- You can locate the lid of your septic tank by poking the ground every few feet with a metal probe. Lids can be buried up to a foot deep on average, so be sure to investigate any bumps that may indicate something is buried underneath. You can also use a metal detector, as most lids have a metal handle or fastener on them to keep the lid closed.
How do I find a buried septic tank lid?
You can locate the lid of your septic tank by poking the ground every few feet with a metal probe. Lids can be buried up to a foot deep on average, so be sure to investigate any bumps that may indicate something is buried underneath.
How far down is septic tank lid?
Often, septic tank lids are at ground level. In most cases, they have buried anywhere from four inches to four feet underground.
Should septic tank lids be buried?
In most cases, all components of the septic tank including the lid are buried between 4 inches and 4 feet underground. Unless the septic tank has special risers that position the lid at ground level, you’ll have to dig for it.
Will metal detector find septic tank?
If it’s Concrete or Steel, Use a Metal Detector. Based on your conclusions in Step 3, if your septic tank is likely made from concrete or steel, a metal detector can make the task of locating it much easier. But not just any metal detector will do.
How do I know my septic tank is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
How much dirt should be on top of a septic tank?
Each layer should be uniform, no greater than 24 inches thick, and of nearly equal heights around the perimeter of the tank. However, compaction under the haunch (bottom curvature of some tanks) is best done in 6- to 12-inch layers.
How deep are drain fields buried?
A typical drainfield trench is 18 to 30 inches in depth, with a maximum soil cover over the disposal field of 36 inches.
How do you test a septic drain field?
In order to test the overall health and liquid capacity for your leach field, it is necessary to perform a hydraulic load test. This is done by running water at a certain rate over an allotted period of time. A failure occurs when water back-drains to the source before that allotted time period is up.
How do septic tanks look?
Septic tanks are typically rectangular in shape and measure approximately 5 feet by 8 feet. In most cases, septic tank components including the lid, are buried between 4 inches and 4 feet underground. You can use a metal probe to locate its edges and mark the perimeter.
Can you walk on a leach field?
Your family can walk on a well-maintained drain field without fear of encountering puddles of affluent and dangerous bacteria. Bicycles and tricycles are also acceptable because they are not heavy enough to compress or disturb the soil.
Do septic lids need to be sealed?
Like wells, septic systems have problems if they are not sealed from outside surface water. Most septic systems rely on buried pipes to get rid of the fluids. The lid covers should fit tightly — if they don’t, a company that specializes in septic repairs should be called to fix them.
How many lids are on a septic tank?
In order to make repairs or perform regular maintenance or cleaning/pumping of the tank, access must be provided. There are usually two lids located at the top of the septic tank-one located over the inlet “T” and one located over the outlet “T” (see “Septic Components: Septic Tanks”).
Do septic tanks need to be airtight?
Septic tanks need to be watertight. The riser should be sealed to the top of the tank and the riser cover should be sealed to the riser with butyl rubber or some other flexible sealant. No liquid should enter or leave the tank.
How to Find the Lid on a Septic System
All septic tanks eventually fill with sediments and must be pumped out on a regular basis in order to remain in excellent functioning order. If the tank’s lid is not on a riser at ground level and you are not the home’s original owner, you may be unable to determine where the lid is located. A typical septic tank is 4 inches to 4 feet underground, with all of its components, including the cover, buried between 4 inches and 4 feet underneath. This is true regardless of whether the septic tank is equipped with special risers that keep the lid flush with the surface of the ground.
Consult A Map
First, choose with the most straightforward choice. The installation of septic tanks at all locations is recorded in most counties’ permission records, which are kept on file for future reference. Typically, this will include a schematic indicating the placement of the tank on the land, as well as certain dimensions that will allow you to measure to the precise site of the tank. If your tank was placed before your county made it a requirement to record the location of such tanks, you may find yourself with nothing to show for your efforts.
Search For A Sign
Septic tanks are placed in such a way that they are as unnoticeable as possible on the land. After the grass has grown back after installation and some time has passed, it is possible that just a few visual indications will remain. Pay particular attention to the contours of your yard for any inexplicable high or low points that might suggest the presence of an underground storage tank.
Follow The Pipe
Installation of the septic tank takes place along the sewer line that runs from the house into the front yard. Locate the 4-inch sewage pipe at the point where it exits the home in the basement or crawl space, if it is there. Locate the same spot outside and make a note of it. Insert a thin metal probe into the earth, identify the 4-inch sewage line, and follow it across the yard, probing every 2 feet, until you reach the end of the property. Septic tanks are required to be at least 5 feet apart from the home in all states except Alaska.
