How Do I Find Out How Old My Septic Tank Is?

How to find a septic tank near your house?

• As you follow the pipes leaving your house, you can use a thin probe which is also known as a soil probe. You can keep probing every two feet in search of the septic tank. Usually, the septic tanks are constructed between 10 to 25 feet from your house. The tank will not be located very close to your property.

How do I tell how old my septic tank is?

If you cannot find the septic system and know nothing about it or its history, start by checking the age of the building and its plumbing system with the premise that for most sites the septic tank and fields won’t be older than those.

Are septic tank locations public record?

Contact your local health department for public records. These permits should come with a diagram of the location where the septic system is buried. Depending on the age of your septic system, you may be able to find information regarding the location of your septic system by making a public records request.

How do I find out if my septic tank is registered?

Check if your septic tank is already registered You can check if your tank has already been registered by contacting your environmental regulator. If you are unsure then it is best to check and avoid making an unnecessary payment. The NIEA and SEPA have records of all registered septic tanks.

How long does a septic tank usually last?

Because it is expensive to replace a septic system, proper maintenance is important. The more proactive you are in maintaining your system, the longer it will last. In fact, septic tanks can last as long as 30 years or more.

Do old septic tanks need to be registered?

Many homes are not connected to mains drainage, instead having sewage treatment systems or septic tanks or occasionally cesspools. If your sewage treatment system or septic tank discharges to a river or stream it must be registered immediately.

How long can a septic tank go without being pumped?

You can wait up to 10 years to drain your tank provided that you live alone and do not use the septic system often. You may feel like you can pump your septic tank waste less frequently to save money, but it’ll be difficult for you to know if the tank is working properly.

How do you find a metal detector with a septic tank?

6 Steps to Locate a Septic Tank

1. Find Your Main Sewer Drain Line. Sewage from your toilets, sinks, and showers collects into a main drain line.
2. Check Permits and Public Records.
3. Determine Septic Tank Material.
4. Time to Dig.
5. Mark the Location for Future Maintenance.

Do I have to change my septic tank?

Under the new rules, if you have a specific septic tank that discharges to surface water (river, stream, ditch, etc.) you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

How do I find my septic lateral lines?

Call your local electric utility provider or gas company to locate buried gas or utility lines before digging. A septic tank probe can also help you find the location. Stick the long, thin metal probe into the ground until you feel it hit the tank and feel the edges of the tank.

What are the new rules on septic tanks?

According to new regulations passed in 2015, if your septic tank discharges to surface water such as a ditch, stream, canal or river, you will have to upgrade your system to a sewage treatment plant or install a soakaway system by 1 January 2020.

Can you sell a property with a septic tank?

If you’re selling a property with a septic tank, then you must be transparent with buyers about the fact the property uses a one and provide a detailed specification of the system. In fact, You are required by law to inform a buyer in writing about the presence of a septic tank. The age of the system.

How far does a septic tank have to be from a house UK?

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.

Can a septic tank never be pumped?

What Are the Consequences of Not Pumping Your Tank? If the tank is not pumped, the solids will build up in the tank and the holding capacity of the tank will be diminished. Eventually, the solids will reach the pipe that feeds into the drain field, causing a clog. Waste water backing up into the house.

What is the most common cause of septic system failure?

Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.

What will ruin a septic system?

Any paper products like tissues, paper towels, tampons, or sanitary products, even some heavier toilet paper, will clog your system if you flush enough of it. Wet wipes are another product that you should never flush into a septic system.

Septic System Age How Old is the Septic Tank, Septic Fields, Septic Piping?

• ASK a question or make a comment regarding the normal life expectancy of septic system components in the comments section.

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. Determining the age of a septic system This article series discusses the normal life expectancy of septic systems as well as the various components that make up a septic system. For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page. Use the SEARCH BOX to discover the information you’re looking for quickly.

Septic System Age Determination

2018/05/25 Marie-Josée Raymond expressed herself as follows: Occupation of a residence at 3397 Kentucky Lane in Navan, Ontario. I’d want to know how old my septic tank and field are, please. This Q & A about the age of a septic system was first posted at The following is an index of SEPTIC SYSTEMS articles.

Reply:

Marie, Thank you for your outstanding question: how can I establish the age of my septic system, tank, and drainfields? I appreciate your help. While on the job, your septic contractor can examine the following components of your septic system: the septic tank access port, cleanout cover, tank material, pipe material (PVC, cast iron, terra cotta, ORANGEBURG PIPE), and the septic tank itself. septic tanks and lines In addition to the kind of plumbing, the materials used in septic tanks (steel, concrete, plastic, fiberglass, and home-made) provide date information.

• Leaning over (methane asphyxiation) or falling into a septic system both carry the danger of death.
• The life expectancy of a septic tank is mostly determined by the materials used in its construction, but the life expectancy of septic system pipe is largely determined by the likelihood of damage by vehicle traffic, root blockage, or flooding by groundwater.
• If you can’t identify the septic system and don’t know anything about it or its history, the first step is to determine the age of the building and its plumbing system, with the assumption that the septic tank and fields are not much older than the structure and plumbing system.
• If so, look atPLUMBING MATERIALSFIXTURE AGE.
• ORANGEBURG PIPE was originally utilized in Boston in 1865, although it was not employed in septic drain fields until the late 1940s and early 1960s, according to historical records.
• Check with your local building or health department to see whether any plans for your septic system have been submitted in the past, and if so, when.
• It is possible that the septic system drawings submitted as part of a permit procedure will not correctly depict the septic system that was ultimately completed, but you will be within the correct time frame.
• Website: (in French).
• Check see theSEPTIC TANK INSPECTION PROCEDUREAtCESSPOOL AGING ESTIMATES for more information on how to check a septic tank, including the tank’s location, size, type, materials, and overall condition.

