Many homes in rural areas or outside of city limits dispose of their waste via septic tanks. These devices are large tanks that are buried underground somewhere on the home’s property—typically in the backyard or on one side of the home—and they’re connected to all the home’s outgoing pipes.
When wastewater enters a septic tank, the waste products and water are separated. The waste enters the tank itself, while the water is released into drain field pipes and is fed into nearby soil. Unlike sewer lines, which are maintained by local governments, septic tanks are the sole responsibility of the homeowner.
While many homeowners prefer the hands-off approach of sewer lines and not having to worry about an extra thing to maintain on their properties, others like having greater control over their plumbing. Septic tanks may seem outdated, especially as more and more homes are being equipped for sewer line connections, but there are pros and cons to this method of waste removal:
Pros
No additional bills
Because a septic tank is self-contained device that doesn’t need to be serviced by your local government, you won’t owe any additional fees per month for its usage like you would if your home was hooked up to a municipal sewer line. Most septic tanks are self-sustaining as well, which means you don’t have to spend much—or any—money each month to keep it operating at optimal conditions. However, you may need to have it pumped on occasion, so be sure to factor that expense into your budget.
Can be more eco-friendly
Septic tanks break down waste products via their own bacterial eco-systems. A well-maintained and well-balanced septic tank requires no electricity or additional steps to treat waste materials and wastewater. While sewers can seem more convenient, wastewater must be processed in large processing plants, which can utilize huge amounts of electricity and natural resources.
Cons
Will eventually need to be replaced
Although septic tanks are built to last for decades, with concrete tanks lasting up to 40 years and steel tanks lasting anywhere from 20 to 30 years, all types of septic tanks will eventually fail and need replacement. And when that day comes, it can be messy and expensive. In addition to worrying your unit potentially cracking or breaking and leaking wastewater in your lawn, you also will have to immediately the foot the bill for a new tank, which can easily cost more than $5,000 for the unit itself and installation fees
You’re responsible if anything breaks
Having a safe and reliable method for eliminating waste and wastewater is one of modern society’s greatest conveniences. When your home is hooked up to a sewer line, the only thing you must worry about are the pipes on your own property. Beyond that, it’s up to your local government. But with a septic tank, you’re responsible if anything goes wrong—and that level of worry drives many homeowners to sewer service.