipal water usage or called out separately. Septic systems cost little or nothing to operate each month, aside from maintenance and pumping, and come included in the price of the home. A septic system should last about 40 years, after which it may need to be replaced.

Maintenance

Sewage systems require almost no maintenance on the part of homeowners unless something clogs or interferes with their plumbing or sewer line. Responsibility for repairs and replacement falls on the municipality. However, owners of septic systems must have it inspected, maintained, and pumped every few years to ensure it continues operating properly. Whether you have one or the other, you should never come in contact with wastewater unless something goes wrong.

For affordable septic system pumping or sewer cleaning, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Chardon, OH. They are a family-owned franchise led by a fourth-generation plumber, so you can expect fair prices and quality workmanship. They specialize in septic and sewage systems as well as drain cleaning and water heater repair. Visit their website to send them an information request or call (440) 286-6002 for 24/7 emergency services.