Determining when you need a new septic tank can often feel like you’re playing psychic. Oftentimes, a damaged system can keep working until one day, it suddenly fails – and you’re stuck with tons of repairs, a yard full of septic tank cleaners and a massive invoice. Septic tanks are generally quite hardy, and can last up to three years before they need to be pumped but preventive maintenance and drain cleaning in Bergen County can certainly help avoid these bills. However, a damaged tank can be quite difficult to fix; add years of wear and tear on top of that, and it often makes more sense just to buy a new one altogether.

As previously mentioned, septic systems will only need to be pumped every three years, or even longer. However, if you think you’ve needed to pump a lot more than usual, then it might be time to replace it with a totally new system, as it may be a symptom that you and your family have outgrown your old tank. Go out to the landscape surrounding your septic system and examine the water. Are there any puddles that have collected on the ground? Does the ground seem constantly moist, even when it hasn’t rained for some time? That’s a big indicator that your septic system is leaking out water. If the leak is along the ports, a septic tank professional can easily fix it; however, if the damage has occurred on the tank itself, then it might be time to consider upgrading to a new tank, as these repairs are costly and time-consuming.

While you’re checking the ground, see if any trees surrounding your septic tank system have grown larger over the years. Many professionals report seeing tanks that have been damaged by growing tree roots. If there’s been a change in your landscape, forget calling a tree removal service – contact a septic professional to see if they can install a smaller tank or a new one elsewhere on your property. These simple steps by themselves can help prevent any major septic tank overflow!