Whenever the probe makes contact with flat concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene it indicates that the tank has been located.
Locate The Lid
The majority of septic tanks are rectangular in shape and measure around 5 feet by 8 feet. Investigate the tank’s circumference to determine its boundaries and outline the rectangle’s boundary using a pencil. A septic tank that was built before 1975 will have a single concrete lid that is 24 inches in diameter in the center of the rectangle. If the tank was built after 1975, it will have two covers made of fiberglass or polyethylene, centered at the ends of the rectangle and centered at the ends of the rectangle.
It should be possible to uncover the lid or lids by digging with a spade in specific spots, depending on when year the tank was constructed.
Call A Professional
Opening a septic tank is a job best left to the pros once the lid has been discovered. Concrete septic tank lids are extremely heavy, and many require the use of lifting tools to remove them completely. An open tank has the potential to release toxic gases. Anyone going around on the property who comes into contact with an exposed septic tank might be in risk. Because of the noxious vapors present in an open tank, falling into one can be lethal.
Mark The Spot
Make a note on the ground near where the tank was pumped by a professional and the lid was buried to serve as a reference in the future. In order to keep track of where you are, you should choose a hefty circular patio tile that is embedded in the ground. Additionally, draw your own map of the area and keep it with your other important documents.
How to Locate Your Septic Tank
It may seem impossible to imagine that one of the largest and most visible elements of your whole plumbing system is also one of the most difficult to locate, but when your property is served by a septic system, this is perfectly true. A strong explanation for this is because septic tanks are huge, unattractive, stink horrible and give off an unwarranted impression of dirt. Not only does burying them underground assist to prevent them from harm, but it also provides you with additional useable space on your property and conceals what would otherwise be a blight on your landscape.
This site is dedicated to assisting you in locating your septic system without the need for any time-consuming digging.
How To Find A Septic Tank: Step By Step
It is critical to maintain the health of your septic tank since it is responsible for securely storing and handling the wastewater that drains from your house. It is necessary to pump your septic tank once every 1-3 years, depending on the number of people living in your household and the size of your tank, in order to avoid septic tank repairs or early failure, which means you must be familiar with the location of your tank. It’s not often simple to identify your septic tank, and many plumbers charge extra for this service, which is especially true if your tank’s lid is buried beneath.
1. Gather Some Helpful Tools
Septic tank location may be made much easier with the use of several simple instruments and techniques. To locate your septic tank, you only need to know the following information: A soil probe is one of the most useful instruments for locating a septic tank. It is a tiny piece of metal that is used to puncture through the earth and detect anything that could be buried underneath. Start at the point where your sewage line exits your home and work your way straight out, inserting your soil probe every two feet along the way.
Using this method, you may also locate the cover for your septic tank.
While we highly advise keeping your cover clean and exposed in the event that you require emergency septic service, we recognize that this is not always the case.
2. Use a Septic Tank Map
If you are a new homeowner who is trying to figure out where your septic tank is, a septic tank map should be included in your inspection documentation. You can use this information to assist you in pinpointing the exact position of your storage tank. If you don’t have access to this map, there are a couple of other strategies you can employ.
3. Start Ruling Areas Out
The location of a septic tank cannot be constructed in specific areas due to the risk of causing major damage to your property or tank, as specified by local rules. Your septic tank will not be affected by the following:
- Immediately adjacent to your well
- Beneath your home
- Directly against your home
- For example, underneath your driveway
- Under trees
- And other locations. Structures like a patio or deck are good examples of this.
4. Inspect Your Property
If you take a hard look around your land, there’s a high possibility you’ll be able to locate your septic tank without having to do any probing whatsoever. In many circumstances, a septic tank may be identified by a slight dip or slope on your land that cannot be explained by any other means. Due to the fact that the hole that your contractors excavated for your septic tank may not have been exactly the proper size, they proceeded to install the tank anyhow. This is a rather regular occurrence.
When there is a minor divot or depression, it indicates that the hole was too large and that your contractors simply did not fill the depression to level the hole.
The likelihood of your septic tank being discovered in a few specific locations is quite high.
