- Relocate the field lines. If the tank can remain in place but the field lines must be moved, this will require more work and more materials. Mark out the location for the new field lines and use the backhoe to dig the ditches.
Can field lines be moved?
Relocate the field lines. If the tank can remain in place but the field lines must be moved, this will require more work and more materials. Mark out the location for the new field lines and use the backhoe to dig the ditches. The new field lines need to be the same size or larger than the existing lines.
Can you move a Drainfield?
Yes, definitely. If you want to relocate your septic tank, the first thing you need to do is contact a certified septic system professional. The process of moving a tank can be very time consuming for untrained personnel.
Can you relocate a leach field?
It is possible to relocate your septic tank system, but it’s essential to do it correctly. Here are some things to keep in mind. Moving your septic tank system does not just involve moving the tank. Therefore, it’s crucial to contact a company that specializes in relocating septic tank systems.
How hard is it to move a septic field?
Septic systems can be difficult to maneuver, and many people find that it is easier to simply purchase a new one rather than move an old one. Sometimes this can be the appropriate choice, as older tanks, particularly concrete ones, have a tendency to fall apart when they are moved.
How much does it cost to move a leach field?
Although costs vary according to the size of the leach field, soils and costs of local permits, expect to pay between $5,000 and $20,000 for leach field replacement. It is the most expensive component of the septic system.
How close can a septic tank be to a inground pool?
Installing an inground pool has greater restrictions and will probably need to be installed at least 15 to 25 feet away from the septic tank or leach lines, depending on your county’s code requirements.
Can you reuse a septic tank?
In addition to the standard abandonment process of pumping your septic tank and having it rendered useless by filling it with gravel or cement and crushing the tank lids, you have the opportunity to reuse your tank as a cistern.
How close can you build to a septic tank?
Septic tanks should be at least 7 metres away from any habitable parts of the building. They should also be located within 30 metres of an access point so that the tank can be emptied.
How long do septic tanks last?
A septic system’s lifespan should be anywhere from 15 to 40 years. How long the system lasts depends on a number of factors, including construction material, soil acidity, water table, maintenance practices, and several others.
How do you drain a pool with a septic tank?
If you have a septic tank, do not drain your pool into the tank. automatic water fill valve. in the ground and close to the home, often near a water spigot. The port should have a rubber or threaded cap with a square wrench fitting and be about three to four inches in diameter.
How much does it cost to move a cesspool?
The cost of installing a brand new septic system can go from around $4000 to $15,000.
How much does a mound system cost?
Mound Septic System Cost A mound septic system costs $10,000 to $20,000 to install. It’s the most expensive system to install but often necessary in areas with high water tables, shallow soil depth or shallow bedrock.
How long does a septic tank last UK?
A steel septic tank can be susceptible to rusting and has a life expectancy of around 15 to 20 years. Plastic tanks last longer – around 30 years or so – and concrete tanks, which are the sturdiest, can last for 40 years or more.
How to Move a Septic System to Put in an Inground Pool
It is possible to install an inground pool on the same land as your septic system. If you are moving into or owning a property with a septic system, you may want to consider installing an in-ground pool. Fortunately, the greatest position for the pool just so happens to be the same place where your sewage system is placed. Assuming you have the space on your property to handle both systems, they are quite compatible; however, the septic system will need to be relocated in order to make room for the pool.
Step 1
Determine which components of your septic system need to be relocated before you begin. There are three different possibilities that may occur. First and foremost, all system components must be relocated. Second, just the field lines themselves need to be relocated. Only the plumbing running between the tank and field lines has to be moved, according to the third point. Each of them has a unique set of difficulties and requirements.
Step 2
Determine which components of your septic system need to be relocated before you begin the process. There are three different scenarios that might play out: To begin, all of the system’s components must be transported to a different location. Second, just the field lines need to be relocated in order to complete the transformation. To complete this project, all that is required is the relocation of the piping between the tank and the field lines. There are distinct differences in the obstacles and needs for each of them.
Step 3
Determine which parts of your septic system need to be relocated. There are three different situations that may play out. First and foremost, all components of the system must be relocated. Second, just the field lines need to be relocated in order to complete the task. Third, just the piping between the tank and the field lines will need to be relocated, not the tank itself. Each of them has a unique set of problems and requirements.
Step 4
Move the complete system to a new location. Start by constructing a new septic tank, ditches leading to and from the tank, and field lines, all of which must be completed before the field lines can be installed. Prepare to have the septic tank emptied out and then moved to the new location. Installation of new pipe from the home to the tank, as well as new piping from the tank to the field lines Install field lines that are the same width and length as the current field lines on the field. Old field lines, gravel, and PVC piping can be left in place, with just the materials that will be immediately impacted by the pool construction needing to be removed.
Tip
Install the drain for your swimming pool away from the septic system to avoid contamination. It will be necessary to empty your pool from time to time.
As soon as this happens, divert the water as far away from the septic system as you possibly can. The introduction of that much water into your septic system at once might be extremely hazardous, resulting in backups and even system collapse in certain cases.