I have not attempted to replicate the results for typical septic systems, which employ a septic tank and a drainage field. More information about septic system age may be found in these two articles. THE EXPECTANCY OF SEPTIC LIFE THE EXPECTANCY OF SEPTIC DRAINFIELD LIFE

Reader CommentsQ A

These nevertheless are made of something like clay and range in size from 12 to 18 inches in section. At the construction phase, they do not like to fit inside of one another; instead they butch up to one another and are covered with tar paper merely at the seams, which is why they are called “tar paper.” @Michelle, The Orangeburg pipe, which was a black perforated pipe that was utilized in septic drain fields, was what I believe you were referring to. Please refer to the app description for further information.

• I’m curious as to what type of drain field makes use of 12 to 18 inch sections of pipe that are kept together with tar paper.
• As an aside, I would want to point out that the size of the septic tank is inadequate by today’s standards, and the Orangeburg pipe that you describe is undoubtedly something that you would presume is no longer in working order.
• Our house was once a cottage that was only sometimes utilized.
• The piping that I can see is Orangeburg, and there is no distribution box; instead, there is a T approximately 6 feet away from the tank.
• It just had two lines, in my opinion, because it was a modest home.
• Given the age and character of the property, what are your thoughts?
• For example, unlike some other items, septic tanks are not often date stamped, and they do not have a product ID code or data tag attached to them.

For example, you could come across plans for the installation of a septic system that have been filed.

What is the best way to determine the age of my septic tank?

If you fall in, you might suffer serious injuries or perhaps death.

The cover for a steel septic tank is generally readily pulled off by excavating slightly past the perimeter of the tank lid when it is in this location.

It is possible that it will need to be emptied and replaced.

As well as this, see WHERE CAN I FIND A SEPTIC TANK?

So far, this is what I’ve discovered.

Is this an entry point for the pump out system?

Is it necessary to add another access point?

There are two bedrooms and a bathroom in this tiny home.

Way You may try posting a photo of the Stone album cover that you were discussing using the head image button and I might be able to offer a more useful response.

It is made of stone with four holes in the centre, and it is entirely by hand.

wayne Lisa See the information provided atSEPTIC OR SEWER CONECTION.

I’d want to know when a house’s septic system and well water were installed.

According to Mark Cramer, a Tampa-based specialist, it all depends.

Best case scenario: fecal waste can be stored for decades in a sewage pit, seepage pit, cesspit, or outhouse due to the fact that it is extremely concentrated in one location with little to no oxygen, bacteria, or dilution.

In order to get more information, go to our article on SEPTIC CLEARANCE DISTANCES in theARTICLE INDEX.

Alternatively, it is likely that gravity was used to direct water to the d-box at the specified depth.

Hi: I recently discovered that the distribution box for my septic system is 6 feet below the surface of the ground.

Does this imply that the drain field is also far deeper under the surface than it would be otherwise?

Do you have any clue why the D-box and drain are buried so deep beneath the surface?

Please accept my thanks for your enlightening response; have a wonderful day.

In my opinion, you are possibly not paying attention to the essence of the matter, which is that any system that is that old would be deemed to be at or near the end of its anticipated life in any event, regardless of its age.

When it comes to buried components, I would anticipate your counsel to state that as long as the nature of what’s there is disclosed, you are not making any representations regarding their future utility.

Even if those do not reveal an immediate problem, if a system is tiny and old, and I were advising a buyer, I would advise them to budget for the possibility of having to replace the system in the future.

Very often, you’ll discover that what you’re concerned about is not what your consumer is concerned about at all.

My main worry is that I want to keep the number of residents as low as possible to avoid the septic tank overflowing during the sale of my property with owner financing.

For clarification, I contacted the local health department to see whether I could limit the number of individuals to three, and the response I received was as follows: Septic systems have traditionally been designed to accommodate two persons per bedroom.

What I’m wondering is, do you happen to know what the average size of a septic tank was in 1940?

Thank you so much for your assistance.

Is it possible for water from a strong rain or rising lake water to seep into a storage tank? How well are they protected from groundwater intrusion from the outside?

Question:septic system installation in Newfoundland, Canada lasted 60 years

(15th of May, 2014) Art Mercer recalled his involvement in the construction of a concrete septic tank for his family’s home in Newfoundland, Canada, in 1958 when he was 14 years old. With the help of 8″ pieces of aluminum piping, we dug a septic field behind the house (on rural property). This septic system has been in continuous service since that time (for more than 60 years), and it has never been closed or opened. It will be switched to the local town septic system later this week, by my brother (who was not even born at the time of the conversion).

Reply:

Thank you for informing me about your achievement, Art. In fact, there are several historic septic system drainfields that are still in use today. On a regular basis, I observe that soil qualities are critical to the efficient disposal of wastewater. As an example, in 1998, I dug a septic system that had been installed in 1920 but was still “working,” sustaining the residence of a single elderly inhabitant who had noticed odors surrounding the septic tank and reported them to me. We discovered that there was no drainfield or even a seepage hole where we were looking.

The effluent was disposed away, despite the fact that it had received very rudimentary treatment.

Question: 36 year old septic systems: contractor wants too much to do a repair

22nd of October, 2014) Sherry Lewis shared her experience, saying, “My septic system is 36 years old.” It is made of concrete (if the stand pipes are made of concrete, I assume the tank is as well), it has two tanks (the second is said to be an overflow tank), the soil in my area is mostly sandy (due to the proximity to the ocean), and I have lived in my house for approximately 30 years as the only occupant.

1. In addition, I only use the garbage disposal for the tiniest pieces of food that manage to find their way into it, and I don’t put anything else into the system other than water, soap, the tiniest amount of garbage trash, and toilet waste.
2. In the past, I phoned them because air was gushing out of my downstairs toilet and a buddy said that this meant danger as well as a full tank of gas.
3. The pumper man stated that, partly because of the system’s age, it was probably time to replace it, either completely or at the very least the leach field.
4. 2) When I spoke with a contractor about the task, he informed me that a lift station would be required owing to the high level of ground water (8′).
5. He recommended the lift station without visiting my home to measure the depth of my present sewage pipe, and I intend to contact him to confirm this rather than assume that they will not accommodate a standard system like the one I already have.
6. In the end, the gentleman who came to dig the test hole in order to determine the water level estimated an approximate cost of $7,000 or slightly more if I declared 4 instead of 3 bedrooms.

