If you are building a new house or buying an existing home, its important that you have a good understating of the difference between sewer and septic systems.
Sewer systems and septic systems are both involved in wastewater disposal but the two systems are very different. A sewer line takes the waste water from your home through your sewer lateral and connects to the municipal sewer system where it ends up at treatment facility to be separated and disposed of.
A septic system is installed directly into your property and disposes of household wastewater by separating solid material and allowing fluids to percolate into the ground. A septic system includes a septic tank which is where all of the waste liquids and solids from your home are sent. Solid material accumulates in the tank and biodegrades naturally. Liquids flow into a system of perforated pipes called a leach field that allows the liquid to percolate into the ground.
A sewer system needs relatively little maintenence unless it becomes clogged, but regular maintenance and and proper usage habits are important to keep a septic system working and in good condition. A septic system should be inspected every two to three years and septic tank pumping is necessary every three to five years. You should be careful not to put anything down the drains except water and household waste and try not to overload the system by running the dishwasher, washing machine, and showers at the same time.
In any house no matter whether you are renting or buying, one of the most important features will be the drains and sewer system. Whilst new homebuyers are always concerned with the number of bedrooms and bathrooms in the property, they should also be concerned with the condition of the plumbing and sewer line or septic system. It is an excellent idea to have the sewer line and/or septic system inspected prior to purchasing a home. Problems with these sytems can be hidden and they can be very expensive to repair.