- Your water well, if you have one (for a variety of reasons that are rather clear)
- Any paved surfaces (it won’t be under a patio, sidewalk, or driveway unless they were added after the home was built and no one performed a proper inspection before it was built)
- Any paved surfaces (it won’t be under a driveway, sidewalk, or patio unless they were added after the home was built and no one conducted a proper inspection before it was built)
- Any paved surfaces (it won’t be under a patio, sidewalk, or driveway unless they were added after the home was built If there is any particular landscaping
5. Inspect Your Yard
A comprehensive investigation of your yard may be necessary to discover your septic tank considerably more quickly in some cases. The following are important items to check for in your yard:
- If your septic tank is overfilled, sewage can seep out into the ground and act as fertilizer for your lawn, resulting in lush green grass. A patch of grass that is unusually lush and green is a good indication that your septic tank is directly beneath it
- Puddles that don’t make sense: If your septic tank is seriously overfilled, it is possible that water will pool on your grass. Another telltale sign that your septic tank is below ground level is an unexplained puddle of water. Ground that is uneven: When installing septic tanks, it is possible that the installers will accidentally create high or low spots on your lawn. If you come across any uneven terrain, it’s possible that your septic tank is right there.
The metal soil probe can let you find out for certain whether or not your septic tank is located in a certain area of your yard or not. As soon as your metal soil probe makes contact with the tank, you may use your shovel to dig out the grass surrounding it and discover the septic tank lid.
6. Follow Your Sewer Main/Sewer Pipes
Following your sewer pipes is one of the most straightforward methods of locating your septic tank. These pipes have a diameter of roughly 4 inches and are commonly found in the basement or crawlspace of your house. They are not dangerous. Following the pipes from your house out into your yard, using your metal soil probe every 2 feet or so until you reach the tank, is a simple process once they are located. Aside from that, every drain in your home is connected to your sewer main, which in turn is connected to your septic tank.
The likelihood that one of your main sewer lines is located in your basement or crawlspace is high if you have exposed plumbing lines in your basement or crawlspace.
If the line is labeled, it is usually made of plastic or rubber. It is important to determine where this line exits your home and in which direction it is traveling, as it typically leads straight out to the septic tank itself.
7. Check Your Property Records
Lastly, if all else fails, a search of your property’s public records will almost certainly reveal the location of the tank you’re looking for. Your builders most likely secured a permit for your property because septic systems are required to be installed by law in every state. In order to do so, they had to create a detailed plan that showed your property as well as the exact location where they intended to install the tank. This is done to ensure that the local health department is aware of the tank and is prepared to deal with any issues that may arise as a result of its presence.
If you look hard enough, you may be able to locate the original building records for your home without ever having to get in your car or visit your local records center.
What to Do Once You Find Your Septic Tank
Upon discovering the position of your septic tank, you should mark its location on a map of your property. Use something to indicate the location of your lid, such as an attractive garden item that can’t be changed, to help you locate it. A birdbath, a rock, or a potted plant are just a few of the possibilities. You are now ready to arrange your septic tank inspection and pumping service. Contact us now! If you have any more concerns regarding how to locate your septic tank, or if you want septic tank servicing, please contact The Plumbing Experts at (864) 210-3127 right now!
How to Find Your Septic Tank Lid
Previous PostNext PostWhether you realize it or not, it is critical that you be aware of the position of your septic tank lid and the septic tank itself. Despite the fact that septic tanks are fairly huge, they can be difficult to identify, particularly if they have not been properly maintained over time. Continue reading to find out how to locate your septic tank lid.
Why It’s Good to Know Where to Find Your Septic Tank Lid
Knowing the location of your septic tank is a fantastic approach to spot septic tank problems as soon as they occur. Consider the following scenario: If you saw water near your septic tank lid, you would know right away that you could have a problem with your system being overloaded with waste. Furthermore, by understanding where your septic tank is located, you may avoid parking cars on top of it, which might cause the tank to collapse and create flooding. You’ll also be able to point service personnel in the right direction for septic tank services, which will eventually save them time and money while also saving you money.
How to Find Your Septic Tank Opening
Knowing how critical it is to know where your septic tank lid is located, it’s time to go out and find one for yourself. Keep an eye out for a circular lid that is approximately two feet in diameter during your search. Septic tank lids are normally constructed of green or black plastic, however they can occasionally be made of concrete. It is not always simple to locate the septic tank lid, however, because untidy vegetation, mud, or debris might obscure the lid’s location.
If you live in a snowy climate, seek for a spot of lawn where the snow melts more quickly than it does anywhere else on the property. That is most likely your septic tank, and you will be able to locate the lid in that location.
How to Find Your Septic Tank Lid as a New Homeowner
During the process of purchasing your house, you should have been provided with a map of your property that showed the location of your septic tank. This is normally included as a part of your home inspection service package. All you have to do from there is compare the diagram to your land, find the septic tank location, and potentially dig around it to check whether the lid has been hidden by vegetation or other obstructions. People have been known to place an object such as a huge rock on top of the septic lid, so be sure to look beneath landscaping stones as well.