Because of the lift station, the contractor that will perform the replacement work has quoted a price that is nearly twice as much as the original estimate! That appears to be absurdly expensive! Please, someone assist me! Thank you so much for your assistance.

Reply:

(February 13th, 2015) The following is what Harry Ford said: You should definitely urge the new house owner to get the home’s septic system assessed before purchasing it.

Reply:

We wholeheartedly agree with Harry. See The Home Buyer’s Guide to Sewer and Drainage Systems Additionally, we provide septic system guidance to clients who are selling their house. SEPTIC TESTS FOR HOME SELLER’S GUIDELINES

Question: remove a tree from the septic tank?

We wholeheartedly agree with you, Mr. Potter. See HOW TO INSTALL SEPTIC SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME also provide septic system assistance to those who are selling their house SEPTIC TESTS FOR HOME SELLER’S GUIDE

Reply:

Yes An in-depth guide may be found at PLANTSTREES OVER SEPTIC SYSTEMS. Continue reading atSEPTIC LIFE EXPECTANCY, or choose a topic from the closely-related articles listed below, or see the completeARTICLE INDEX for a comprehensive list of articles. Alternatively, consider the following:

Details about the life expectancy of a septic system

• CESSPOOL AGE ESTIMATES
• SEPTIC LIFE EXPECTANCY
• SEPTIC DRAINFIELD LIFE
• SEPTIC LIFE MAXIMIZING STEPS
• SEPTIC FIELD FAILURE CAUSES
• SEPTIC SYSTEM AGE
• SEPTIC TANK, HOW TO FIND
• SEPTIC TANK,

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INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES:ARTICLE INDEX to SEPTIC SYSTEMS

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Your Septic System

HOME INSPECTIONS WITH A COMPLETE SERVICE www.prospecinspections.com845-386-8770 THE SEPTIC SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME Important Information to Keep in Mind When Purchasing or Selling a Home

Function of System

Because there are no moving components in the septic system, it is easy to overlook that it is a very important component of the home. Water from your house is accepted and treated by your septic system in order to avoid biological and/or nutrient contaminants from damaging your well and adjacent lakes and streams. An effective septic system has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years when maintained correctly.

Age of system

The age of the house may provide information about the condition and kind of septic system installed. The original waste disposal system may still be in operation in houses built within the previous 30 years. It is possible that the original system was replaced in older homes. Simply because your system is more than ten years old does not imply that you will need to replace it anytime soon. If the tank is pumped on a regular basis and the drain field is properly maintained, the septic system can last for many years.

Another method of determining the age of a septic system is to look at a copy of the Construction Permit and the Certificate of Occupancy, both of which are available online.

These papers should be kept on file with the Health Department and copies can be acquired if they are misplaced or lost in the process.

When a significant discrepancy is discovered, it is possible that an insufficient replacement system was built without first obtaining a permission.

Size of the system

Septic system condition and type may be determined by the age of the house. The original waste disposal system may still be in operation in homes built within the previous 30 years. It’s possible that the original system was replaced in older homes, although this is not always the case. Because your system is more than ten years old, it is not necessary to replace it immediately. With regular pumping and adequate treatment of the drain field, a septic system may last for many years with little maintenance.

The construction permit and certificate of occupancy are two more ways to establish the age of a septic system.

In addition, they will provide information on when the system was implemented.

Verify that the system’s position on the Construction Permit corresponds to the location shown in the drawing on the Construction Permit.

If these forms are not available from the Health Department, the system may be too old and in need of replacement; it may not exist at all – wastes from the home may simply be discharged into a dry well or cesspool, a roadside ditch, a lake, or a stream; or it may have been installed without the health department’s knowledge or permission.

Evaluating the system

Once the property has been listed for sale, a well and septic system inspection should be performed as soon as possible to allow for any necessary repairs to be completed. Before the transaction can be completed, it is absolutely necessary to do an evaluation. To begin, an examination should look at the following factors: location, age, size, and original design of both the drinking water and septic systems. The material of the septic tank, which might be concrete, plastic, or steel. The correctness and availability of the Construction Permit as well as the Certificate of Occupancy are important considerations.

1. The condition of the plumbing fixtures as well as the placement of the fixtures.
2. It is also necessary to identify any system components that might have an impact on the system, such as water softeners that drain to the septic tank or the existence of footing drains.
3. If the septic tank has not been pumped lately, the level of sludge (solid material) in the tank and the condition of the baffles should be checked.
4. This is due to a potential presence of biological pollutants in the well water In order to properly evaluate the water quality of the well and the septic system, the examination should be carried out by a professional engineer or building inspector with substantial experience.

The cost of this service will be charged, but it will be worth it if it prevents the need for a lawsuit or prevents the sale from falling through at the last minute.

Special Notes

The fact that the house is unoccupied at the time of the inspection does not rule out the possibility of septic system defects or problems being missed by a professional inspector. As a result, the buyer must ensure that the assessment was performed when the system had been in regular operation for the preceding 30 to 60 days before purchasing. If the house is unoccupied or the seller’s family was tiny, the buyer may choose to negotiate that final acceptance of the house be conditional on the new family’s normal usage of the house for 30 to 60 days before final acceptance is granted.

How To Find My Septic Tank

1. The fact that the house is unoccupied at the time of the inspection does not rule out the possibility of septic system defects or problems being missed by a professional evaluation. For this reason, the buyer must ensure that the assessment was performed when the system has been in regular operation over a period of 30 to 60 days. If the house is unoccupied or the seller’s family was tiny, the buyer may choose to negotiate that final acceptance of the house be conditional on the new family’s typical usage of the house for 30 to 60 days before final acceptance is given. Aside from that, inspections performed during the winter when there is snow on the ground or a layer of ice on the soil above the absorption field might result in significant mistakes.