How to Change the Leach Field Direction for the Septic Tank
It is best to locate your pool drain away from your septic system. It will be necessary to empty your pool on an irregular basis. As soon as this occurs, divert the water as far away from the septic system as you reasonably can. Injecting a large volume of water simultaneously into your septic system might be extremely hazardous, causing backups and even system collapse.
Step 1
Carry out your own investigation. The majority of septic systems are constructed by professionals, and the leach lines are put in the most advantageous location. When constructing a leach field or drain field, make sure that the soil is sandy enough to allow the effluent to drain within the specified time frame. Setbacks from property lines, dwellings, wells (which may include adjoining properties), bodies of water, and marshy or drainage regions must be observed, as well as from other structures.
Step 2
If you feel the lines can be relocated, consult with a septic engineer or a professional installation. Inquire with him about visiting your home to see whether it is possible to realign your drain field. In many places, a new septic system design must contain a reserve space to allow for the installation of a replacement leach field in the event that the original one fails. It may be possible to construct a new leach field and divert the leach lines if the setback ordinances create an issue with the present leach field and if you have a reserve land available for this purpose.
Step 3
Inquire with your local health department about obtaining a permit. It is necessary to submit a design that shows the position of the residence, the borders, drainages, water bodies, neighboring wells, the existing leach field, and the proposed new placement and direction of the lines with respect to the home. In most states, it is possible to draw it by hand. If you are planning to relocate your leach field, you may be required to have soil testing completed by a licensed septic professional before your application can be approved.
Step 4
Excavate in preparation for the new lines. Dug the trenches according to the local standards that were specified. It is common for them to be at least 18 inches deep and to be lined with a certain size of gravel or filter cloth. In some states, they are also required to include a man-made PVC “vault.” Remove the current pipes and reinstall or realign the distribution box, as necessary. Replace the existing pipes in the new trenches if they are still in excellent shape, or install new pipes if the old ones are in poor condition.
Make a phone call to the health department inspector.
Cost of moving drain field / septic tank?
Greetings to everyone. When it comes to transferring a septic tank and drain field, I’m curious how much it will cost (roughly speaking). In order for me to expand the rear of my house and add a pool, the drain field/tank must be moved out of the way. I’ve looked into securing a connection to municipal or county water, but haven’t had much luck locating the necessary information. I’m just looking for some ballpark figures. My property has risen in value somewhere in the 70-80K area, so I believe it would be cost effective, but I want to be certain of the expenditures involved before proceeding.
I have contacts in the pool construction industry, and my family is involved in the construction industry. Hopefully, this will allow me to save a little time. Thank you in advance for any information you may supply. Russ
Please accept my greetings to everyone. When it comes to transferring a septic tank and drain field, I’m curious how much it will cost (roughly). The drain field/tank is in the way of my plans to expand the back of my house and install a pool. If you are interested in connecting with a municipal or county water system, I can provide you with that information if you are willing to provide it. I’m only looking for ballpark figures. The value of my home has increased somewhere in the area of 70-80K, so I believe it would be cost effective, but I want to be certain of the prices before proceeding further.
- My family is involved in the construction industry, and I have ties in the pool building industry.
- Any information you can supply will be much appreciated.
- I was wondering how much it would cost (roughly) to relocate a septic tank and drain field.
- I’ve looked into getting connected to municipal or county water, but haven’t had much luck locating the necessary information.
- My property has risen in value somewhere in the 70-80K area, so I believe it would be cost effective, but I want to be certain of the expenditures involved before moving further.
- I have business ties in the pool construction industry, and my family is involved in the construction industry.
- Thank you for providing any information you can.
- Around here (in central Florida), a backhoe operator may expect to work little more than a half day each week.
- In your situation, they would have to remove at the very least the old septic tank.
- How about 15-30 minutes with a backhoe digging/breaking up the rubble and placing it onto a dump truck?
The cost of fixing an existing septic system as opposed to connecting to the municipal sanitary sewage system is likely to be lower if the decision is between repairing what you have and linking into the municipal sanitary sewer system, as shown in the table below: It appears that you have an option between establishing a (nearly new) septic system or connecting to the city’s sanitary pipes.
Installing a pool, similar to performing an excessive kitchen renovation, seldom pays for itself in terms of resale value. If you want it for yourself, go ahead and get it. However, as an investment, what do you think? Forget about it.
I’ve finally tracked down the individual with whom I need to speak about being connected to city/county sewage. That was always my first option when it came to music. You’re correct, installing a pool might not be the most cost-effective investment, but I live in Central Florida, so. Everyone claims that it is not cost effective, however the prices of pool homes in this area do not appear to reflect that claim. In any case, this is for our own enjoyment, not for selling value. The reason I stated equity is that a pool home with the additional space we need costs between $250 and $265 thousand dollars in our location.
- Our home is around 1700 square feet heated, and we owe 105 thousand dollars on it.