How to Find Your Septic Tank Lid as an Existing Homeowner
Still having trouble locating your septic tank lid? There’s a significant probability it’ll end up in the ground. The pipes coming from your basement should be followed, as they will lead you in the direction of your septic system, which is what we recommend. Then, once you’ve determined the correct direction, check for any high or low points in the yard that might reveal the location of your septic tank. You can find the lid of your septic tank by probing the ground with a metal probe every few feet with the probe.
Because most lids have a metal handle or fastener on them to keep the lid closed, you can also use a metal detector to find them.
The majority of lids are buried up to a foot deep, but some lids could be buried as deep as four feet in some cases!
How to Maintain Your Septic Tank Lid
Following the discovery of your septic tank lid, keep it in good condition to avoid damage and ensure simple access for future septic tank maintenance, such as pumping your septic tank every three- to five-year period. Here are some pointers for keeping your septic tank lid in good working order:
- Keeping the grass around the septic tank lid regularly mowed is important. Remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on your septic tank lid
- Mark the area to ensure that no one parks or constructs structures there. It is possible to do this using a flag, garden décor, or ornamental pebbles.
Professional Septic Tank Services
Is it difficult to find trustworthy septic tank services or septic tank installation? If you are looking for septic tank installation, inspection, and cleaning services, check with your local Mr. Rooter ® Plumbing franchise. Mr. Rooter charges a set amount up front, with no overtime fees or additional expenses. To get started, call us at (855) 982-2028 or fill out our online estimate request form. Is the lid of your septic tank obscured by grass? Inquire with The Grounds Guys about routine lawn care and upkeep.
Rooter, is a member of Neighborly’s network of dependable home service experts, which includes Mr.
By hiring The Grounds Guys to provide trustworthy grass mowing and landscape care services, you can be assured that your septic tank lid will always be simple to locate.
How To Find Septic Tank Location: A Guide for Property Owners
The majority of individuals prefer to relax on their back patio or porch and take in the scenery rather than worrying about where their septic tank could be.
When you know exactly where your septic tank is, it will be much easier to schedule routine sewer line cleanouts and repair appointments. Continue reading to find out more about how to locate your septic tank.
Follow the Main Sewer Line
Purchase a soil probe that you may use to probe into the earth in order to locate the underground sewage line and septic tank in your property. Find the main sewer line that leads to your septic tank by going to your basement or crawl space and digging around in there. Look for a pipe with a diameter of around four inches that is leading away from your home or building. Keep a note of the position of the sewer pipe and the point at which the line exits your home so that you can locate it outdoors.
If you have a drain snake, you may use it to try to follow the approximate course of the pipes in your home.
Since the majority of states require at least five feet between a home’s septic tank and its foundation, with many tanks located between 10 and 25 feet away, you may have to probe a bit further out before striking the tank.
Inspect Your Property
Purchase a soil probe that you can use to probe into the ground in order to locate the buried sewer line and septic tank in your yard. Find the main sewage line that leads to your septic tank by going to your basement or crawl space and digging about in it. Look for a pipe with a diameter of around four inches that is leading away from your home or business. Recall where your sewer pipe is located, as well as where it exits your home, in order to locate it when you are out in the field. In the case of a septic tank, sewer pipes will lead to the tank itself.
Every two feet, insert the thin metal probe into the earth to locate and track the sewer lines that have been laid down.
- Paved surfaces
- Unique landscaping
- Your water well, if you have one
- And other features.
If you are still having trouble locating your septic system, you can inquire of your neighbors about the location of their septic tank on their property. Finding out how far away their septic systems are can help you figure out where yours might be hidden in your yard or garden.
Check the Property Records
Are you unsure about how to obtain this? Simply contact your county’s health department for further information. Check with your local health department to see if they have a property survey map and a septic tank map that you can borrow. Perhaps you will be shocked to learn that there are a variety of options to obtain information about your property without ever leaving the comfort of your own residence. Building permits, for example, are frequently found in county records, and they may provide schematics with specifications on how far away from a septic tank a home should be, as well as other important information such as the size of the tank.
Most counties, on the other hand, keep records of septic tank installations for every address. For further information on the placement of your septic tank, you can consult your home inspection documents or the deed to the property.
Don’t Try to Fix Septic Tank Issues Yourself
Septic tank problems should be left to the specialists. The Original Plumber can do routine maintenance on your septic tank and examine any problems you may have once you’ve located the tank. It is not recommended to open the septic tank lid since poisonous vapors might cause major health problems. Getting trapped in an open septic tank might result in serious injury or death. While it is beneficial to know where your septic tank is located, it is also beneficial to be aware of the potential health dangers associated with opening the tank.