You may have fallen in love with your new house because of its appealing good looks and characteristics, but there is almost certainly more to your new home than meets the eye. In many cases, the characteristics that make your house run more effectively and allow you to live a pleasant, contemporary life are not readily apparent. Septic tanks, for example, are an important part of your home’s infrastructure. A septic system is responsible for regulating and managing the wastewater generated by your home.

1. “How can I locate my septic tank?” is one of the most often requested inquiries we receive.
2. When your tank’s lid is difficult to locate – especially if you are not the original homeowner – you may be at a loss for what to do or where to look for the lid when you need it.
3. The majority of the time, all of the components of the septic tank are buried between four inches and four feet below ground level.
4. In order to do so, it is necessary to first comprehend the functions of septic tanks and septic systems and why it is important to know where yours is located.

How to Locate Your Septic Tank

Your septic tank’s location is not a closely guarded secret. There will be a method for you to locate it and make a note of its position for future reference, and below are a few examples of such methods.

What Is a Septic Tank?

Having a functioning septic tank is an important aspect of having an effective septic system. In the United States, around 20% of households utilize a septic system to handle their wastewater. Houses in rural parts of New England are the most likely to have a septic system, with residences in the Eastern United States being the most prevalent location for septic systems. When there are few and far between residences, it is typically more efficient and cost-effective to employ a septic system to manage wastewater rather than relying on a public sewage system to handle waste water.

Typically, a septic tank is a container that is waterproof and composed of a material such as concrete, polyethylene, fiberglass, or a combination of these.

An important function of a septic tank is to hold on to wastewater until any particulates in the water separate themselves from the water.

Any liquid that remains in the tank eventually drains into a leach field or a drainfield, where it is known as “effluent.” The dirt in the leach field aids in the filtering of the water and the removal of bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants that may be present in it.

Septic tanks erected in Onondaga County must contain input and outlet baffles, as well as an effluent filter or sanitary tees, in order to effectively separate particles from liquids during the treatment process.

How Do I Know If I Have a Septic Tank?

What is the best way to tell if your home has a septic tank? There are generally a few of different methods to tell. Examining your water bill might help you identify whether or not your house is served by a septic system or is part of the public sewage system in your neighborhood. If you have a septic system for wastewater management, you are likely to receive a charge from the utility provider for wastewater or sewer services of zero dollars. In the case of those who are fortunate enough to have a septic system, it is likely that they may not receive any water bills at all.

1. A lack of a meter on the water line that enters your property is typically indicative of the fact that you are utilizing well water rather than public utility water, according to the National Association of Realtors.
2. A septic system is likely to be installed in your home if you reside in a rather rural location.
3. Septic systems are likely to be installed in all of these buildings, which means your home is likely to be as well.
4. When a septic tank is present, it is common to find a mound or tiny hill on the property that is not a natural structure.
5. Checking your property records is a foolproof method of determining whether or not your home is equipped with a septic system.

Why It’s Important to Know the Location of Your Septic Tank

You might wonder why you should bother trying to discover out where your septic tank is. There are several important reasons for this:

1. To Be Able to Care for It Properly

The first reason you should try to locate your septic tank is that knowing where it is will help you to properly repair and care for it in the future. The standard guideline is to avoid erecting structures or placing heavy objects on top of the septic tank. It’s possible that you don’t want to park your car or truck on top of it, and you don’t want visitors to your house to park their cars on top of it, either. Due to the weight of the automobiles, there is a possibility that the tank would collapse due to excessive pressure.

2. If You Want to Landscape or Remodel Your Property

If you want to build an addition to your home or perform some landscaping around your property, you will need to know where your septic tank is located. Nothing with deep or lengthy roots should be planted on top of or in the area of your tank, since this can cause problems. If roots are allowed to grow into the pipes of your septic system, it is conceivable that your system will get clogged. When you know where the tank is going to be, you may arrange your landscaping such that only shallow-rooted plants, such as grass, are in close proximity to the tank.

For starters, the tank’s weight might lead it to collapse due to the weight of the construction. A second issue is that getting access to the tank becomes more difficult if a permanent building has been constructed on top of it.

3. If a Problem With Your Tank Occurs

Knowing where your tank is buried might also assist you in identifying problems as soon as they arise. Consider the following scenario: you wake up one morning and see that there is flooding or ponding water in the region surrounding your septic tank – a sign that your system is overwhelmed and that an excessive amount of water is being utilized all at once.

4. Ease of Getting It Fixed

Once you have determined the location of your sewer system, you can quickly send a plumber to it in the event that something goes wrong with the system, saving everyone both time and money. Get in Touch With A Plumber Right Away

1. Use a Septic Tank Map

First and foremost, make use of a road map. Using a map is frequently the quickest and most convenient alternative. Most counties keep records of the installation of septic tanks at all of their residents’ residences. These maps should include schematics that illustrate the specific placement of the tank on the land, as well as measurements that allow you to measure and locate the tank’s exact location on the property. Never mind that landmarks may shift over time depending on when the tank was built, so if there are a few more shrubs or a tree nearby, don’t rule out that location as a possibility.

• If you are unable to locate a map or other paperwork that identifies the location of your septic tank, there are a few locations to try to see if you can obtain a map of the area.
• The county health department is responsible for keeping track of septic systems.
• A septic tank’s position could be depicted on a survey map, for example.
• The creation of your own map and documentation may be worthwhile if you cannot locate a map or blueprint of your property and nothing appears to be on file regarding it at the county health department or another municipal agency.