- We want to remain in this location for at least another 6 or 7 years, if not longer.
- These activities are not being carried out for the purpose of increasing investment potential.
- Our plans are to change jobs once I return from Iraq, and we intend to remain in this town for a period of time following the transition.
Can You Relocate a Septic System
In the process of obtaining a connection to city/county sewage, I have finally located the person I needed to contact. Always my first pick, no matter what. The fact that I live in Central Florida means that installing a pool may not be a cost-effective investment, hah hah. Everyone claims that it is not cost effective, yet the prices of pool homes in this area appear to defy that claim. In any case, this is for our own enjoyment, not for profit. My reference to equity was motivated by the fact that a pool home with the additional space we need in our neighborhood costs between $250 and $265,000.
- 1700 square feet heated, and we have a mortgage of 105 thousand dollars.
- In any case, we want to remain in this location for at least another 6 to 7 years.
- These activities are not being carried out for the purpose of maximizing investment potential.
- After I return from Iraq, my wife and I intend to change our jobs, and we intend to remain in this town for a time after that.
Where to put the pool?
Hi! I’m a newcomer to the forum. After much deliberation, my husband and I have decided to have a pool built in our backyard (we were originally scheduled to begin construction this past winter, but were forced to postpone for a variety of reasons). As a result of the extra time, I’m beginning to question where the pool is located. We have an acre property that is both narrow and lengthy. There’s also a septic system in the center of it (ugh! – this is one of the reasons for the delay). Originally, we planned to put the pool on one side of our yard that was closer to the home, however one of our septic lines is too close to the proposed placement.
However, it appears to me that it is unnecessary to relocate the septic line and spend the additional money when we have so much more room only a few feet farther back in the yard and would not be required to relocate the septic line.
Would you rather pay the extra money and relocate the line to have the pool 30 feet closer to the home – or – would you rather have the pool a bit further back and save the extra inconvenience and cost of relocating the line.
Putting it further back was something my husband and I were both in favor of, but after seeing the pictures you all share, the pools look just stunning! being in such close proximity to the house Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Moving septic lines for inground pool. (Matthews: home, buy, contractors) – Charlotte – North Carolina (NC)
Please registerto participate in our discussions with 2 million other members – it’s free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After youcreate your account, you’ll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.| Location: Matthews NC99 posts, read268,154timesReputation: 63 |
| Has anyone had to move their drainage lines for the installation of an inground pool?We are looking at a home with a huge backyard but accoridng to the survey the drainage lines are in a weird postion.Has anyone had them moved to install an inground pool or is there an alternative solution for the drainage line.Can anyone recommend a reputable company,we arelooking in Matthews. |
| Location: The Triad (NC)32,210 posts, read74,589,905timesReputation: 39560 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byPROFGHHas anyone had to move their drainage lines for the installation of an inground pool? We are looking at a home with a huge backyard but according to the survey the drainage lines are in a weird position. Has anyone had them moved to install an inground pool or is there an alternative solution for the drainage line. Can anyone recommend a reputable company, we arelooking in Matthews.It would be less work, bother and expense to put the pool somewhere else.Somewhere that the pipes aren’t. |
| 16,195 posts, read22,995,602timesReputation: 26863 |
| Not sure I would want to have a pool where the septic previously was. No other choice for location? |
| Location: Matthews NC99 posts, read268,154timesReputation: 63 |
| Its how they are postioned kinda of on angle,property 300’x150.The back yard is huge but on the survey it seems that the septic lines are on an 45 deg angle.Looks like the drainfiled takes up 1600 sq ftand taking up some of the land we would like to use.If they could be straightened out it would work.We would also like to put up a pole barn/garage as well.It seems that this huge backyard is almost useless.Any alternatives to this problem? |
| Location: The Triad (NC)32,210 posts, read74,589,905timesReputation: 39560 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byPROFGHWe would also like to put up a pole barn/garage as well.It seems that this huge backyard is almost useless. Any alternatives to this problem?Choose a different property if you KNOW you want those things. |
| You probably will need to consider having another perc test done for wherever you plan to put the lines. |
| Location: Matthews NC99 posts, read268,154timesReputation: 63 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byMrRationalChoose a different property if you KNOW you want those things.I was afraid someone was going to say that,not what I wanted to hear. |
| Location: The Triad (NC)32,210 posts, read74,589,905timesReputation: 39560 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byPROFGHI was afraid someone was going to say that.Does this mean that you thought there wasn’t any need to see the survey plat and have it reviewed by the pool and other contractors before you bought?Have you found the old or paid for a new survey yet?Check with the county for the septic plan that should be on file?What about the well? |
| Location: Matthews NC99 posts, read268,154timesReputation: 63 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byMrRationalDoes this mean that you thought there wasn’t any need to see the survey plat and have it reviewed by the pool and other contractors before you bought?Have you found the old or paid for a new survey yet?Check with the county for the septic plan that should be on file?What about the well?Did not buy yet,almost in contract,nothing signed yet.Well in front of house,we have a survey from when home was built,a bit grainy though but it does show what I am explaining.Yes working on pol contractor and builder for pole barn as well. |
| Location: The Triad (NC)32,210 posts, read74,589,905timesReputation: 39560 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byPROFGHDid not buy yet,almost in contract,nothing signed yet.Well in front of house,we have a survey from when home was built.1) have the septic and well checked thoroughly.2) if there’s a problem with the existing tank, pipes or leech field. know it NOWand have the current seller deal with it or have the price reflect that3) if it’s OK as is. and you still build do that somewhere that the septic system isn’t.4) call in a surveyor too (most don’t charge that much) |
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How much does it cost to move a septic drain field?
