Homes that don’t connect to a municipal sewer system rely on a septic tank. Even with proper care, septic systems are only designed to last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. The exact life expectancy of a septic system will vary. In addition to how often and how well it is maintained, factors contributing to the longevity of a septic system include the type of system, the condition of the surrounding soil, and how often homeowners use it.
Septic systems often display warning signs indicating they are nearly at the end of their lifespan. Arrow Sewer & Drain provides septic tank decommissioning and city sewer hookup services for north and central New Jersey property owners. Here, we explain the signs that point to septic tank decommissioning.
Signs Your Septic System Is In Trouble
Here are some common indicators of septic tank problems:
Foul-Smelling Odors
In many cases, your nose will detect a problem with your septic tank before your eyes will. Failing septic systems often produce a persistent foul odor that can make its way throughout your home. The odor typically comes from drains and the outdoor area where the septic system is located. This warning sign can indicate a blockage somewhere within the system or that the system is failing and needs replacing.
Contamination of Well Water
Septic system failure will commonly result in sewage seeping into your yard. While the sewage acts as a natural fertilizer and is great for the plant life and grass on your property, it can also make its way into the groundwater. When this happens, contamination is a major cause for concern.
Septic tanks that produce well water after aging or damage can contain several concerning contaminants, including dangerous bacteria, nitrite, and high nitrates. Property owners should address concerns with their septic system as soon as possible to prevent this from happening and endangering others.
Frequent Septic System Failures
Does your septic system continuously fail? If so, it may be time for an upgrade. Failures such as backed-up pipes and slow-moving drains indicate your septic system is beginning to break down. If the problem worsens without being addressed, raw sewage could start backing up into your toilet.
Continuous Increase in Maintenance Costs
Regular maintenance is normal for your septic tank, and it extends the longevity of your system. However, the need for continuous maintenance can signal that replacement is warranted. Property owners may be better off replacing their systems altogether than applying short-term solutions. Property owners who are reluctant to decommission their system due to concerns about cost might end up paying more for repair services in the long run.
Structural Damage to the Septic Tank
The need for septic system decommissioning can depend on the structural integrity of the tank. Septic tanks are made from durable materials and designed to last. However, they can still experience structural damage, resulting in septic system failures. If this happens, property owners must have their septic tanks decommissioned.
Learn More About Septic Tank Decommissioning
No matter how well you maintain your septic system, it will eventually need to be decommissioned and replaced. Property owners should choose this course of action before systems fail completely. Residents in north and central New Jersey wishing to learn more about the condition of their system should turn to the professionals at Arrow Sewer & Drain. Specializing in septic tank removal and other sewer and drain services, we can help you determine whether or not it’s time to decommission your septic tank.
If you have concerns about your septic tank, contact us today at Arrow Sewer & Drain.
