Septic Systems: Pros and Cons in Boise, ID

Septic systems are not uncommon here in southern Idaho; especially for homes in more rural areas, septic tanks are often the go-to wastewater solution. Although many people understand that septic system means an underground holding tank for waste, understanding the logistics of how a septic tank works takes the mystery out of this useful system. 

1. Waste water is flushed or otherwise enters the drain. 

2. The water flows through pipes to the grease trap, which captures oils and allows other wastes and water to pass through.

3. The wastewater arrives in the septic tank, a holding structure made of concrete, fiberglass, steel, or some other impermeable material; as time passes, the wastewater settles. Scum is the debris that floats to the top of the water, and sludge settles to the bottom of the tank. 

4. The layer of water between the scum and sludge is drained off and follows pipes to the leech field.

5. Perforated pipes in the leech field allows water to slowly seep into the ground. 

6. The water filters through layers of rock and soil, where environmental microorganisms contribute to water purification, and purified water enters the water table.

7. Back in the septic tank, anaerobic bacteria breaks down waste inside of the tank, creating an ecosystem that organically reduces the waste. 

Most homes will come with either access to city water and sewer systems or a pre-existing septic tank; especially with Boise and surrounding areas growing so rapidly, homeowners who may not have considered purchasing a home with a septic tank may find themselves considering a home with a septic system to broaden their options. If you find yourself in this position, you may want to consider the pros and cons of a septic system to determine whether a septic system is something you’d be willing to take on. 

Pros of Having a Septic System: 

• Environmentally friendly: installing sewer and water lines requires installing miles of pipes underground, disrupting wildlife along the way. In contrast, septic tanks only require digging around the immediate area of the building to install pipes, the tank, and drain field. 

• Affordability: although a septic tank does require regular maintenance, because they are privately owned, there are no monthly maintenance fees, and the overall costs tend to be lower than being connected to city water. 

• Longevity: well-maintained septic tanks are known to last for decades; once installed, it’s a simple matter to schedule regular maintenance and not have to worry about replacement. In fact, many septic tanks outlast the length of time a family lives in a given home. 

• Easier to fix: because septic is a localized system, there is no need to wait on the local government to act or for official employees of the state to work with you. It’s significantly easier to identify and repair an issue. 

Cons of Having a Septic System: 

• Daily cautions: because septic systems rely on water draining back into the earth, high water usage can result in the system being overwhelmed. Because of this, septic system owners should consider bathing the kids and running laundry on alternate days. Additionally, putting tons of food down a garbage disposal also increases the risk of clogging the grease trap or other parts of the septic system. 

• Required maintenance: septic tanks must be pumped out every 2-5 years. The length of time it takes for a septic tank to become full depends on the number of individuals living in a home, the size of the tank, and other water needs. Neglecting to pump a full tank can pose a sanitation hazard and much bigger issues down the line. 

• Increased risk of broken pipes: septic systems should be installed a decent distance away from trees. Because of the nutrient-rich wastes that can seep through tiny cracks, tree roots are drawn to septic pipes and can burst them. Trucks and heavy machinery that may enter your property during landscaping work can also pose a threat. 

• Medications: septic wastes are broken down by anaerobic bacteria. If anyone in your home is on antibiotics for an extended time, the trace amounts of antibiotic in your wastewater may disrupt the ecosystem required to break down wastes in your septic tank. 

Both septic systems and public water and sewer systems have a number of pros and cons; we hope that this informative article helps you understand the advantages and disadvantages of septic systems to help you make the best decision for your family. ASAP Septic serves Boise, Mountain Home, Payette, ID, and all surrounding areas in southern Idaho. Fill out our online contact form or give us a call at (208) 991-7184 for more information or to schedule our services today.