If you have a troublesome drainfield, the first indicator you’ll notice is usually a “swampy” region in your yard or a terrible smell (of sewage) on your land. When relocating a septic tank, it may be necessary to repair the drainfield, which can cost anywhere from $2,000 to as much as $10,000. The Price of Relocating a Septic Tank It is estimated that the average cost of septic tank installation in the United States is between $5,000 and $6,000. Aside from the aforementioned, is it possible to relocate a septic field?
- The use of older tanks, particularly concrete ones, has a propensity to fall apart when they are relocated, thus this might be a viable option in some situations.
- The drainor leachfieldis the component of the septic system that is responsible for transporting waste water back to the surrounding soil.
- Drain field replacement can range in price from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on the situation.
- Some signs of a failing drainfield include the following: the grass is greener overthedrainfieldthan in other parts of the yard; scents in the yard; clogged drainpipes; and ground that is damp or mushy over thedrainfield.
How much does it cost to move a septic line?
If you have a troublesome drainfield, the first indicator you’ll notice is usually a “swampy” region in your yard or a terrible smell (of sewage) emanating from your home. When relocating a septic tank, it is possible that the drainfields may need to be changed, which can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. Transferring a Septic Tank: What It Will Cost For a septic tank installation in the United States, the national average cost is between $5,000 and $6,000. Is it possible to relocate a septic field in addition to what has been said above?
Because older tanks, particularly concrete tanks, have a tendency to fall apart when relocated, this can be a viable option in some cases.
This is the portion of the septic system that is responsible for transporting waste water back to the earth.
Drain field replacement can range in price from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on the circumstances.
Some signs of a failing drainfield include the following: the grass is greener overthedrainfieldthan in other parts of the yard; scents in the yard; clogged drainpipes; and squishy or muddy ground over the drainfield. In addition to standing water, the laterals will most likely have a clog.
How to Flush Your Drain Field Lines
Drain field lines should be flushed at least once a year, if not more frequently. This is something that you can achieve on your own by following these eight steps! (Do you require further assistance? Alternatively, you may watch our instructional video.)
1.Locate your drain field lines.
Flush your drain field lines at least once a year to ensure that they are free of clogging. With these eight steps, you can complete this task on your own! (Do you require further assistance? Follow along with our instructional video if you prefer.
2. Remove the green cap.
TIP: It will be quite beneficial if you can have two individuals assist you with this stage. As a result, one of you can turn the switch while the other remains at the drain field to observe the water that is flushed. When the water is clear, the pump may be turned back to its automatic mode of operation.
5.Run the pump in step 4 until the water runs clear, approximately 10-20 seconds, then return the pump to auto.
There are certain distinctions in care, usage, and budgeting that you should be aware of, whether you’re a new homeowner with an existing septic system or considering about purchasing or building a home without sewer hookups. This document outlines three ways in which your budget will be affected if your wastewater is treated using a septic system. 1. You will not be required to budget for municipal sewer service. Because the municipal wastewater system normally processes all of the water, the cost of city sewage service is sometimes determined by how much water you purchase from the city.
- A large number of homes with septic systems also rely on wells for fresh water rather than municipal water, which means you’ll likely save money in that department as well.
- It is necessary to include septic maintenance in your budget.
- Although you are not required to pay the city for the usage of your septic system, you will be responsible for the costs of maintenance if you want the system to continue to function properly.
- It is possible that these maintenance and repair expenditures will build up over time, so you may want to consider setting up an emergency fund to cover any unforeseen repair bills.
- You’ll also need to budget for the cost of a single inspection and begin saving for the cost of a tank pump.
- Spreading the expenditures out over several months is the most effective budgeting strategy, even for an expense such as tank pumping that does not occur every year, because it allows you to better estimate the costs ahead of time.
- You may need to set aside money for septic tank replacement.
The tank and leach field may not need to be replaced if you have a reasonably recent septic system and plan to sell your home within a few years.
If, on the other hand, your home’s septic system is more than a decade old, you’ll want to start looking into how much a new system would cost you as soon as possible.
For example, if the previous owners did not do routine maintenance or if the system was installed on clay soil, the system may need to be replaced.
It is a prudent decision to begin putting money aside in anticipation of this eventuality.
When you have a septic system, you may use these three strategies to budget differently.
