How to Know if You Have Sewer System or Septic System
Sewer system, septic system, sewer system, septic system – which one is it? While some people may use these terms interchangeably, there’s a huge difference between the two, which has major implications for your home. But how are you supposed to know which system you have? Well, there’s a simple way to figure this out. However, first, we’ll cover the basics of each system and how they differ from one another. Then, we’ll let you know how you can find out what system you have, easily and cheaply!
Sewer System v. Septic System
While these systems may seem complicated, they really aren’t. A sewer system is a series of pipes that drain waste and wastewater from your home and feeds that water through a municipal drainage system to a water treatment facility. By contrast, a septic system is not part of a larger system and only contains the waste and wastewater produced at your home. This system empties the waste from your home into a large tank, which then filters the wastewater into a drainage field in your yard.
How do I know which system I have?
Things aren’t as complicated as they seem. There are multiple ways that you can easily figure out which type of system you have – read on to find out how!
1. Ask Someone
Whether it be the real estate agent that sold you the home or the water division that deals with your city, someone who deals with plumbing in your town will know which system you are on.
2. Observe Your Surroundings
Due to the expense of sewer systems, they must serve enough residents for the installation, service, and repair of these systems to offset the cost of operating them. If you live in a rural area with only a few neighbors, you have a septic tank. If you live in a suburb or a city, you have a sewer system. Somewhere in between? See #1.
3. Check Your Utility Bills
Do you receive a water bill? If yes, then you’re on a sewer system. The city maintains the sewer system, and you’d better believe they’ll be charging you for what you owe. If you don’t receive a water bill, you must be on a septic system, or you don’t have water running to your home, but that’s a whole different problem.
Questions about your water system? Contact the pros at Bailey for honest answers that you can count on!