Schedule Septic Tank Maintenance
The maintenance of your septic tank on a regular basis helps to avoid sewer backups and costly repairs to your sewer system. You should plan to have your septic tank pumped out every three to five years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people who live in your home. The Original Plumber offers professional septic tank and drain field maintenance and repair services at competitive prices. While it is important to know where the septic tank is located, it is not required. Our team of skilled plumbers is equipped with all of the tools and equipment necessary to locate your tank, even if you have a vast property.
We are open seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
A septic system is a system for the management of wastewater. Simply said, wastewater will exit your home through pipes until it reaches your septic tank, which is located outside your home. Septic tanks are normally located beneath the surface of the earth. Solids and liquids will separate in the septic tank as a result of the separation process. Eventually, the solids will sink to the bottom of the tank and the liquids will drain out into your leach field.
How do I know if I have a septic tank?
Even if there are no obvious signs of a septic tank in your yard – such as uneven landscaping – there are a few ways to determine whether or not your home is equipped with an onsite septic system. Checking your property records is the most reliable technique to ensure that you are utilizing the correct system. When you acquired your house, you should have received a copy of the septic system map with the property documents as well. Checking your utility bill is another way to determine this. Because your septic system is a component of your wastewater management system, you should not receive a water bill from the public utility services provider.
If you do not have a meter attached, it is likely that you are connected to a private well rather than the public sewer network.
What do I do once I locate my septic tank?
Once you’ve discovered where your septic tank is, there are a few things you should do. It is critical to clearly mark the position of your septic tank. With our inspection, pumping, and repair services, you can save time whether you need a sewer line cleanout or a septic tank maintenance job completed quickly. Make a note of the location of your tank so that you can find it again if necessary. It should be heavy enough so that it does not fly away in windy conditions. A creative approach to accomplish this without having an unattractive flag or marking in your yard is to use garden décor or a potted plant.
This way, you’ll have it for future reference and will be able to quickly locate the exact location if necessary.
Then contact The Original Plumber to have your septic system maintained on a regular basis. Preventing worse problems and the need for costly repairs down the line may be accomplished via proper septic system maintenance. All of the heavy lifting has been delegated to our team of professionals.
How to Find Your Septic Tank
Over time, all septic tanks become clogged with sediments and must be pumped out in order to continue functioning properly. Septic tank lids are frequently located at ground level. The majority of the time, they have been buried anywhere between four inches and four feet underground. In the event that you have recently purchased a property and are unsure as to where your septic tank is located, this article will give instructions on how to identify your septic tank. Noteworthy: While every property is unique, septic tanks are usually typically huge and difficult to build.
5 Ways to Find Your Septic Tank
1. Check with the municipal records. The most straightforward method of locating your septic tank is to review the building plans for your home that were approved by the local government. You should have received an application from the business that installed the septic tank, which should contain schematics and specifications that will help you to locate the precise location where the septic tank was installed. 2. Look for highs and lows in your data. The majority of septic tanks are constructed in such a way that they are barely noticeable.
- 3.
- Almost usually, your septic tank will be constructed near where the main sewage line exits your property.
- Septic tanks are typically positioned between ten and twenty-five feet away from a home’s foundation.
- When you do, that’s when your septic tank comes into play!
- Look for the Lid.
- You will most likely find two polyethylene or fiberglass covers positioned on opposing sides of the perimeter of your septic tank if it was built after 1975 and installed after 1975.
- Those areas should be excavated in order to reveal the lids.
- Get in touch with the pros.
- Lifting concrete lids will necessitate the use of specialized equipment.
- A fall into an unprotected septic tank has the potential to be fatal.
- Produce your own diagram of your yard, which you may file away with your other important house paperwork.
That’s all there is to it! If you’ve been wondering where your septic tank is, you now have five options to choose from, which should make finding it easier than ever. To book a plumbing service in Bastrop County, please contact us now!
A QUICK GUIDE TO SEPTIC TANK TROUBLES
Septic tanks are excellent options for disposing of waste generated by a household. However, in order for your septic system to function properly, it must be maintained on a regular basis. Having your septic system pumped may be all that’s needed if your system has been performing well for a few years but is no longer performing properly for whatever reason. Septic tank pumping is part of the normal septic-system maintenance process. Using a septic-pumping service, sludge is removed from your septic tank, allowing waste material to flow and be processed efficiently once more.
