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[Venezia]

For a lot of rural America, a septic system is the only thing you can have.

We built our current home 20 years ago.  We get the septic tank pumped every five years (just the two of us) and we've had no problems at all.  The septic tank and leach field are on one side of our home and our well is on the other, quite a distance away.

It's important to have each one drain in opposite directions to avoid contamination.

You just hire a company to come pump it out; it's not something you do yourself.  Last year we paid about $160, but I know that will vary depending on where you are.

When buying any home, new build or older, a full inspection is imperative.  It will save any heartache or sudden surprises down the road.

[september]

I've lived in two different homes over the last 30 years, that had septic systems, and owned rental properties that also had them. 

Depending on the size of your tank, and your usage, maintainance is not a big deal.  You just call the septic pumping company every 3-5 years, and they come and pump.  Where I live now, we are required to pump every two years (HOA rules).  I think that's overkill, but we have a good rate and it should cost about $200.  

[Venezia]

Just another note, regarding the mention of not flushing wipes (or anything other than toilet paper).  That's true even for public sewer systems.

There have been many news stories about the massive problem caused by people flushing things like that.  They don't break down like toilet paper does.  Even if the wipes say "flushable"...don't!

[september]

@Venezia   Good point made.  I think having a septic system has made me more aware of what is trash and what should/should not be flushed.  

a friend of mine, who was on the public sewer system, clogged up her pipes by flushing those wipes.  When the plumber came to fix things, she said the wipes were labeled "flushable".  He told her that his socks were flushable, too, but that doesn't mean you should do it!

[Venezia]

@september - Exactly!

[grandma r]

@SXMGirl. We've had a septic system for 30+ years.  Maintenance is mostly common sense.  There are companies that service these systems.  First off, get a licensed company to inspect the system and drain field.  In our area, all septic systems must ge cleaned out prior to a final sale.  Most  experts recommend not using a garbage disposal.  It's also advised not to use a lot of bleach.

We have a contract with a septic cleaning company and they advise us about cleaning every few years.  

Clogs are the biggest problem.   Make sure that you only flush what is supposed to be flushed.

Best wishes.

[Q4u]

We bought a brand new home in the country 10 years ago and it had a Septic System, also a well on the other side of the house.  I agree, ask a lot of questions and remember that the smell will back up the pipes and will waft back into the house unless you keep the "traps" filled with water.  Usually everyday living will keep water in the traps (from the bathtub and sinks).... but when we were selling the house I had to run the water every week or two to maintain the house smelling good..... 

[kaydee50]

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@SXMGirl wrote:

Thanks, everyone, for your replies.   Septic might not be in my future.   I think that I will stick to public water/sewer and make my life easier.

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Wise decision, IMO.  A septic system would be an immediate "no" to the property.

[ScrapHappy]

If you're considering a house with a septic tank, please get it inspected.  When we house hunted, I walked away if it had a septic system.  When a house is built with a septic system and say that house was built as a 3 bedroom, 2 bath....you can't add another bathroom without "upgrading" the existing septic tank.  When it's built, that's what it's able to handle, no more.    

[SXMGirl]

Thanks, everyone.  This city girl is sticking to public water.  Luckily, the beach area does have it and they also have gas for cooking and fireplaces.  Works for me.