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What is a septic tank?

A septic tank is a buried, watertight container that holds household wastewater while solids settle as sludge and oil and grease rise as scum. Liquid then flows to a drainfield for further treatment. EPA says household tanks are typically pumped every 3–5 years; plan for recurring service as well as installation.

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At a glance

By InstaBids editorial team with AI research agents. Updated

What this means for your home project

  1. Review your property deed, building permit or design plans for a reference to the home’s septic system. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, read 2026-11-05.
  2. Request the septic record drawing and permit copies from your local permitting authority to obtain the documented design. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, read 2026-11-05.
  3. Ask for a written service scope listing a tank leak inspection and examination of the sludge and scum layers. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, read 2026-11-05.
  4. Request a service report recording the tank’s condition and any repairs the provider completed. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, read 2026-11-05.
  5. Record the professional’s sludge and scum readings to help track when the tank needs another pump-out. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, read 2026-11-05.
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How do I know if I have a septic system?

EPA’s homeowner guidance (read 2026-11-05) helps you distinguish documentary evidence from landscape clues when identifying your wastewater setup. “The property deed, building permit and design plans for your home and property will likely contain information about the presence (or lack) of a septic system.” (source) “For example, for some septic systems a mound or small hill is created for the installation of the drainfield.” (source) “A typical septic system consists of a septic tank and a drainfield (or soil absorption field).” (source)

Where should septic tanks be placed?

Use EPA’s placement guidance (read 2026-11-05) to discuss site constraints and future service access before settling on a tank location. “Your local health department may have septic tank placement requirements and a minimum setback distance from your foundation.” (source) “Septic tanks should be placed away from areas subject to flooding and surface water ponding.” (source) “Also, place the septic tank where it is accessible for future inspections and pump outs.” (source)

Is one type of septic system better than another?

Use EPA’s comparison and Washington code section 246-272A-0232 (read 2026-11-05) to discuss site suitability and compartment layout with your designer. “Some properties can be served by a conventional gravity septic tank and drainfield, while others may require advanced technologies for wastewater treatment or alternate drainfields – like low pressure pipe or drip distribution systems.” (source) In Washington, “Septic tanks must: (1) Have at least two compartments with the first compartment liquid volume equal to one-half to two-thirds of the total liquid volume.” (source) In Washington, “This standard may be met by one tank with two compartments or by two single compartment tanks in series.” (source)

How often should my septic tank be pumped?

EPA (read 2026-11-05) explains which household and tank details affect service timing, so use these factors when discussing ongoing maintenance. “In general, a septic tank should be inspected every 1 to 3 years and pumped every 3 to 5 years.” (source) “The frequency of pumping the septic tank depends on the tank size, number of people in the household, habits of water use as well as the amount of solids accumulated in the tank.” (source)

Are additives recommended for septic systems?

EPA (read 2026-11-05) addresses additive claims and explains who should assess operational problems before you choose a treatment product. “However, use of these additives is not recommended for domestic wastewater treatment because there is already a significant presence of bacteria, enzymes, yeasts, fungi, and other microorganisms in onsite wastewater treatment systems.” (source) “Additive products can be ineffective or even harm system operation and the environment.” (source) “Any operational issues should be assessed by a septic system professional or local regulator.” (source)

How long does a septic system last?

EPA (read 2026-11-05) separates tank durability from other component lifespans, helping you discuss which part may need attention. “Typically, a septic tank made of concrete may last 50 years or more, although older tanks may not be as well constructed as newer tanks.” (source) “If your septic system includes a pump, many pumps and controls will need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years.” (source) “If your drainfield is more than 25 to 30 years old, the natural biomat that forms in the bottom of the trenches or beds can thicken and reduce the ability of the drainfield to properly discharge the wastewater into the ground.” (source)

How do I find a copy of my septic system's design?

EPA (read 2026-11-05) identifies the records to request when you need the documented layout rather than a guess about buried components. “You can contact these entities to obtain a copy of your property’s septic record drawing (the “as-built” design) and copies of the permit(s).” (source)

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