2. Follow the Pipes to Find Your Septic Tank

Whether or not there is an existing map of your septic tank on file, or whether or not you choose to develop one for future reference or for future homeowners, you will still need to track down and find the tank. One method of accomplishing this is to follow the sewer lines that lead away from your residence. The septic tank is situated along the sewage line that goes from your home and into the yard, as we’re sure you’re aware. Find a four-inch sewer pipe in your basement or crawl space. This is the line that will lead to your septic system and should be accessible from the ground level.

1. In general, though, you’re searching for a pipe with a diameter of four inches or more that leaves your home via a basement wall or ceiling.
2. By inserting a thin metal probe (also known as a soil probe) into the earth near the sewage line, you can track the pipe’s location.
3. The majority of septic tanks are located between 10 and 25 feet away from your home, and they cannot be any closer than five feet.
4. Going via the sewage line itself is another method of locating the septic tank utilizing it.
5. Drain snakes are typically used to unclog clogs in toilets and drains, and they may be used to do the same thing.
6. When the snake comes to a complete halt, it has almost certainly reached the tank.
7. While drawing the snake back, make a note of how far it has been extended and whether it has made any bends or turns.
8. When looking for your septic tank, you may use a transmitter that you flush down the toilet and it will direct you straight to the tank.

If you only want to keep an eye on the condition of your tank and don’t need to dig it up and inspect it, you may thread a pipe camera into the sewer pipe to see what’s happening.

3. Inspect Your Yard

Septic tanks are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible when they are erected. With the passage of time, and the growth of the grass, it might be difficult to discern the visual indications that indicated the exact location of your septic tank’s installation. However, this does not rule out the possibility of finding evidence that will take you to the location of your septic tank in the future. First and foremost, you want to rule out any potential locations for your septic tank, such as:

• Under a road or similar paved surface, for example. Right up against the house (the tank must be at least five feet away)
• Directly in front of the home Immediately adjacent to your well (if you have one)
• In close proximity to trees or densely planted regions
• In the shadow of a patio, deck, or other building

Once you’ve ruled out any potential locations for your tank, it’s time to start hunting for indications as to where it may be hiding in plain sight. Keep your eyes peeled as you go about your property, looking for any inexplicable high or low points that might suggest the presence of an underground tank. When looking at your property, you could see a hill or mound on the ground, which is frequently an indication that there is a septic tank nearby. One further item to consider while searching for the right septic tank for your home is the amount of grass or other foliage in your yard.

Alternatively, if the tank was not adequately buried, you may observe a “bald patch,” which is an area where the grass is struggling to grow in the vicinity.

4. Talk to Your Neighbors

If your neighbors have septic systems as well, they may be able to assist you in locating your tank. Inquire of your neighbors about the location of their septic tanks in relation to their residences. Having a polite conversation with your neighbors regarding septic systems not only provides you with a means to figure out where yours is, but it may also serve as a friendly introduction to the other residents of your community.

5. Look for Your Septic Tank Lid

It is only the first step in the process to discover where your septic tank is located. After you’ve located your tank, the following step is to locate the lid. You can locate it with the help of your soil probe. The majority of septic tanks are rectangular in shape and measure around five feet by eight feet. The perimeter of the tank should be marked with a probe once it has been probed around. A shallow excavation with a shovel within the tank’s perimeter and near the center (or broken into halves for a two compartment tank) should show the position of the lid or lids if you are unable to feel them by probing.

The tank itself is likely to be filled with foul-smelling vapors, if not potentially hazardous ones.

What to Do After You Find Your Septic Tank

Once you’ve determined where your tank is, it’s time to bring in the specialists. Trust us when we say that opening a septic tank is not something that just anybody wants to undertake. Concrete septic tank lids are extremely heavy and must be lifted using special lifting gear in order to be removed. Since the vapors are potentially dangerous due to the contents of the tank, please respect our advice and refrain from attempting to open the tank yourself. An exposed septic tank can be hazardous to anybody wandering around your property’s perimeter, and if someone were to fall into it, it might be lethal owing to the toxicity of the sewage in the tank.

However, before you send in a team of experienced plumbers, there are a few things you can do to ensure that others do not experience the same difficulty locating the tank and to make locating the tank in the future easier.

1. Mark Its Location

The likelihood is that you will not want to post a large sign in your yard that reads “Septic Tank Here!” but you will want to leave some sort of marking so that you can quickly locate the tank and lid when you need them. In an ideal situation, the marker will be substantial enough that it will not blow away in the wind and will not be readily moved by children who are playing in the yard. A patio paver, a potted plant, or a decorative gnome or rock are just a few of the possibilities. In addition to putting a physical sign beside the septic tank, you may draw a map or layout of the area around it to illustrate its position.

2. Take Care of Your Septic Tank

Taking proper care of your tank may save you hundreds of dollars over the course of its lifetime. The expense of maintaining your system could be a few hundred dollars every few years, but that’s a lot less than the thousands of dollars it might cost to repair or replace a damaged tank or a malfunctioning septic system. Two strategies to take better care of your septic tank and system are to avoid utilizing your drain pipes or toilets as garbage cans and to use less water overall. Things like paper towels, face wipes, and cat litter should not be flushed down the toilet since they are not designed to be flushed.

In addition, installing low-flow faucets and high-efficiency toilets can help you reduce the amount of water used in your home.

For example, you don’t want to be washing load after load of laundry or running your clothes washer at the same time as your dishwasher all at the same time.

Call a Professional Plumber

Maintenance of a septic system is not normally considered a do-it-yourself activity. In the Greater Syracuse region, whether your septic tank requires pumping out or cleaning, or if you want to replace your tank, you should use the services of a reputable plumbing firm to do the job right. If you’ve attempted to locate your septic tank on your own and are still unsure of its position, it may be necessary to enlist the assistance of a professional local plumber. Our team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Syracuse can assist you with locating, maintaining, or replacing your home’s sewage tank.

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5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Septic System — BL3 Plumbing & Drain Cleaning

Nobody wants sewage backing up into their yard, and there are a number of things you can do to keep your septic system from malfunctioning in the first place. But there are times when it is necessary to throw up the towel on an old system and make the investment in a new one. Because it is a costly option, you will want to be certain that it is absolutely essential.