Make an appointment with us right away if you’re searching for someone to pump out your septic tank or to complete an annual examination of your septic system. Our experts at C.E. Taylor and Son Inc. would be happy to assist you with any septic system assessment, maintenance, or repair needs.
Septic Tank Installation and Pricing
To process and dispose of waste, a septic system has an underground septic tank constructed of plastic, concrete, fiberglass, or other material that is located beneath the earth. Designed to provide a customized wastewater treatment solution for business and residential locations, this system may be installed anywhere. Although it is possible to construct a septic tank on your own, we recommend that you hire a professional to do it owing to the amount of skill and specific equipment required.
Who Needs a Septic Tank?
For the most part, in densely populated areas of the nation, a home’s plumbing system is directly connected to the municipal sewer system. Because municipal sewer lines are not readily available in more rural regions, sewage must be treated in a septic tank. If you’re moving into a newly constructed house or onto land that doesn’t already have a septic tank, you’ll be responsible for putting in a septic system on your own.
How to Prepare for Your Septic Tank Installation
Here are a few pointers to keep in mind to make sure your septic tank installation goes as smoothly as possible.
Receive Multiple Estimates
Receiving quotations from licensed septic tank installers and reading reviews about each firm using trustworthy, third-party customer evaluations should be done before any excavation or signing of any paperwork is done. Examine your options for a contractor and make sure they have the appropriate insurance and license, as well as the ability to include critical preparations such as excavation and drain field testing in their quotation.
Test the Soil and Obtain a Permit
For septic systems to function properly, permeable soil surrounding the tank must absorb and naturally handle liquid waste, ensuring that it does not pollute runoff water or seep into the groundwater. The drain or leach field is the name given to this region. Before establishing a septic tank, you are required by law to do a percolation test, sometimes known as a “perc” test. This test indicates that the soil fits the specifications established by the city and the local health agency. In most cases, suitable levels of permeable materials, such as sand or gravel, are necessary in a soil’s composition.
Note: If you wish to install a septic tank on your property, you must first ensure that the ground passes the percolation test.
Plan for Excavation
Excavation of the vast quantity of land required for a septic tank necessitates the use of heavy machinery. If you are presently residing on the property, be careful to account for landscaping fees to repair any damage that may have occurred during the excavation process. Plan the excavation for your new home at a period when it will have the least influence on the construction process if you are constructing a new home.
Typically, this occurs before to the paving of roads and walkways, but after the basic structure of the home has been constructed and erected. Adobe Licensed (Adobe Licensed)
The Cost of Installing a Septic Tank
There are a few installation charges and additional expenditures connected with constructing a new septic system, ranging from a percolation test to emptying the septic tank and everything in between.
Percolation Test
The cost of constructing a new septic system includes a variety of fees and expenditures ranging from a percolation test to emptying the septic tank, among other things.
Building Permit Application
A permit will be required if you want to install a septic tank on your property. State-by-state variations in permit prices exist, however they are normally priced around $200 and must be renewed every few years on average.
Excavation and Installation
It is necessary to get a permission in order to construct a septic tank on your site. State-by-state variations in permit prices exist, although they are normally priced around $200 and must be renewed every few years at the very least.
Types of Septic Tank Systems
Septic system that is used in the traditional sense Traditionally, a septic system relies on gravity to transport waste from the home into the septic tank. Solid trash settles at the bottom of the sewage treatment plant, while liquid sewage rises to the top. Whenever the amount of liquid sewage increases over the outflow pipe, the liquid waste is discharged into the drain field, where it continues to disintegrate. This type of traditional septic system is generally the most economical, with an average cost of roughly $3,000 on the market today.
Drain fields for alternative systems require less land than conventional systems and discharge cleaner effluent.
Septic system that has been engineered A poorly developed soil or a property placed on an uphill slope need the installation of an engineered septic system, which is the most difficult to install.
It is necessary to pump the liquid waste onto a leach field, rather than depending on gravity to drain it, in order to ensure that it is equally dispersed across the land.
Types of Septic Tanks
- Concrete septic tanks are long-lasting and rust-proof, but they are difficult to repair if they are damaged. It is possible that concrete tanks will cost up to $2,000 depending on their size. Plastic —While plastic tanks are cost-effective, they are also susceptible to damage. They are around $1,200 in price. Fiberglass —While fiberglass septic tanks are more durable than their plastic counterparts, they are susceptible to shifting or displacement if the water table rises to an excessive level. Depending on the model, these tanks may cost up to $2,000
More information may be found at: Septic Warranty Coverage and Costs.
Using Your Septic Tank
It is important to maintain the area around your new septic tank’s drain field and to frequently check your tank using the lids included with it. Never use a trash disposal in conjunction with your septic tank since it might cause the system to clog. Additionally, avoid driving over the land where your septic tank is located or putting heavy gear on top of your septic tank or drain field to prevent damage. Most of the time, after five years of septic system use, you’ll need to arrange a cleaning and pumping of the system.
