Septic Tank Filter: Does Yours Have One & Where Is It?

First, not all septic tanks have a filter, especially the older septic tanks. Now many government agencies require or recommend a filter when a septic tank is installed.

Cleaning a septic tank filter is different than pumping out a septic tank and cleaning it.

A Septic tank filter

Filters are usually located in the septic tank near the end where the effluents leave the tank and flow to the leach field. A filter will help trap small particles of suspended solids and particle matter that was not caught in the portion of the tank where the majority of the sludge and scum is found.

Basically, a filter helps reduce the particulate matter and suspended solids before they enter the leach field.

Filters extends the life and efficiency of a leach field

The filter will reduce clogging of a drain field and helps increase the efficiency of the field. Overall the life expectancy of a septic leach field may be 10 to 20 years, with some lasting longer, i.e. 30 years, with proper maintenance and good soil for percolation.  Septic tanks may last 40 years +/-. This is one of the reasons many localities want a second leach filed area identified on plans before they will issue a permit.

Septic failure or slow draining sinks and toilets may be related to a filter issue

If a filter is clogged or partially clogged, it may not be letting the effluent water from the tank flow into the drain (leach) field. Then the tank and sewer line may not drain properly and back-up. Signs may include toilets backing up and slow draining sinks.

How often should you clean a septic filter?

This varies from system to system, type of filter and usage. There are those who say each time you have the tank pumped you have the filter cleaned. Many septic companies automatically do this as part of their service. However, if you start out checking your filter in six months after you first installed it or after the first pumping of the tank of a home you bought, and it is pretty clean, then you might try going a year and then checking it. Over a period of years you will be able to determine what is the best cleaning schedule for your particular circumstances.

How often should you pump out a septic tank?

The answer varies; it generally falls between 2 and 5 years, with most systems needing to be pumped every 3 or 4 years. The reason it varies so much is that there are many variables. The size of the tank, the family size living in the home, the dietary and cooking habits of the family (i.e. do they use a lot of oils and grease), do they have a garbage disposal that they use a lot.

David Jones - General Contractor, Home Inspector, Consultant

David has over 45 years’ experience as a general contractor, inspector and professional instructor. He writes articles for homeowners, new home buyers and Real Estate Agents. Read more