In an ideal world, efficient maintenance would preclude the need for replacement for decades, if not generations. However, years of poor maintenance may lead to the conclusion that a replacement is the best solution. Here are five indicators that you may be in the market for a replacement.

1. Age of the System

If you buy a new house, it’s possible that your septic system may endure for 40 years or longer, meaning you won’t have to replace it for a lengthy period of time. You may, on the other hand, have an older home with a septic system that has been in place for more than half a century. If you begin to notice difficulties with the system, and if you find yourself pumping it more regularly in order to maintain it operating correctly, it may be time to start planning for a new septic system installation.

2. You’ve Outgrown the System

Septic systems are designed to have a limited carrying capacity. In most cases, the size of a house is determined by the number of rooms and square footage it has. However, if you’ve increased the size of your home or your water usage, you may find that you’ve outgrown the capacity of your septic tank. If your tank is inadequate for your needs, it may be necessary to improve the system in order to better serve your family and your way of life.

3. Slow Drains

Having a septic problem might be indicated by the fact that your sinks or bathtub take an unusually lengthy time to empty. Because this is a tiny sign, it is possible that you are only suffering from a blockage. If, on the other hand, all of your sinks are draining slowly, it is possible that you have a more major problem. Due to sludge accumulation at the bottom of the septic tank, it is possible that the water is going more slowly through the septic tank.

4. Standing Water in the Yard

Any standing water in your yard due to a clogged septic system is a bad omen. However, it is possible that you are only in need of a repair and not a complete replacement. It’s possible that there is a problem with your drain field. It is critical that you do not disregard standing water since the problem will not go away; rather, it will only worsen. It’s possible that your septic tank isn’t the source of your difficulties. Standing water can be caused by a clogged drain field in some cases.

It is desirable to have grass and plants growing over your drain field because organisms aid in the breakdown of the liquid and prevent it from accumulating.

Aeration through mechanical means is the second option.

It is possible to repair the drain field without having to replace the septic tank in some situations.

5. Nearby Contaminated Water Sources

If nitrate, nitrite, or coliform bacteria are detected in neighboring water sources, this is a strong indication that there is a problem with your septic system.

If you notice contamination in water sources, it is critical that you analyze the situation as soon as possible.

Other Septic Systems Issues

The replacement of the septic tank is the most extreme circumstance. A number of these indicators might be symptomatic of simpler problems that only require little correction. If you have obstructions in your septic tank, you may need to have it pumped or have the system cleaned. If you’re concerned about a septic tank problem, the best course of action is to contact a professional for assistance. At BL3, we provide a wide range of sewage line-related services. In order to speak with a plumber, please call (405) 895-6640 in North OKC or (405) 237-1414 in South OKC.

How Do I Find My Septic Tank

What is the location of my septic tank? Natalie Cooper is a model and actress who has appeared in a number of films and television shows. 2019-10-24T 02:52:07+10:00

How Do I Find My Septic Tank

Whether or not my property has a septic tank is up in the air. If you live on an acreage or in a rural region, it is highly probable that you have a septic tank or a waste water treatment system in your home. What Is the Appearance of a Septic Tank? The great majority of septic tanks are 1600L concrete tanks, which are common in the industry. They feature a spherical concrete top with a huge lid in the center and two little lids on the sides. They are made out of concrete. Although the lids of these tanks may have been removed or modified on occasion, this is a rare occurrence.

A tiny proportion of septic tanks have a capacity of 3000L or more.

Our expert lifts the hefty lid of a 3000L septic tank and inspects the contents.

If you have discovered a tank or tanks that do not appear to be part of a waste water treatment plant system, it is possible that you have discovered a septic tank system.

How Can I Find My Septic Tank?

According to standard guidelines, the septic tank should be positioned close to the home, preferably on the same side of the house as the toilet. It can be found on the grass or within a garden bed, depending on its location. Going outdoors to the same side of the home as the toilet and performing a visual check of the septic tank is a smart first step to taking in order to discover where your septic tank is. The location of the toilets from outside can be determined if you are unfamiliar with the location of the toilets (for example, if you are looking to purchase a property).

Unfortunately, the position of septic tanks can vary widely and is not always easily discernible from the surrounding landscape.

In cases where the septic tank is no longer visible, it is likely that it has become overgrown with grass, has been buried in a garden or has had a garden built over it, that an outdoor area has been added and the septic tank has been paved over, or that a deck has been constructed on top of the tank.

• They should indicate the position of your septic tank, as well as the location of your grease trap and greywater tank, if any.
• Alternatively, if we have previously serviced the property for a different owner, our helpful office staff can examine our records to see if there are any notes pertaining to the site.
• A specific gadget is used to locate the location of the septic tank, and our professional will mark the location of the tank so that it may be exposed and cleaned out.
• Using an electronic service locator, you may locate a septic tank.
• In the event that you’re not experiencing any problems, the toilets are flushing normally, and there are no foul odors, you may ponder whether it’s best to leave things alone rather than attempting to locate and unburden a hidden septic tank.
• Although you could wait until there is a problem, this would almost certainly result in a significant amount of additional charges.
• Does it make sense for me to have many toilets and also multiple septic tanks?

It is decided by the number of bedrooms, which in turn determines the number of people who are anticipated to reside in the house, that the size of the septic tank should be. The following is the relationship between septic tank volumes and the number of bedrooms:

• There are three sizes of sewer tanks available: 3000L for three bedrooms, 3500L for four bedrooms, and 4000L for five bedrooms.

The most typical septic tank size is 1600L, although there are also some 3000L septic tanks available on the market. It is possible to have septic tanks with capacities as large as 3500L or 4000L, although they are not as popular, and most residences that require these capacities have numerous septic tanks in order to meet the septic litre requirements for each bedroom. Using the septic tank lid as a test, you may quickly determine whether all of the toilets in your home are linked to the same septic tank.

