A new septic system costs $15,000-$30,000 to install.
A failed drain field? That’s another $10,000-$20,000 to replace.
But with proper maintenance, your septic system can last 30-40 years or more. The difference between a system that lasts decades and one that fails in 15 years comes down to understanding how it works and following a simple maintenance schedule.
If you live in the Chattanooga area outside city sewer service—places like Ooltewah, Apison, Harrison, or Sale Creek—this guide is essential reading.
How Your Septic System Works
Understanding your system helps you maintain it properly.
The Septic Tank
A buried, watertight container (usually 1,000-1,500 gallons) that receives all wastewater from your home. Inside the tank:
- Solids sink to the bottom, forming sludge
- Oils and grease float to the top, forming scum
- Liquid wastewater (effluent) flows out to the drain field
Beneficial bacteria break down some solids, but sludge and scum accumulate over time and must be pumped out.
The Drain Field
A series of perforated pipes buried in gravel trenches. Effluent flows through these pipes and percolates into the soil, where it’s naturally filtered and treated by soil bacteria.
A healthy drain field is crucial. Once it fails, replacement is expensive—often $10,000-$20,000 or more.
Essential Maintenance Tasks
Regular Pumping
The most important maintenance task. Pumping removes accumulated sludge and scum before they can flow into the drain field and cause damage.
How often? Most tanks need pumping every 3-5 years, but frequency depends on:
- Tank size
- Household size
- Water usage
- Whether you use a garbage disposal
A family of four with a 1,000-gallon tank typically needs pumping every 2-3 years.
Annual Inspections
Have your system inspected annually or at least every 3 years. Inspections check:
- Sludge and scum levels
- Tank structural integrity
- Inlet and outlet baffles
- Signs of leaks
- Drain field condition
Many problems can be caught early when they’re cheaper to fix.
Keep Records
Maintain a file with:
- System location and size
- Pumping dates and company used
- Inspection reports
- Any repairs performed
This information is valuable for maintenance and when selling your home.
What NOT to Put in Your Septic System
Your septic system relies on bacteria to break down waste. Many common household items can kill these bacteria or cause clogs:
Never Flush or Drain:
- “Flushable” wipes – They don’t break down
- Feminine hygiene products
- Diapers
- Cat litter
- Cooking grease and oils
- Coffee grounds
- Medications
- Paints, solvents, or chemicals
- Pesticides or herbicides
- Excessive bleach or antibacterial cleaners
Limit:
- Garbage disposal use (adds solids faster)
- Antibacterial soaps
- Harsh cleaning chemicals
Protecting Your Drain Field
The drain field is the most expensive component to replace. Protect it by:
Don’t Park or Build on It
Vehicle weight compacts soil and can crush pipes. Never park cars, install sheds, or build patios over the drain field.
Plant Appropriately
- Do plant: Grass (helps prevent erosion)
- Don’t plant: Trees or shrubs (roots damage pipes)
Keep trees at least as far from the drain field as their mature height.
Divert Water Away
- Direct roof gutters away from the drain field
- Don’t drain pools or hot tubs near it
- Grade landscaping to prevent water from pooling over it
Excess water saturates the soil and prevents proper treatment.
Signs of Septic Problems
Watch for these warning signs:
Inside Your Home
- Slow drains throughout the house
- Gurgling sounds from drains
- Sewage odors
- Sewage backup (emergency!)
Outside Your Home
- Soggy areas over the tank or drain field
- Unusually green grass over the system
- Sewage odors in the yard
- Standing water or surfacing effluent
In Your Well (if applicable)
- High nitrate or coliform bacteria levels
- Changes in water taste or smell
Water Conservation Matters
Your septic system can only handle so much water. Excessive water use can:
- Push solids into the drain field
- Prevent proper treatment
- Cause backups
Tips to Reduce Water Load:
- Fix leaky faucets and toilets promptly
- Space out laundry loads throughout the week
- Use high-efficiency appliances
- Take shorter showers
- Don’t run water unnecessarily
Septic Additives: Do They Work?
Many products claim to eliminate the need for pumping or restore failing systems. The truth:
- Most additives are unnecessary – Your system has natural bacteria
- Some can be harmful – They may stir up solids that flow to the drain field
- None eliminate pumping – Sludge still accumulates
Save your money for regular pumping and inspections instead.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a septic service provider if you notice:
- Any signs of system problems listed above
- It’s been 3+ years since your last pumping
- You’re buying or selling a home
- You want to add a garbage disposal
- You’re planning construction near the system
Septic System Costs
Understanding costs helps you budget:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Pumping | $300-$600 |
| Inspection | $100-$300 |
| Minor repairs | $500-$2,000 |
| Baffle replacement | $300-$600 |
| Drain field repair | $2,000-$10,000 |
| Full system replacement | $15,000-$30,000+ |
Regular maintenance is far cheaper than emergency repairs or replacement.
Need septic service? Find local Chattanooga septic service providers in our directory. Look for companies that specifically mention septic pumping and repair. Find Septic Specialists →