YOU CAN SEE, HEAR, AND SMELL SEPTIC TROUBLE
When you are standing close to your leach field, which is the large area where your septic tank is buried, you will be able to see if there is a problem with your septic tank. Septic-treated waste from your septic tank trickles onto the leach field, where it is spread into the surrounding soil. If the area around your leach field appears to be significantly greener than the rest of your yard, you may be experiencing septic tank problems. Whenever the soil in and around the septic tank becomes mushy, pooled, or muddy, stay away from the area and contact your plumber immediately.
The gurgling sound indicates that there is a problem with your drainage system.
Homes with slow or non-functioning septic systems will begin to smell like rotten eggs or sewer gas as a result of the smell.
YOU MAY HAVE A PROBLEM SEPTIC TANK
Your family takes a lot of showers, does a lot of laundry, and runs many dishwasher loads every day, is this the case? It’s possible that your septic tank isn’t big enough for your wastewater capacity. Although the Louisiana Department of Health allows 500-gallon, single-chamber septic tanks for smaller homes, the department recommends that double-chamber or consecutive single-chamber tanks be installed whenever possible. If your leach field is capable of supporting the additional tank flow, you may be able to increase the amount of waste your septic system can handle.
Tanks can also be shifted, resulting in them not being level or not working in the proper direction.
Ideally, air should fill up the top 15 percent of the septic tank’s entire inner height, while the bottom liquid should not reach over 85 percent of the tank’s total inner height.
Sluggish septic system performance can eventually result in backup into your home’s internal water supply lines and plumbing fixtures. In order to resolve this issue, your plumber will locate the obstruction and clear it from the pipe.
YOU NEED PATIENCE WITH SEPTIC FLOODING
If your septic tank has been flooded as a result of storm-related flooding, you must wait for the water to drain before proceeding with any work around your leach field. A soft leach field will not provide adequate protection for buried septic equipment. It is possible that pumping a flood-submerged tank will damage the pipe connections, resulting in the tank popping out of the ground. Reduce your family’s water consumption until your septic system is back up and running, and then cap the septic system.
It is against the law to throw waste water into any creek, stream, or other waterway.
In many circumstances, removing roots, blockages, and debris from your septic lines will be sufficient to rehabilitate your septic system after floods.
Maine Septic Services
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about septic tanks. If you don’t find your question answered on this page, please contact us and we’ll be happy to assist you further.
Q. How often should I have my septic tank serviced?
It is recommended that you replace your A/C system once every two to five years, depending on how often you use it and how many people are utilizing the system.
Q. Do you have to drive on my lawn to service my septic tank?
A. No, it is not our policy. We carry about two hundred feet of hose, which is usually more than enough for most residential applications. We may bring additional hose if necessary if we are given advance notice.
Q. Is it O.K. to use drain cleaners with a septic system?
A. Avoid using drain cleaners and other chemicals whenever possible. They have the potential to disrupt the naturally occurring biological processes in the septic tank and leaching area of the property. One gallon of some hazardous chemicals can pollute twenty-two million gallons of ground water, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Q. Do I need to use additives in my septic system?
In order to maintain a healthy pH balance in your system and to encourage better sewage digestion, we recommend that you flush one cup of baking soda down the toilet once a week.
Q. What do you do with my septage once it is removed from my tank?
It is transported to a Maine DEP-licensed disposal facility, such as a Wastewater Treatment Facility, where it is disposed.
Q. How do I find my septic tank?
A. Here are a few options for you to consider. Septic tanks are typically rectangular in shape, measuring approximately 4 x 8 feet.
- You’ve probably come across a rectangular stretch of ground where the snow melts first in the winter and the grass burns first in the summer. An underground septic tank can be submerged to any depth between flush with the surface of the ground and more than 6 feet. When you look down in your basement, you can see where the sewer pipe exits through a hole in the wall. Take note of how far the pipe extends below the top of the foundation and whether or not it exits through the wall directly. When looking from the outside of the house, this will provide you with an approximate orientation for the pipe leading to the tank. To determine how far the tank is below grade, measure down from the top of the foundation wall to the ground’s surface and subtract that measurement from the inside measurement (also subtract another 6 because the top of the sewer pipe is usually 6 down on either side or end of the tank) to get a rough estimate of how far the tank is below grade. You can probe for the tank top using a steel bar or rod that you push into the earth. Keep in mind that you are looking for a flat rectangular area approximately 4 x 8 inches below the surface of the ground
- Many septic systems are not gravity systems and require pumping to function properly. Excavation around your septic tank and/or pump tank should always be done with extreme caution since electrical lines can be hidden underground and are not usually marked, posing a possible electrical danger. Never fear if you can’t identify your septic tank
- We have specialized equipment that can help us locate the tank if necessary
- Just give us a call.