Check the rest of the toilets in the home by repeating the procedure.

Please call us immediately to have your septic tank pumped out or to schedule a free septic tank test when we are next in your area.

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Septic System Frequently Asked Questions

A septic system, sometimes known as a septic tank, is an underground system that processes the sewage that flows from your house before disposing of the treated, cleaner water. Septic systems are typically seen in residential areas. The treated water is subsequently re-introduced into the environment through filtration. This is critical because untreated sewage may harm nearby streams and water systems, as well as the soil around the perimeter of your septic system. Because your septic system is designed to cleanse and filter sewage, it is critical that it is in proper operating order.

What is a Drainfield?

The drainfield, also known as the leach field, is the area where the water from your septic system is sent after it has been cleansed and filtered. It is necessary to construct a drainfield in order to ensure that water is distributed uniformly back into the soil.

How do I find my septic system?

If you’re fortunate enough to have a contemporary septic system in your yard, it may be equipped with an access lid that is visible from the ground floor. If this is the situation at your residence, locating your septic system is as simple as taking a few steps into your backyard. It’s unfortunate that this isn’t true for older septic systems. It’s possible that you may locate an older system in your home by checking for greener, faster-growing grass or even an area with less growth than the rest of your yard if you live in an older home.

This will show you exactly where your septic system is located in your yard, if you have one.

You’ll need to look for the location where your septic system’s sanitary line exits your home and follow that line until you find your septic tank, which will take some time.

If everything else fails, contact a septic installation company. If you are unable to discover your septic system, your yard may need to be dug up by a septic system installation in order to locate your septic tank as a last option.

How long do septic systems last?

Septic systems are not designed to endure for a specific number of years, thus there is no defined time frame. In the event of adequate maintenance, you may expect your septic system to last several decades before it has to be replaced; but, if your system fails or deteriorates as a result of bad care, its lifespan will be drastically diminished. In order to obtain an accurate estimate of how much longer the life of your septic system may be extended, you must first have it checked thoroughly by an experienced septic system installation or repairer.

What’s the advantage of installing a newer septic system rather than an older system?

Although it is not required to install a new system, there are advantages to having a modern septic tank rather than an older one. For starters, when you get a new septic tank, you can be confident that it will serve you for decades if it is properly maintained, and you will not have to worry about it being “too old.” Additionally, newer systems have been modified to reduce the likelihood of your system becoming clogged, and if something does go wrong with a new system or when it comes time to have your septic system pumped, a new system will likely be easier to locate because they are frequently constructed with ground-level lids.

New septic systems also provide a further treatment for your waste water, allowing it to be cleaner before it is released into the surrounding environment.

How much does a new septic system cost?

Installation of new septic systems may be a significant financial commitment, with costs typically reaching tens of thousands of dollars. Whenever you have to replace an outdated septic system, you should look into financing alternatives that will make it simpler for you to pay for a new septic system in the long run. Purchase further information from a septic system installation business on how to obtain septic systems at the most competitive prices while also taking advantage of low-interest financing options.

How big is my septic tank?

Septic tank capacity is determined by the amount of water consumed in your property as well as local codes and requirements. Check with your local health agency to find out how big your tank is before installing it.

Why should my septic system be pumped out?

Without regular pumping, the gases emitted by human waste accumulate in your septic system, increasing the risk of septic tank damage and the need for more frequent pumping. The regular pumping of your septic system will allow you to limit the rate at which your tank deteriorates and save money in the process. It’s crucial to remember, though, that degeneration is unavoidable in the long run.

It is only via regular maintenance, such as pumping your tank, that your septic system will survive longer. It is recommended that you pump your septic system around once every 2-3 years if you want to prevent having to pay for a whole new tank.

Does my tank need to be dug up to know if it needs to be pumped?

Risers are commonly found in newer septic systems, which allow you to access your tank from the ground level through a lid. It is straightforward for any septic system professional to determine whether or not your yard has risers placed, and whether or not it is necessary to pump it. If, on the other hand, your tank cannot be accessible from the ground level, it will need to be dug up in order to determine whether it has to be drained. Instead of inspecting your septic system to see whether it needs to be pumped on a regular basis, set a timetable for having your system pumped every 2-3 years.

Why should I have risers and lids installed on my septic system?

As a result, when it comes time to find, pump, or repair your septic system, risers are the best choice since they provide ground-level access to your system. Having a septic system lid will allow you to mow your grass while still being able to find your system with no difficulty. Lids and risers also have the advantage of being accessible all year round, as opposed to earlier septic systems that could only be accessed by digging a trench through your yard. If your septic system has to be pumped or repaired for any reason during the winter months, getting beneath layers of frozen earth can be difficult, if not impossible, and you may be forced to wait until the spring to have access to your tank again.

How often should my septic system be pumped out?

A typical septic system contains a 1,500-gallon tank, which needs to be pumped around every 2-3 years for a household of four, according to industry standards. If you have less than four people living in your house, you will most likely be able to pump your septic system every five years rather than every three. You should speak with your local health agency to determine the exact size of your tank, and you should consult a septic system business to determine how frequently your tank should be pumped based on the size of your family and the size of your septic tank.

Do I need to have the septic tank pumped if I’m selling my house?

Consult with your local health department to learn about the restrictions that apply to your region of residence. Generally speaking, as long as your septic system has been pumped on a regular basis by a licensed septic system company and recently enough for the new homeowners to be able to live there for a year or two without having to pump the septic system, you should not be required to have it pumped again in the near future.

How do I find someone to pump my septic system?

It is important to be aware that not all septic system businesses are licensed and that not all firms properly dispose of or recycle the waste they pump from your septic system when you are looking for one to pump it. Finding a firm that complies with EPA standards should be your first concern, and then you should look at price, how pricing is split down, and which company is delivering the most honest, economical, and dependable service should be your next consideration. Investigate business evaluations, and when you select a septic system provider to pump your septic tank, be certain that they do the work properly, leaving enough water and waste to keep the sewage decomposing while leaving no visible trace more than a few inches of waste behind.

