What Does a Septic Inspection Entail?
Your home needs a periodic septic inspection. Here’s what to expect with a septic sewage system inspection.
Getting your septic system inspected may feel a little like going to the doctor: it’s necessary for the system’s health, but you dread what the report might reveal. However, as with your own health, it’s better to know what’s going on so you can take steps to address any minor issues before they become major problems.
And if you can’t even remember the last time your septic system was inspected, the time to schedule one is now — particularly if you plan to list your home for sale.
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The ins and outs of septic systems
Rural life has numerous benefits, but homeowners accustomed to country living know that a little independence comes with a lot of responsibility. One of those responsibilities is maintaining your septic system — because most rural homes feature “well and septic” rather than city water and sewer.
In fact, as many as one in five households nationwide get their water from a well and rely on a septic system to dispose of wastewater. Those homeowners should have their waste management systems inspected every one to three years, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
There are two basic types of septic systems: conventional and alternative.
Conventional systems are further categorized as gravity or pressure distribution systems. Gravity is the standard system, in which gravity is relied upon to move effluent through the tank and into the leach field. Pressure distribution utilizes a pump to do the job. It’s used in new systems because it distributes more evenly to the whole drainfield.
Alternative systems include:
- Aerobic Treatment Unit in which oxygen is used to break down solids. It is frequently used in environmentally sensitive areas because it produces cleaner wastewater than conventional systems.
- Mound System, which involves a drainfield raised above ground level. It is used when there’s little soil available for the treatment process.
- Sand Filter System, also used when there’s little soil available for the treatment process. It incorporates a sand filtering system and pump to treat and disburse the effluent.
If your system features pumps, electrical float switches, or mechanical components, the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends an inspection every year.
If it sounds a little intimidating (or expensive), don’t worry. We did the research and spoke to an expert in the (drain) field as well as a top agent to get the lowdown on this dirty job.
