What factors can lead to a septic system failure?

Septic system failure can primarily be attributed to factors such as poor design and lack of maintenance. A well-designed septic system is crucial for effective waste treatment, ensuring that sewage is properly broken down and filtered before being released into the soil. If the system is improperly designed, it may not handle the volume of waste produced by the household or may not be suited for the specific characteristics of the site, such as soil type and groundwater levels.

Furthermore, regular maintenance, including pumping out the tank and inspecting the system, is essential to prevent issues like clogs, leaks, or backups. Without proper maintenance, solids can accumulate, inhibit the treatment process, and lead to system failure.

While consistent watering of lawns (the second choice) can potentially impact a septic system by saturating the soil, this is more of a contributing factor rather than a primary cause of failure. Using environmentally friendly cleaning products (the third choice) is generally beneficial for maintaining healthy septic systems, as harsh chemicals can disrupt the natural biological processes necessary for breaking down waste. Therefore, the most accurate answer emphasizes the importance of the fundamental aspects of septic system design and maintenance in ensuring its proper functionality.