You may obtain a list of qualified pumpers by contacting your local health department or by searching online for septic pumpers that have websites that clearly show their certificates and qualifications.

How much does it cost to have my septic system pumped?

It is recommended that you call many pumpers before making a selection, and that you ask as many questions as possible to ensure that you are receiving the best service for your money. Pumping may cost upwards of $200, so it is always wise to shop around before making a decision. You should not consider it a waste of money to have your septic system pumped when the time comes. By correctly maintaining your septic system, you may avoid spending tens of thousands of dollars to replace your septic system long before it should have been replaced in the first place.

What happens if I don’t have my septic system pumped?

The sediments will pile up in your septic tank if you don’t pump it out regularly, ultimately overflowing into the drain field and clogging the drain field. Backups can occur, causing damage to your property and even necessitating the replacement of your drain field, which can be a very expensive error.

I just had my septic system pumped. Why is it full already?

Septic systems are designed to refill rapidly since the purpose of pumping is not to remove water but rather to remove non-biodegradable waste, and the water itself is not the aim of pumping. Once your septic system has been pumped and you begin to use the water in your house, your tank will quickly refill in order to maintain good operation of the system. If the water level rises to a point where it is above the outlet line, contact your septic system service provider for assistance immediately.

What do you look for when inspecting my septic system?

When we do an inspection, we make certain that your septic system is in good operating condition and that it satisfies the standards for receiving a Certificate of Compliance. If you’re planning to sell your home, you should have your septic system checked out by a professional who is certified by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. This will allow you to sell your home faster and for more money, if you can prove that your system has been checked out by an accredited professional. The level of liquid in your septic tank will be checked, and we’ll make sure there is no surface-level discharge.

The drains in my home aren’t draining as quickly as they normally do. Does this have to do with my septic system?

Drains that are clogged and that empty slowly are not necessarily a big source of concern. Before presuming that there is an issue with your septic system, check sure that there isn’t anything obstructing your drain first. In the case of one plumbing fixture in your house that is draining slowly, it is likely due to clogging; however, if all of the drains in your home are slow or leave waste backed up, it is probable that your septic system requires inspection and may even require pumping.

What happens when my septic system fails?

Symptoms of a failing septic system may include minor issues such as drain breaks or pipes that have been stopped, which can be caused by tree roots intersecting with the system. Septic system failure, on the other hand, might indicate that your septic tank has degraded to the point that it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. A blocked drainfield will hopefully not become your problem because it is the most expensive component of your system to replace; nevertheless, if it does, you must act quickly to make the necessary repairs or else your waste will continue to back up, perhaps causing damage to your property.

A blocked drainfield is likely the reason of your sluggish draining pipes, damp yard above your tank or drainfield, sewage stench coming from your yard, or tainted well water. You’ll need to replace the drainfield as soon as possible to avoid further pollution of drinking water sources.

How do I prevent my septic system from failing? How can I properly maintain my septic system?

Your septic system should degrade at a normal rate over the course of several decades if you maintain it on a regular basis. Maintenance normally consists of getting your septic system pumped on a regular basis and making certain that you do not flush or wash anything down the drain that might block your septic system.

What shouldn’t I flush down the toilet?

As a general rule, only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed. There are several reasons why flushing medicine down the toilet is not a good idea. First, medication might kill some of the bacteria in your septic tank, which is necessary to break down solid waste. Second, drugs can pollute adjacent well water. In addition, you should avoid flushing feminine hygiene items, paper towels, tissues, hair, cat litter (even if it is flushable), diapers, wipes, condoms, cigarettes, and anything else that seems to be inorganic and shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet.

What shouldn’t I pour down the drain?

Grease from the kitchen, motor oil, anti-freeze, gasoline, paint, and food should not be flushed down the toilet or drain. You should avoid flushing anything down your drain other than soap and water, and you should especially avoid flushing any form of chemical down your drain that should not be recycled back into the environment, such as fertilizer.

Is using a garbage disposal bad for my septic system?

Using a trash disposal will result in the requirement to pump your septic system more frequently than you would otherwise need to do if you avoided flushing food particles down your drains. Too much food collection in your tank might cause your drainfield to clog since the microorganisms in your tank are not capable to digesting it. When using a trash disposal, check with your septic system company to find out how frequently the disposal should be serviced.

Should I add bacteria to my septic system?

Aside from being completely useless, introducing bacteria to your septic tank is also highly discouraged. The bacteria produced by human waste is sufficient to break down the solid sewage in your tank without the need of bacteria supplements or other methods. If, on the other hand, multiple members of your home are using pharmaceuticals, they will enter your septic system through human waste and kill some of the beneficial bacteria in your tank, causing it to malfunction. Please contact the firm who installed your septic system to see whether or not you should be worried about the amount of bacteria-killing compounds entering the system.

There’s a strong sewer odor outside of my house. Could this be my septic tank?

Strong sewage stench coming from your yard might be coming from your septic system, but it could also be coming from someplace else completely. Identifying the source of the smell is important. Check for propane or gas leaks in your home before concluding that your septic system is at fault; however, if your gas or propane lines are not leaking, determine how long it has been since you had your tank pumped, and whether there is any sewage waste in your yard or other signs of septic system failure before making your final decision.

Can my septic system contaminate nearby water?

It is possible for your septic system to pollute surrounding water sources if it is not properly managed or fails completely.

In the event that you suspect that your septic system is failing, make sure that it is routinely pumped and inspected by an expert.

My gutters’ downspouts drain into my yard above my septic system. Is this a bad thing?

The drainage of your gutters into your yard above your septic system, and particularly into your drainfield, can be hazardous to your septic system. All water should be diverted away from your septic system in order to minimize flooding and damage to your septic system’s tank or drain field.