Common Myths and Misconceptions About Septic Systems

If you have recently purchased a home with a septic tank or you are considering having a system installed on your property, chances are that you've heard plenty of advice from your friends and neighbors about how to care for your septic system.

A Septic Tank Will Last Forever

One common and potentially messy myth about your septic system is that your tank will last forever. If you care for your septic system correctly, which includes making sure it is pumped every three to five years and inspected yearly, you can expect it to last anywhere from 20 to 40 years — depending on the material used to construct the tank.

Using Septic Additives Means You Don't Need to Have Your Tank Pumped

There are several additives available that claim to keep your septic system clean. You might have heard that if you use these additives, you won't need to have your tank pumped as often — or at all. Unfortunately, if you don't have your septic tank pumped on a regular basis it could be disastrous.

Your septic tank is comprised of both solids and liquids. The natural bacteria found in your septic tank will break down a portion of the solids, but there will still be a layer of solid matter present. Placing every additive on the shelf into your tank won't completely eliminate the solid waste, and it will still need to be pumped on a regular basis.

Additionally, some chemicals found in additives can disturb the bacterial balance in your tank. Also, if your tank is plastic or metal, the corrosive chemical additive could cause serious damage to your septic system.

You Can Build on Top of Your Septic Tank

Another common myth about septic tanks is that, because they are buried so far under the ground, it's acceptable to build a deck, patio or another structure on top of it. This is a bad idea for two reasons. First, if you build over your septic tank, you will make it impossible for a professional to access it, which means it cannot be properly maintained and pumped.

Secondly, building over your septic tank or on your drainage field can disrupt the natural and necessary breakdown of wastewater that occurs in the soil. For the soil to properly break down the wastewater, it requires oxygen. If you build a structure on the drain field, you make it much more difficult for oxygen to be introduced into the soil.

This can lead to a serious disaster called a septic backup. When your septic system suffers a backup, it can cause damage to the tank. Because there is more wastewater present than the system can handle, the effluence will begin leeching out of the field and backing up into your home.
Knowing how to properly care for your septic system is critical. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at  Bowen's Septic & Environmental .