If you live in a rural area or a home without a direct connection to a municipal sewer system, you likely rely on a septic system for wastewater management. Because septic tanks aren't widely used, it's not uncommon for people to have misconceptions about them, their functions, and their maintenance. Below, you can learn more about the most common assumptions about septic systems to prepare yourself for your septic tank's abilities and care.

What Are the Most Common Misconceptions About Septic Tanks?

1. They Don't Need Routine Maintenance

People often assume that septic systems take care of themselves. However, routine septic tank maintenance is essential to keep your plumbing functional and to avoid messy sewage backups in your yard or home. Septic tanks vary in size. Depending on your household's size and how often the plumbing is used daily, you should schedule septic tank maintenance, which includes pumping and cleaning, every three to five years. The wastewater containers only hold so much solid waste and sludge, so periodically emptying them is necessary. 

2. Tanks Last a Lifetime

Unfortunately, no tank will last forever, regardless of how well you maintain your septic system. Eventually, the container will need a replacement, but it depends on your system's materials. For instance, a well-constructed concrete septic tank can last about 40 years. Plastic tanks might last up to 40 years with excellent care, but steel containers usually fail within 20 to 30 years. 

3. You Can Put Anything Down the Drain

It's never a good idea to put certain materials down drains because they can cause clogs or deteriorate pipes. However, a misconception about septic systems is that the tanks can handle almost any material because the waste will eventually be pumped. That is inaccurate. 

Septic tanks use biological microbes and enzymes to break down waste. Wastewater eventually drains into a nearby drain field, where it undergoes a natural filtration through the soil, leaving solids inside the tank. Pouring in household chemicals like drain cleaner and bleach will kill beneficial microbes. The imbalance of essential bacteria makes it harder for waste to break down, increasing the risk of a system breakdown and plumbing issues inside your home. Using the septic tank solely for wastewater and raw sewage is best. 

If you have a septic system on your Seminole, AL, property, rely on Baldwin Septic Tanks to keep your tank running smoothly. For almost 50 years, this locally owned and operated company has provided dependable septic system services, including tank maintenance, pumping, repair, and installation. They also offer nonhazardous liquids that won't harm your septic tank for unclogging pipes. Their team is available 24/7 for emergencies, so call (251) 946-3250 or visit their website to request a free estimate.