Consequently, there will be no accumulation of solid waste that will leach into the surrounding soil or groundwater. Send an email to our Reviews Team [email protected] if you have any comments or questions regarding this post.
How a Septic System Works – and Common Problems
It is important to maintain the ground surrounding the leach field and to frequently examine your septic tank using the lids included with it. You should avoid using a garbage disposal in conjunction with your septic tank since it might cause clogging. Aside from that, avoid driving over the land where your septic tank is located and using heavy machinery on or near your septic tank or drain field. If you’ve been using a septic system for more than five years, you’ll likely need to arrange a cleaning and pumping.
Alternatively, you may send an email to [email protected] if you have any comments or questions regarding this piece.
SEPTIC TANK
The wastewater is collected in the septic tank once it has been discharged from the residence. Septic tanks are normally between 1,000 and 2,000 gallons in capacity and are composed of concrete, strong plastic, or metal, depending on the model. Highly durable concrete tanks, which should endure for 40 years or more provided they are not damaged, are the most common. Many contemporary tanks are designed with two chambers in order to maximize efficiency. Household wastewater is collected in the septic tank, where it is separated and begins to degrade before being discharged into the leach field.
- In the tank, oil and grease float to the top of the tank, where they are known as scum, while solid waste falls to the bottom, where they are known as sludge.
- Bacteria and other microorganisms feed on the sediments at the bottom of the tank, causing them to decompose in an anaerobic (without oxygen) process that begins at the bottom of the tank.
- Solids and grease must be pushed out of the system on a regular basis in order for it to continue to function effectively.
- Each gallon added to the tank results in one gallon being discharged to the leach field, leach pit, or other similar treatment facility.
Leach Field
When used properly, a leach field (also known as a “drain field”) is a series of perforated pipes that are typically buried in gravel trenches 18 to 36 inches below grade — deep enough to avoid freezing, but close enough to the surface that air can reach the bacteria that further purify the effluent (see illustration below). As little as 6 inches might separate you from the ground surface, depending on your soil type and municipal regulations. It is customary to cover the perforated pipes with approximately two inches of gravel and a layer of topsoil that is 18 to 24 inches in depth.
- Grass is often sown above the ground.
- The leach field is comprised of rows of perforated pipes in gravel trenches that are used to spread wastewater over a vast area in order to further purify it.
- A bacteria-rich slime mat forms where the gravel meets the soil, and it is responsible for the majority of the water purification work.
- Despite the fact that wastewater freezes at a far lower temperature than pure water, freezing is still a hazard in cold areas.
- The leftover pathogens are converted into essential plant nutrients by these organisms, while sand, gravel, and soil filter out any solids that remain.
- If the system is operating effectively, the filtered wastewater will return to the aquifer as naturally clean water that is suitable for human consumption at this stage.
- Alternative systems may be permitted in situations when traditional leach fields are unable to function properly owing to poor soil conditions or a high water table.
These systems sometimes cost twice or three times as much as a regular system and require significantly more upkeep. Special systems may also be necessary in regions where there are flood plains, bodies of water, or other ecologically sensitive areas to protect against flooding.
SIZING THE LEACH FIELD
Using perforated pipes put in gravel-filled trenches, the drain field is sized to accommodate the number of beds in the house. In order for the system to function successfully, the leach field must be appropriately sized for the soil type and amount of wastewater, which is normally determined by the number of bedrooms in the house. In order for the liquid to seep into the soil, it must be permeable enough to do so. As a result, the denser the soil, the larger the leach field that is necessary.
- Better to have surplus capacity in your system than to have it cut too close to the bone.
- Septic tank backup into your house, pooling on the surface of the earth, or polluting local groundwater are all possibilities if the ground is incapable of absorbing the liquid.
- Dense clay soils will not absorb the liquid at a sufficient rate, resulting in a backlog.
- If the soil is mostly composed of coarse sand and gravel, it might drain at such a rapid rate that untreated sewage can poison the aquifer or damage surrounding bodies of water.
- Alternative systems may be permitted in situations when traditional leach fields are unable to function properly owing to poor soil conditions or a high water table.
- Near flood plains, bodies of water, and other ecologically sensitive places, special systems may also be necessary to protect people and property.
SEPTIC SYSTEM CAREMAINTENANCE REQUIRED
If you take good care of your system, you will be rewarded with years of trouble-free operation. Pumping the septic tank on a regular basis is necessary to remove the particles (sludge) and grease layer (scum) that have built up in the tank. The solids will ultimately overflow and spill into the leach field, decreasing its efficacy and diminishing its lifespan if this is not done. The rehabilitation of a clogged leach field is difficult, if not impossible; thus, constant pumping is essential!
Cooking fats, grease, and particles may also wash into the leach field if the tank is too small for the amount of water being used or if the tank is overcrowded on a regular basis.
Extra water from excessive residential consumption or yard drainage can overwhelm the system, transporting oil and particles into the leach field and causing it to overflow.
