It’s a feature that makes many potential home buyers nervous: septic systems. Homes that are not serviced by municipal sewers have septic systems, which handle the home’s wastewater. These standalone systems treat and dispose of wastewater independent of the city’s sewer system.
If you’re considering purchasing a home with a septic system, you may be wondering whether it’s a good idea. Here’s what you need to know:
Septic Systems are More Common Than You Think
Septic systems are more common than you think. In fact, one in five homes in the U.S. rely on these systems, according to the EPA.
Most people assume that septic systems are only used in rural areas, but they are commonly found in suburban and urban areas as well.
Septic Systems Treat Wastewater Differently Than City Systems
With a septic system, a pipe collects wastewater from the home and sends it underground into a watertight tank.
Once in the tank, solids settle to the bottom, while floatable materials float to the top. Both solids and floatables are contained in the tank, which is pumped periodically.
There’s also a middle layer that contains liquid wastewater. This wastewater exits the tank into a buried drainfield, and the wastewater is dispersed into the soil. The soil filters contaminants, and beneficial bacteria breaks down organic materials.
The drainfield must be large enough to handle the liquid volume the home generates.
Septic Systems Require Cleaning and Pumping
Septic tanks need to be pumped from time to time to remove scum and sludge. How often should a tank be pumped? That depends on the size of the tank and how much wastewater is produced.
“Because septic tanks fill up over time, it is recommended that they be pumped every 2-3 years to keep them clean, functioning, and sanitary,” says Speedy Rooter.
Regular maintenance can extend the leech field 20-50 years. Failing to properly maintain the system can lead to clogs, repairs and premature replacement of the tank.
Septic Systems Must be Cared for Properly
Everyone should take care of their sewer systems, but homeowners that are connected to city water often take less care because they know the city is responsible for maintaining the system.
With a septic system, you are in charge of maintaining your system. To avoid costly clogs and repairs, you need to be careful about what you flush and ensure that you care for your system properly.
It's especially important to avoid the following if you have a septic system:
- Using bleach to clean toilets and sinks
- Using powdered laundry soap that creates an excessive amount of suds
- Flushing floss, hair, grease and other non-flushable items
The cost to maintain a septic system is typically between $250 and $500, according to the EPA.
Some States Have Special Requirements When Buying a Home with a Septic Tank
Different states have different requirements when buying a home with a septic tank. Some states will require a septic system inspection before the title can be transferred to the new owner.
It's also important to find out the age of the septic system. The cost to replace a septic system can range from $3,000 to $7,000 or more. An old system may need to be replaced in the near future, so this needs to be considered before making the purchase.