Q. Can my septic tank baffles be repaired?
A. Yes, we replace a large number of deteriorated concrete baffles with PVC baffles each year.
Q. Are septic tank filters any good, don�t they plug up frequently?
An absolutely necessary addition to your septic tank is the installation of a Zabel filter by our team. These filters help to keep solids down to one-sixteenth of an inch in the septic tank by trapping approximately 80% more solids. Over the years, we’ve discovered that the Zabel filters appear to be the most effective. It is simply necessary to remove the clogged filter, wash it thoroughly and replace it when the problem arises.
In most cases, filter maintenance is performed at the same time as septic tank maintenance. The most significant benefit of the filter is that it contributes to extending the life expectancy of the leach field, which is typically 20 to 25 years.
Q. I hate digging up my septic tank and having the mess in my lawn every three years or so.What can we do to save all that mess?
The installation of a riser above the service cover is recommended. It is recommended that each of the access covers for the filter and pump be equipped with a riser as well. Risers are now required under the State of Maine’s Subsurface Rules. We choose to use Fralo risers because they may be erected in sloping grass areas and because they are simple to install flush with the ground surface.
Q. Do you have any other tips you can give me?
A. Without a doubt! View the State of Maine’s Ten Tips for Maintaining Your Septic System for more information.
How to Find Your Septic Tank
Many people have contacted me via e-mail (usually from across the country) to inquire about the location of their septic tank. “I have no idea,” I generally say as a helpful response to the question. I really want to add something like, “It’s just off your driveway, near that bushy thing,” or anything along those lines. But, truly, even for the most experienced searchers, septic tanks are difficult to come by. The following are some strategies you can employ to assist you in locating your tank.
- Precaution should be exercised before you get started.
- So, proceed with caution!
- Please let me know if you have any questions or need assistance.
- Get to know the beast!
- tanks are normally buried 4 inches to 4 feet below the surface of the ground.
- You might be surprised to learn that someone knows exactly where it is hidden in plain sight.
- It is against the law to dig or probe in your own yard without first locating and marking the underground services.
You will receive the following tools to aid you in your search: Measurement tape, tile probe, and a shovel (if you are ambitious) The following tools are required: a metal detector (borrow or rent one because septic tanks often have iron steel rebar in the lids), and a hoagie sandwich (because finding septic tanks makes you hungry.trust me on this).
- Examine the basement wall to see where all of the pipes join together and exit through the basement ceiling.
- If you don’t have a basement, walk outdoors and check for the roof vents on your house.
- Ordinarily, the sewage line that leads to the septic tank will exit the home right below this ventilation opening.
- On sometimes, the ancient proverb “The grass is always greener on the other side of the septic tank” is true.
Your tank may be located by probing or digging for it, and with luck, you will locate it. Keep in mind that not everything that appears to be a septic tank actually is! It’s possible that you came upon one of the following instead:
- Rubble buried in the ground (not to be confused with Barney Ruble)
- SepticDrywell
- An old foundation
- In case you happen to live in a cemetery (which is spooky), you may use a grave vault to keep your belongings safe.
After a few hours of hopelessly digging about in your yard, it will be time to eat your hoagie and take a little sleep. Following that, it will be necessary to rent or borrow a metal detector. In the event that your next-door neighbor loves Star Wars action figures or has more than three unidentified antennae on his roof, there is a significant probability that you can borrow his metal detector. If you’re lucky, the metal detector will really assist you in finding your septic tank, rather than simply a bunch of old buried automobile parts.
- According to local legend, a pumper known as “Zarzar The Incredible” can locate sewage tanks using a metal measuring tape spanning 30 feet in length.
- Continue to press your commode (“commode” sounds sophisticated) tape deeper and farther down the pipes until he “feels” the bottom of the tank with his tape.
- I recently purchased locate equipment that can be used to locate septic tanks, and I’m excited about it.
- For more information, please contact me at 574-533-1470.
- After that, you can have a video of the inside of your sewer pipes created!
- Related: Visit our Septic System Maintenance page for more information.
- Services provided by Meade Septic Design Inc.
- Both Clients and Projects are included.
- Send me an email!
FAQs — JT’s SEPTIC
Make sure to contact JT’s Septic as soon as possible! It is possible for us to assist you in diagnosing the problem and determining if it is a plumbing issue or a problem directly connected to your septic system. Wastewater backing up into more than one household fixture (even during dry weather), pooling water or muddy soil around your septic system or in your basement are all signs that your system needs to be checked. If you notice any of the following, contact us to have it checked: a strong odor around the septic tank and/or drainfield
Should I Use Septic Tank Additives?
