Buying A Home With A Septic Tank? Here are the Pros & Cons

For many of us, especially first-time home buyers, purchasing a new home is an exciting yet daunting journey. One aspect of homeownership that can be quite intimidating is the presence of a septic system. 

While the idea of having a septic tank conjures images of elaborate installation and maintenance processes, we should all understand that this nifty innovation in plumbing actually brings with it an array of advantages that make it a wise and practical choice for homeowners.

Additionally, septic tank installation and maintenance can be a breeze once you’ve partnered with a trusted Northeast Alabama septic system professional. That said, here’s the scoop on septic systems and how they work:

First Things First: Understanding How Septic Systems Work

For septic system newbies, a septic system is an on-site wastewater treatment system that handles your home’s plumbing needs without relying on a centralized municipal sewer system. It is made up of a septic tank that’s buried underground, usually near the home, and a drain field where the treated wastewater is released into the soil.

When wastewater flows from your home, it enters the septic tank. Here, the solid waste settles at the bottom, while oils and grease float to the top. Bacteria inside the tank break down the organic matter. The partially treated liquid then flows into the drain field, where the soil filters and treats the wastewater.

The Perks of Having Septic Systems 

• Substantial Savings: One of the most significant benefits of having a septic system is the potential to save money. By not relying on a public sewer, you can avoid monthly sewer bills. This can be especially advantageous in the long run and can contribute to substantial savings over time.

• Eco-Conscious and Sustainable:  When septic systems are properly maintained, they can be more environmentally friendly than municipal sewer systems. The natural treatment process that occurs in the drain field not only helps filter and cleanse the wastewater before re-entering the groundwater but also reduces the need for chemical treatments and energy-intensive processes that are often associated with centralized wastewater treatment plants.

• Countryside Livin’ is Easy: Often, septic systems enable homeowners to live farther away from densely populated areas and cities. This opens up opportunities for those seeking a quieter and more rural lifestyle since your wastewater treatment system isn’t tied to a centralized wastewater treatment plant or municipal sewer system.

• Lasts You A Long Time: A well-maintained septic system can last you up to 40 years or more, providing long-term functionality and reliability alongside peace of mind and cost-efficiency.

• Cut Down On Your Dues Too!: If you have a septic system, chances are, your property taxes might be lower, too, as your home is not connected to a municipal sewage system, which can sometimes lead to reduced tax obligations.

Navigating the Shortcomings

On the other hand, it’s still important to be aware of the challenges that can come with owning a home with a septic system:

• Save On Maintenance: While the annual maintenance costs for a septic system are relatively minimal, there are occasional expenses for inspections and pumping. Ranging from around $300-600, these costs still end up being more affordable than ongoing municipal sewer fees.

• Seep Into The Groundwater: Inadequate maintenance or leaks in the system can potentially lead to groundwater contamination, which could affect the well or drinking water. This is where regular inspections and proper maintenance come in handy, as it can mitigate these kinds of risks.

• Mind What You Flush: As with any other sewage system, homeowners must be mindful of what they dispose of down the drain. Flushing down harsh chemicals or non-biodegradable materials can disrupt the natural treatment process in the septic tank and lead to costly repairs.

• A New One in the Long Run: Just like any other piece of technology or infrastructure, septic tanks have a limited lifespan. While they can last you decades, especially if well-maintained, they will eventually need to be replaced. Proper care and maintenance, by way of routine inspections and pumping, can extend their life, but getting a new one is an inevitable consideration in the long run.

Making an Informed Decision

For those still mulling over the decision to buy a home with a septic system, it’s important to remember that these systems have been in use for over a century, demonstrating not only their reliability and functionality but also their effectiveness and efficiency. 

If you find your dream home and it happens to have a septic system, do not fret! Instead, ensure you go through a thorough septic tank inspection process (much like the inspection you undertake on the ground level), including a sewer scope inspection by an experienced professional in Northeast Alabama.

Your Trusted Septic System Professionals in Northeast Alabama 

Since 1975, we have provided our clients with the highest quality septic system maintenance and repair services. For the best price and service in Northeast Alabama, get in touch with Economy Septic Tank Service today!