All About Septic Tank Replacements

Don’t let things get backed up — Willey & Co is here to help!

Your septic tank plays an integral role in everyday living, so it’s vital to have an effective septic system. From clean drinking water to waste removal, your septic system is something that is heavily relied upon, and when it goes, it can cause a huge disruption and be very costly. 

At Willey & Co, we make sure that doesn’t happen! Learn more about septic tank replacements in today’s post.

Septic Tank Replacement

A well-cared-for septic tank can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years, but at the end of the day, they don’t last forever. And while maintenance will prolong their longevity, you don’t ever want to gamble on an old and outdated septic tank. 

When a septic system fails, untreated sewage is transported and liberated to places it shouldn’t be. From backing up the pipes and into your home to having sewage come to the surface of your yard, it’s extremely dangerous because of the pathogens and contaminants it carries. Any exposure that humans and animals have to it is a health hazard and can make them sick. 

Not interested in a septic system failure? Then ensure you know roughly how old your septic system is and when it should be replaced. 

Why Septic Systems Fail

Waking up to a sewage smell — or even worse, raw sewage in your home — means there is an issue with your septic system. There are many reasons as to why this happens, but most can be prevented if you’re familiar with what to do. 

The most common reasons septic systems fail are a result of a lack of maintenance, poor design or improper septic tank installation, or simply using too much water. 

It’s important that your septic tank is installed properly — there are a collection of local codes and ordinances that a company must know before making the first dig. Additionally, placing the septic system deep enough and in an optimal area is just as critical. 

Septic systems function to filter the sewage from your wastewater, where the clean water then permeates the soil typically in 24 to 48 hours. If there is too much water being used, it may not be cleaned properly, and the water may be contaminated.   

Septic Tank Warning Signs

In most cases, your septic tank won’t suddenly fail — there are a variety of red flags. Gurgling drains is just one tell-tale sign, so if you’ve been experiencing that, never hesitate to contact Willey & Co or request a septic quote. 

Other warning signs that are easy to recognize that your septic tank is failing include backed-up pipes, standing puddles in your front yard, slow drains, and many more. Read our comprehensive post on When To Replace Your Septic Tank.

Septic Tank Pumping Vs. Septic Tank Replacement

Septic systems are an investment, so how do you differentiate the difference between when it needs to be pumped and when the septic system needs to be replaced? 

Many of the signs that your septic system needs to be replaced are often the signs that it needs to be pumped! How often you pump your septic tank will vary from household to household, depending on its usage. 

Every three to five years is generally recommended, but pumping your septic tank may become more frequent as the number of people in your home increases. 

Common indicators that your septic system needs to be pumped include a high nitrate concentration, lush grass above your drainfield, slow drains, pooling water, foul odors, etc. 

The biggest difference between requiring a pumping and a septic tank replacement will likely boil down to the age of your septic system. If you’re unsure of the age of your septic tank or you’d like a septic tank evaluation, Willey & Co is happy to help!

Quality Septic Tank Replacements From Willey & Co

As a homeowner, you heavily rely on your septic system, and if you never have to think twice about it, it’s doing its job! With proper maintenance — septic pumping and repair — and incorporating basic daily maintenance — not putting oil or coffee grounds down the disposal, using septic-safe cleaners, etc. — your septic system is in good shape and will last a very long time. 

If you do reach a point where your septic tank is indicating that trouble is brewing — gurgling drains, foul smells, etc. — don’t ignore them and get your septic tank serviced! The septic tank technicians will be able to help you determine the best course of action — pumping your septic tank or replacing it.

If you have an older septic tank or aren’t sure of its age, Willey & Co can help. We provide the leading septic tank replacements from experienced and skilled septic tank technicians. 

Get in touch with Willey & Co today to learn more about our septic tank services.