How to Know Whether to Repair or Replace Your Septic Tank


Whether to repair or replace a faulty septic system is a common dilemma for homeowners not connected to the local sewer system. While only some septic tank issues require a replacement, it is not always easy to determine the best course of action in case of a malfunction. A septic replacement requires considerable investment hence the need to know when it is necessary.

Some septic system issues can be easily fixed through repair, including pipe leakages and clogs. While knowing you can fix a septic system malfunction through a repair can be a huge relief, some issues might necessitate a replacement. For instance, you may have outgrown your septic system with increased usage, or the system is old.

We will explore some of these situations to help you prepare for possible septic system emergencies. Here are some situations where a septic repair might not be enough;

  1. An Old Septic System

With proper maintenance, a septic system can function adequately for decades without needing replacement. According to industry experts, a septic system can last more than 40 years. Full septic replacements are rare, and you will likely not need a new septic system for a long time. However, if your home is more than 40 years old, you might need to replace your septic system sooner than you think. As with other property features, simple repairs may not be the solution for an old malfunctioning septic system. It might be time for a new one.

  1. Increased Usage

A septic system is usually designed for a specific household size, including the number of people expected to live in the property. However, it is common for homeowners to change living arrangements to accommodate more people. For instance, you might build an additional room or turn your garage into a living space to accommodate a financially struggling son and their family. Essentially, you will be outgrowing your original septic system, and it might be unable to handle the increased household capacity. With increased usage, you might start experiencing persistent septic system issues, including overflows. While frequent pumping and cleaning can be temporary solutions, you will eventually need a septic replacement to address the increased household capacity.

  1. Frequent and severe septic system malfunctions

While even a properly maintained septic system is prone to issues from time to time, they should not be frequent or severe such that you need costly repairs every time they occur. If your septic system is frequently malfunctioning, even with routine inspections and septic cleaning, it might be an indicator of a more significant issue. You might need a full septic replacement to resolve the recurring problems.

A septic system is a considerable investment, and its full replacement is costly for most homeowners. However, it is one of a home’s most overlooked elements, with most homeowners only paying attention to it when an issue arises. Consequently, some issues that might have needed a simple repair to fix end up requiring a septic replacement.

With routine inspection, a septic system professional will tell you whether an issue needs repair or whether you need a septic replacement. With septic systems designed to last for decades, replacements are rare. However, they are necessary for some situations. If you are in Tucson, Arizona, and are confused about whether you should repair or replace your septic system, contact Curtis Plumbing. We offer septic inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement services. Our septic system experts will help you determine the best course of action.