Many homes in rural areas rely on septic systems instead of sewers. If you are considering buying a property that features a septic installation, it’s smart to learn more about how these systems work. Septic systems are efficient waste solutions, but it’s essential to ask the right questions, so you don’t end up with a one that requires extensive repairs or a replacement prematurely.

What to Know When Purchasing a Home With a Septic Installation

So How Do Septic Systems Work?

All of the waste rinsed and flushed down the drain flows into the septic tank for separation. Solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank, where it is broken down via natural bacteria and enzymes. Oil, fat, and grease rises to the top of the tank, forming the scum layer. Wastewater exits the tank through perforated pipes and is filtered into the drain field, where it will eventually become groundwater again.

What Should I Ask the Seller About the System?

Inquire about the age of the septic tank. Steel tanks last up to 20 years with the right care, while concrete tanks last up to 40 years. Drain fields can last about 50 years depending on the quality of the soil and its ability to filter wastewater efficiently.

Ask to see the maintenance records so you know how often the septic installation has undergone pumping. Septic tanks that do not get cleaned regularly can crack and leak into the soil or adjoining drain field. They can also cause plumbing backups in the home.

Can I Ask the Seller to Replace the System if it’s Old or Faulty?

An older system or one that did not pass inspection due to cracks or issues such as tree roots in the perforated pipes should be replaced by the owner prior to the property sale. If the owner does not want to pay for a new septic installation, they should reduce the selling price since you will pay for the replacement. Should the seller refuse to pay to replace the system or lower the price, look for another property.

How Do I Maintain the System?

In addition to scheduling septic pumping services, conserve weekly water usage to avoid overwhelming the tank and possibly flooding the drain field. Watch what goes down the drains as well, since objects such as sanitary napkins, paper towels, q-tips, and excessive oil, fat, and grease will contribute to clogs.

Avoid allowing toxic cleaning chemicals into your drains since they disrupt natural bacteria that the septic tank needs to breakdown solids. 

When you need septic installation, repair, or pumping contact the professionals at Beckham Septic Tanks & Ditching Service in Enterprise, AL. This family-owned business has served Dale, Coffee, Pike, Houston, and Geneva counties for over 65 years. Call (334) 347-2362 to schedule service or request a septic installation quote online.