How long do septic systems last?

Septic systems are a vital part of wastewater management in Australia. Not only do they provide an environmentally friendly way to dispose of wastewater, but they also play an important role in the overall health and well-being of our communities.

But how long will your septic tank last? And what can you do to ensure that it lasts as long as possible?

How long a septic tank lasts will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of system you have, the materials it's made of and the different components. On average, a septic system in Australia can last for 25 to 40 years if it's maintained and treated properly.

In this blog post, we will explore the different factors that affect septic system lifespan and offer some tips on how you can prolong the life of your septic tank. If you're looking for advice on restoring your system's performance, fixing a problem or maintenance speak with one of our wastewater experts at 1300 770 594.

What are septic tanks made of?

Plastic or Fiberglass - Plastic or fibreglass tanks are lightweight and resistant to rust and cracks. They are super easy to install and watertight. It can be installed anywhere. However, these tanks can float if the groundwater level is high but this disadvantage can be minimised by installing a proper anchoring system. They can last for more than 30 years.

Steel - Steel is prone to rust making them the least attractive option. They can last for 15-20 years but can start corroding much before that. If you have a steel septic tank, get it checked by a professional for rust, especially in the internal components.

Concrete - Concrete tanks are heavy and prone to cracks. They can last for 30 - 40 years but that depends on the quality of the concrete. If a low-quality concrete mix is used, cracks can appear quicker than expected. Out of all the septic tank materials, concrete tanks last the longest. These cracks can cause the groundwater to enter the tank or the effluent to seep out and contaminate the soil. Both scenarios are bad. A regular inspection is needed to ensure the concrete tanks are safe to use and don’t have any leaks.

Leach Field

The absorption trench or the leach field is another essential component of the septic tank. A leach field is used to remove contaminants from the effluent after it is released from the septic tank.

A properly designed and well-maintained absorption field can last for more than 50 years. How long the leach field lasts depends on its design and installation, quality of pipes, type of soil and maintenance.

Signs it is time to repair or replace your septic system

• Age of the system - Your septic system is older than 30-40 years and needs frequent pump out.
• Performance - Slowly draining water, sewage backup or standing water in the yard can indicate a septic problem.
• Capacity is too low - Septic systems are designed according to the size of your household. If you have renovated your home or have more members in the family, your septic system may not be able to keep up with your water consumption. It may cause a hydraulic overload which may lead to standing water in the yard, a funky smell and sewage backup. In that case, it is best to upgrade your septic tank.
• Funky smell - The sewage smell on your property can indicate a problem with your septic tank.

Tips to ensure your septic tank last for decades

Like any system, septic tanks need to be maintained in order to function properly and last a long time. Here are some tips for maintaining your septic tank.

• Ensure the septic tank is installed at the right place and the installation is done by qualified and experienced wastewater experts. Even the best system can fail in hours, if not installed correctly.
• Choose a septic tank material built to last.
• Use the right products: use only biodegradable soaps and detergents, as well as avoid using too much water. Overloading the system can cause it to fail and increase your maintenance costs.
• Don't flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet.
• Have your septic tank pumped every three to five years by a professional.
• Inspect your septic tank regularly for any leaks or damage.

If you would like more information on septic tanks or would like to have a septic tank system installed then talk to our team today at 1300 770 594. Alternatively, you can fill in our online quote form and one of our friendly staff will be able to assist you with your query.