Why Old Tanks Need More Frequent Attention
Older septic tanks were built under different rules and used materials that don’t always stand the test of time. Early tanks may lack filters or risers, which makes maintenance harder and less effective. These systems also have years of wear, weather, and usage layered into their history. Even with regular service, an old tank has a harder time managing waste as efficiently as a newer one. It doesn’t break down solids as completely, which means more frequent septic cleaning is needed to keep everything flowing. Another issue is settling. The soil around your tank and drainfield shifts. A tank that has settled at an angle won’t process wastewater correctly and will cause backups or saturation in the leach field. If your property has any signs of pooling water or overly lush grass in the septic area, it’s time for a checkup. Staying current with septic cleaning in Burlington protects your property value and health.
The Hidden Risks of Inherited Septic Issues
Buying a house with a septic system that wasn’t well-maintained can leave you with expensive and unexpected problems. If you inherited the home or bought it without a full system inspection, you’re relying on guesswork, and that can be risky. Inherited systems usually come with delayed issues. You may not notice any problems until a major failure happens like sewage backing into the house or surfacing in the yard. In some cases, the tank was already under strain from years of neglect, and your typical use just tips it over the edge. Another danger is with DIY repairs or outdated designs. Some older homes still have steel tanks, which corrode and can collapse without warning. If you’re unsure what kind of tank you have or when it was last inspected, a reliable septic company can give you a full assessment. Routine septic pumping in Burlington prevents buildup that could push an already fragile system past its limit and helps identify signs of deeper trouble before it gets worse.
What to Do When Records on Your System Are Missing
A surprising number of homeowners don’t have any clear records of their septic system. If you bought your house from someone who didn’t maintain good documentation, it can be hard to know what’s underground or how old it is. Start by calling your local health department. Sometimes there are permits or inspection reports on file, especially if the system was installed after 1980. If that comes up empty, the next step is a physical inspection by a qualified septic company. During the inspection, the technician will locate the tank and components, assess the condition of the lid, baffle, and walls, and determine how full it is. Based on that, they can recommend a schedule for septic tank pumping in Burlington going forward. In the absence of a maintenance history, it’s better to assume the tank needs attention. Book a cleaning and inspection to get a clean slate. From there, keep your own records and follow a regular schedule for pumping and cleaning. If the inspection shows that your tank is outdated or damaged, it may be time to consider replacement options to make sure your property is up to code and not putting groundwater at risk.
Is It Time for Your Next Septic Service?
If your septic tank is older, inherited, or undocumented, don’t wait for a problem to show itself. Septic pumping in Burlington, North Carolina, will protect your home from contamination, water damage, and repairs. Call Greensboro Septic Pros. Whether you need septic tank pumping in Burlington for peace of mind or septic service to investigate an unknown issue, we’re here to help. Call today to schedule your septic cleaning in Burlington or a surrounding community.