In addition, don’t try to complete a week’s worth of laundry for a family of five in a single day. This will assist you in keeping the load controlled and will also help to extend the life of your system. To minimize overburdening the system, the following measures should be taken:
- You will have years of trouble-free service if you take good care of your system. In order to remove the solids (sludge) and grease layer (scum) from the tank on a regular basis, it is necessary to pump the tank periodically. The solids will ultimately overflow and flow into the leach field, decreasing its efficacy and diminishing its lifespan if this is not prevented. The rehabilitation of a clogged leach field is difficult or impossible
- Thus, routine pumping is essential! The most common reason for septic systems to fail prematurely is a failure to pump empty the tank. Additionally, if the tank is too small for the amount of water being used or if it is overflowing on a regular basis, cooking fats, oil, and particles might wash into the leach field as well. Whenever fats, petroleum compounds, and solids make their way into the leach field, they can clog the biological mat that forms where the leach trenches meet the soil and prevent it from doing its duty of filtering the effluent effectively. Heavy domestic consumption or yard drainage can cause the system to become overloaded, resulting in the transport of oil and particles to the leach field. Drainage from the yard should be directed away from the leach field in order to avoid difficulties. In addition, don’t try to wash a week’s worth of laundry for a family of five in a single day. Keeping the load controlled will assist to extend the life of your system and keep it running at its peak performance. Preventing the system from becoming overloaded consists of the following steps.
In addition, refrain from flushing sediments, strong chemicals, and just about anything else down the toilet or sink other than biological waste and white toilet paper. Avoid using garbage disposals in the kitchen. If you really must have one, keep it for small non-meat bits only. Avoid flushing chemicals or paints down the toilet since many chemicals can destroy beneficial microorganisms or cause water contamination in the surrounding area. Avoid flushing the following down the toilet:
- Grease, fats, and animal scraps
- Paints, thinners, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals
- And a variety of other materials sanitary napkins, tampons, and other supplies Paper towels and disposable diapers are examples of such products. Egg shells, coffee grounds, and nut shells are all good options. Antibacterial soaps and antibiotics are available.
It is preferable to put grass over the leach field and to refrain from driving or parking in the vicinity. Excessive weight placed on top of the drain field might compress the earth, diminishing its efficiency as a drain field. Drain pipes can also become clogged by trees and plants with invasive roots. In order to prevent damage to the leach field, the following measures should be taken:
- Heavy machinery should not be driven, parked, or stored on top of the leach field (or septic tank). Placement of a deck, patio, pool, or any other sort of construction over the leach field is prohibited. Remove any large trees or other plants with deep roots from the leach field. Grass is the most effective groundcover.
Even with careful use and routine maintenance, however, leach fields are not guaranteed to survive indefinitely. It is inevitable that the soil will get saturated with dissolved elements from the wastewater, and that the soil will be unable to absorb any more incoming water. The presence of an odorous wet area over the leach field, as well as plumbing backups in the house, are frequently the first indicators that something is wrong. Many municipalities mandate septic system designs to incorporate a second “reserve drain field” in the case that the first field fails.
A well constructed and maintained system should last for at least 20 to 30 years, if not longer than that.
More information on Septic System Maintenance may be found here.
SEPTIC SYSTEM PERFORMANCE PROBLEMS
But even with careful use and routine maintenance, leach fields are not guaranteed to survive indefinitely. When the soil becomes clogged with dissolved components from the wastewater, it will be unable to absorb any more water from the incoming water supply. When anything is wrong, the first indicators that something is wrong are frequently an odorous wet area over the leach field or plumbing backups within the home. As a result of the presumption that the first field will ultimately fail, several jurisdictions mandate septic system designs to incorporate a second “reserve drain field.” A well constructed and maintained system should last for at least 20 to 30 years, if not much longer than that.
Septic System Maintenance is discussed in further detail here:
Septic Tank Systems
Septic tank systems are small-scale wastewater treatment systems that collect, treat, and dispose of wastewater. They are used to collect, treat, and dispose of wastewater. They are dependable, cost-effective, and efficient in their operation. Septic tank systems are utilized in areas where municipal sewers are not accessible or are prohibitive to install. They are also used in rural areas. Generally speaking, your septic tank system is made up of four parts: the septic tank, the effluent filter, the distribution box or Flow Divider (if applicable), and the effluent disposal field (also known as the drain field).
It is beneficial to have an effluent filter installed in your septic tank because it allows the partially digested solid solids to remain in the tank longer.
When you have wastewater in your distribution box, it is divided into equal halves and sent to a drain field for treatment.
Wastewater is channeled into level trenches that are lined with gravel and pipes. These ditches serve as a conduit for wastewater to seep into the surrounding soil. The soil purifies the wastewater, allowing it to be recycled back into the groundwater underneath it.
Where is Your Septic Tank?
In order to keep your system in good working condition, the tank must be accessible for pumping and the drain field must be well covered. The challenge of locating your system is not always straightforward. You should call your county health department to obtain a copy of your septic tank system permit, which will specify the approximate location of the system as well as the size and capacity of the tank. It is expected that the completed permit (also known as the Approval for Use) would include a schematic of the actual system installation as well as additional information regarding your system.
