Older farmhouses have that certain charm that makes it feel as though you are stepping back in time. While you may have fallen in love with your house's history, one of the downsides of owning an older home is that you may not have all the information readily available to keep up with the maintenance. While septic systems that were installed years ago may be hard to figure out at first, you can use these tips to solve the mystery and keep the plumbing at your house in working order.

Check a Map

Typically, the previous homeowners should be able to give you insight into the current location and condition of the septic system. However, farmhouses that sat empty for years or that are handed down in the family may not have owners who remember the history. Fortunately, many rural counties keep records regarding the installation of septic systems. Ideally, this record should be provided to you with the inspection paperwork during the purchase of your home, but you might not have it if you inherited the property. If this is the case, then check with your local county clerk or health department to find out if there may be a map that shows exactly where the system is located.

Take a Walk Around the Property

Septic systems connect to the sewage line that runs from the house, which makes it easy to know where to begin your search on foot. Start by locating this line, and use a thin, metal rod to probe the earth every several feet until you hit metal or concrete. Keep in mind that septic systems typically are at least five feet away from the exterior of a house. The ground near the system may also be slightly lower than the surround area. Once you locate the system, do not open it since septic tanks contain toxic fumes, and there is a risk of falling inside.

Schedule an Inspection

Septic systems should be inspected as part of the purchase of your house, and annual inspections are an essential part of your property maintenance plans. During an inspection of an older septic system, a professional can make sure that it is the right size for the new household demands. They will also check the levels in the tank to see if a septic pump out is necessary.

The septic system that pumps waste away from your house is essential for your health and comfort. By knowing how to get to the bottom of your septic tank mystery, you can set up a proper sanitation system that keeps your property free of harmful waste.