What factor does NOT significantly affect the performance of a septic system?

The performance of a septic system is influenced by several key factors, and local weather patterns typically do not play a significant role compared to others.

Soil type is critical because it determines how well wastewater can be absorbed and filtered, which directly impacts the efficiency of the system. Water usage habits are essential as they dictate the volume of wastewater generated and how frequently the system needs to be maintained. Household size also affects the amount of waste produced, leading to different demands on the system.

In contrast, while local weather can have some indirect effects, such as influencing groundwater levels or the rate of evaporation, it does not fundamentally alter how the septic system operates in the same way that soil characteristics, water usage, or the number of occupants do. Thus, local weather patterns are less likely to significantly impact the fundamental performance metrics of a septic system compared to the other factors listed.