Septic Tank Maintenance offers advice on how to keep your septic tank system in good working order.
Signs of Septic System Failure
- Flooding is occurring in the home as a result of backed up water and sewage from toilets, drains, and sinks Bathtubs, showers, and sinks all drain at a snail’s pace
- The plumbing system is making gurgling sounds. The presence of standing water or moist patches near the septic tank or drainfield
- Noxious smells emanating from the septic tank or drainfield
- Even in the midst of a drought, bright green, spongy luxuriant grass should cover the septic tank or drainfield. Algal blooms in the vicinity of ponds or lakes In certain water wells, there are high quantities of nitrates or coliform bacteria.
Septic systems, like the majority of other components of your house, require regular maintenance. As long as it is properly maintained, the septic system should give years of dependable service. If the septic system is not properly maintained, owners face the risk of having a dangerous and expensive failure on their hands. Septic systems, on the other hand, have a limited operating lifespan and will ultimately need to be replaced. Septic systems that have failed or are not working properly pose a threat to human and animal health and can damage the environment.
It is possible that a prompt response will save the property owner money in repair costs, as well as disease and bad influence on the environment in the future.
What happens when a septic system fails?
When a septic system fails, untreated sewage is dumped into the environment and carried to places where it shouldn’t be. This may cause sewage to rise to the surface of the ground around the tank or drainfield, or it may cause sewage to back up in the pipes of the structure. It is also possible that sewage will make its way into groundwater, surface water, or marine water without our knowledge. Pathogens and other potentially harmful substances are carried by the sewage. People and animals can become ill as a result of exposure to certain diseases and pollutants.
What are some common reasons a septic system doesn’t work properly?
The pipe between the home to the tank is obstructed. When this occurs, drains drain very slowly (perhaps much more slowly on lower floors of the structure) or cease draining entirely, depending on the situation. This is frequently a straightforward issue to resolve. The majority of the time, a service provider can “snake the line” and unclog the problem. Keeping your drains clear by flushing only human waste and toilet paper down the drain and having your system examined on an annual basis will help prevent clogs.
- Plant roots might occasionally obstruct the pipe (particularly on older systems).
- The inlet baffle to the tank is obstructed.
- In case you have access to your intake baffle aperture, you may see if there is a blockage by inspecting it.
- It is essential that you avoid damaging any of the septic system’s components.
- Avoid clogging your inlet baffle by just flushing human waste and toilet paper, and get your system examined once a year to ensure that it is in good working order.
- This may result in sewage backing up into the residence or surfacing near the septic tank as a result of the situation.
- If there is an effluent filter, it has to be cleaned or changed as necessary.
Preventing this sort of problem from occurring is as simple as cleaning your effluent filter (if you have one) and getting your system examined once per year.
It is possible for sewage to back up into the residence when the drainfield collapses or becomes saturated with water.
Additionally, smells may be present around the tank or drainfield.
It is possible that the system was run incorrectly, resulting in an excessive amount of solid material making its way to the drainfield and causing it to fail prematurely.
While it is conceivable that a drainfield will get saturated due to excessive quantities of water (either from enormous volumes of water flowing down the drain or flooding the drainfield), it is not always viable to dry out and restore a drainfield.
A connection to the public sewer system should be explored if the drainfield has failed and it is possible to make the connection.
It will be necessary to replace the existing drainfield if this does not take place. It is possible for a septic system to fail or malfunction for various reasons. Septic professionals should be contacted if your system isn’t functioning correctly.
How can I prevent a failure?
The proper operation of your septic system, together with routine maintenance, can help it last a long and trouble-free life. Assuming that your septic system has been correctly planned, located, and installed, the rest is up to you to take care of. Inspect your system once a year and pump as necessary (usually every 3-5 years). Avoid overusing water, and be mindful of what you flush down the toilet and what you flush down the drain. Learn more about how to properly maintain your septic system.
Can my failing septic system contaminate the water?
Yes, a failed septic system has the potential to pollute well water as well as adjacent water sources. Untreated wastewater is a health problem that has the potential to cause a variety of human ailments. Once this untreated wastewater enters the groundwater, it has the potential to poison your well and the wells of your neighbors. It is possible that oyster beds and recreational swimming sites will be affected if the sewage reaches local streams or water bodies.
Is there financial help for failing systems or repairs?
Yes, there are instances where this is true. Here are a few such alternatives.
- In addition, Craft3 is a local nonprofit financial organization that provides loans in many counties. Municipal Health Departments- Some local health departments provide low-interest loan and grant programs to qualified applicants. A federal home repair program for people who qualify is offered by the USDA.
More Resources
- Septic System 101: The Fundamentals of Septic Systems
- Taking Good Care of Your Septic System
- A video on how to inspect your septic system yourself
- Using the Services of a Septic System Professional
- Safety of the Septic Tank Lid
