When it comes to domestic plumbing systems in Georgia, there are basically two options: local sewer systems and individual septic systems. For the majority of homeowners, the choice has already been made. Most people who are on a septic system have moved into a home with an existing septic tank and inherited this type of plumbing system. However, if you are building a new home, you may have the option to choose between a septic and sewer.
Here are some primary factors to consider when making your decision, including some advantages you’ll gain from installing your own personal septic system versus linking up to your local sewer.
Cost
Sewer systems involve a monthly utility expense. Septic systems, however, require an upfront investment plus the cost of septic pumpings or maintenance every 2-3 years. It is important to do the math here, as the cost of a sewer system can quickly add up. On average, you could pay over $16,000 for your sewer over the course of 10 years. With a septic system, you can expect expenses to be between $3,000 and $5,000 over the same time frame, which is 20%-30% of the cost of sewer!
Maintenance
It’s true that you don’t have to be totally responsible for maintaining your sewer system, as this is done by the local municipality. However, you’ll see the cost of upgrades and maintenance in your monthly rates. Owning a septic system does require that you schedule your own routine septic pumpings, but this is only necessary every 2-3 years for most tanks.
Independence
It may seem ideal to share overall maintenance costs with other members of your community when relying on a sewer system. However, you’ll also share in any local outages, blockages or construction pauses. It can be less disruptive to own your own septic system and operate independently from the rest of the county so that your water usage is not suddenly stopped at an inconvenient time.
Sustainability
Keep in mind that if you are on municipal sewer systems, you are reaping the impact that industrial drainage is having on your personal plumbing, which can include water contamination and chemical additives that disrupt the local ecology. Septic tanks, on the other hand, utilize naturally occurring bacteria to reduce solid waste within your septic tank. What little wastewater your septic tank produces is then reintroduced into the soil or drain field, which treats and filters it over a more expansive area of greater groundwater.
Do you have a choice on whether to go septic or sewer? We are happy to help you decide at Metro Septic. We find that homeowners who value independence, sustainability, and affordability over the long-term are more satisfied with septic systems.