Replacing a septic system is a costly project so you need to maintain your system properly to prevent its premature failure. Knowing why septic systems fail can help you prevent regular failures of the system; this will also prolong the life of the septic system. Below are some of the most common reasons for septic system failure:

Damage from Tree Roots

Tree roots cause damage by blocking the sewer pipes. It is not easy for tree roots to damage a newly installed system whose pipes are still intact. The roots don't have the strength to crack or penetrate the pipes. However, as the system ages, its pipes weaken and develop cracks. The tree roots than find their way through the small cracks, enlarging the cracks and blocking the pipes. This is why you aren't supposed to plant trees near a septic system.

Damage from Heavy Equipment

Driving or dragging heavy equipment or vehicles over the septic drain field or tank can cause damage in various ways. For one, the heavy equipment compacts the soil and reduces its water retaining capacity; this reduces the effectiveness of the septic drain field. Secondly, the heavy equipment can damage the septic tank cover and associated fixtures such as pipes, causing them to malfunction. Therefore, know where your septic system is located and don't drive vehicles or operate heavy machinery in the area.

Poor Maintenance

Every septic system needs to be maintained to keep it operational. All septic systems age and fail, but the poorly maintained systems are the first to fail. Pumping the septic tank is one of the most useful maintenance practices; it rids the tank if the sludge and scum that has collected over the years to keep it working. Additional maintenance practices include prompt repair of damages and malfunctions, not pouring grease down the drain, minimizing the use of heavy-duty cleaners, and diverting floodwater from the septic drain field.

Excessive Water Use

Using too much water in your house can also cause the septic system to malfunction. This is because overloading the septic tank with water reduces the time the scum and sludge have to separate. As a result, the septic system (specifically drain field) will fail because it will not be performing its main duty which is to separate the waste from the water.

Regular maintenance of your septic system should keep it working for a reasonable lifetime. If you don't already have a regular maintenance schedule for your septic system, consult a plumber today and come up with a suitable schedule. To learn more, contact a company like Moon Valley Plumbing.