A septic tank is a sought-after home amenity because it eliminates your dependence on city sewers and the associated monthly costs. If you’re preparing to purchase a property with a tank and have never dealt with septic maintenance before, it’s important to understand the basics. Here’s what to know.

A Guide to Buying a Home With a Septic Tank

How does a septic tank work?

Septic tanks receive, treat, and release home waste. A bacteria colony separates solid waste from wastewater, then safely releases it into a drain field, where it’s naturally filtered in the soil. Tanks can be above or below ground and connect directly to your home plumbing system.

What responsibilities do homeowners have?

Septic maintenance starts with your drains. Never flush grease, hygiene products, paper towels, or similar materials that cause clogs.

Pressure will collect behind blockages and can send wastewater back into your home. It may also burst the septic line and release waste into your yard.

Tanks should be pumped every 3-4 years. Before buying a home, ask the current owner when the system was pumped last and get a real estate septic system inspection before your purchase of a new home. Tanks should also be inspected every 3 years to stay ahead of cracking and other problems.

Should I schedule an inspection before I buy?

Only an expert can determine the state of the tank, so schedule an inspection. They’ll determine how old the tank is—they can last between 15-40 years—and visually inspect the tank cap for signs of wear.

They may next perform a camera inspection to check the levels inside the tank. Low levels indicate a leak, while high levels signify a problem with the leach field. Based on their findings, they’ll determine if septic repairs or replacement are needed and when it’s best to schedule a pumping.

What size tank do I need?

An undersized septic tank will fill up too quickly and pass debris into the drain field. The average 1- to 3-bedroom home has a 1,000-gallon tank, which can handle around 120 gallons per bedroom each day.

If you have four family members living in a 3-bedroom home, you may need to consider a larger tank. Think about how often you take showers and run the sink, dishwasher, or laundry machine. A septic maintenance professional will help you determine if an upgraded tank and leach field is the best option.

If you’re ready to schedule a septic inspection, contact Abrahamson Septic in Preston, CT. This septic maintenance company provides comprehensive system services and brings 50 years of experience to each residential and commercial job. Call (860) 889-7939 to schedule septic repairs, installation, or cleaning. Learn more about their services on their website.