According to current research, there is no clear proof that these items can prevent septic system failure or that they will improve system function. The addition of compounds to a septic tank will not eliminate the necessity for routine tank cleaning. Septic tank cleansers, rejuvenators, and primers that are promoted as such will not hurt your system, but they will not benefit it either. However, there is already a large amount of bacteria in the tank that will break down waste products, so using enzymes or yeast would not hurt your system at all.
Septic system additives should be avoided, according to the North Dakota State University Agriculture Communication. “Do Septic System Additives Work?” you might wonder. -Tank Refueling Station
what are the PVC pipes sticking up in my yard?
Septic tank cleanouts are often located between the home and the septic tank, and they are used to snake the input line from the house to the tank. If the PVC markers are labeled with “JT’s Septic,” they indicate that they are marking the access lids to your septic tank (buried directly under the labels). Alternatively, if the pipes are further away and appear to be randomly placed in relation to the house or tank, it is possible that they are inspection ports used to monitor the level of liquid in the disposal area.
will household cleaning products harm my system?
The majority of specialists believe that the usual use of household cleaning solutions will not harm the system since it will not prevent the activity of bacteria in the tank from taking place as intended. A large amount of some chemicals, on the other hand, may interfere with the breakdown of wastes in the tank or cause the soil treatment area to get clogged. Please remember that the goods you use may ultimately make their way into the groundwater systems in your community.
How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?
Most tanks require pumping every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank, the amount of wastewater that flows into the tank on a daily basis, and whether or not the tank is equipped with a trash disposal. The state of Arizona currently does not have any laws requiring maintenance and inspection (with the exception of those pertaining to the sale of a home), but the Environmental Protection Agency and local health departments strongly recommend routine maintenance to help prevent groundwater contamination due to nitrogen, phosphorus, and disease-causing bacteria that can be found in wastewater.
I just had my tank pumped and it already looks full!?!
There is a distinction between being full and being overfull! An empty septic tank will fill up as quickly as you use up the amount of gallons it can hold in terms of water consumption. The tank is designed to maintain a liquid level at or near the bottom of the outlet pipe at all times. (that exits into the disposal area). When you look down into your tank, it should appear to be completely filled. It is necessary to hire an expert to assess the quantity of scum and sludge in your tank in order to decide when it is time to pump it out.
Does anyone have to be home to have jt’s pump my septic tank?
A distinction exists between being completely full and completely overfull. An empty septic tank will fill up as quickly as you use up the quantity of gallons it can contain in terms of gallons. The tank is designed to maintain a liquid level at or near the bottom of the outflow pipe at all times (that exits into the disposal area). The water in your tank should seem to be full when you gaze into it from above. When determining whether or not your tank is ready to be pumped out, it is necessary to consult with a specialist.
Does JT’s Septic do leach line work?
At this time, JT’s does not install or do any work on leach lines or disposal locations.
We do minor repairs on septic tanks, as well as on the inlet and outlet sewer lines. Not sure if we can assist you? Just give us a call!
Why can’t you pump my septic tank out of the sewer cleanouts?
Tanks simply cannot be pumped effectively through sewer cleanouts; our trucks’ pumps are simply too powerful to pump through cleanouts, and there is no way to get all of the scum and sludge out of the tank through a cleanout.It is recommended that tank access lids be used to properly remove all liquid and solids, as well as to inspect the baffles.Our policy is to open all compartments and pump out the entire contents of the tank.
The fact that you do not pump via the primary access holes in the tank itself is a disservice to yourself and your system.
how do you know the size of my tank?
Our experts and inspectors can identify the size of the tank based on the form of the tank; tanks for a normal residence are generally 1,000 or 1,250 gallons in capacity, respectively (tanks may be smaller or larger depending on bedroom count, style of tank, etc). Our trucks are outfitted with clear sight glasses, allowing our specialists to keep track of the number of gallons they are extracting from your tank. Our specialists are also trained to measure the tank measurements on the job site in order to establish the approximate gallon capacity.
why do you recommend routine maintenance and frequent pump outs when I’ve not a had a problem in the last 10 years and I’ve never had my tank pumped?
Even while many homeowners are able to go several years over the suggested maintenance time without experiencing any problems, harm is gradually being done. Solids that are insoluble in water and cannot be broken down by natural microbes are stored in the tank. This builds up over time until the tank no longer has enough space to hold everything. As a result, the solids make their way to the drain field where they fill up the pores in the earth, causing poor drainage and, eventually, the failure of the septic system and drainfield.
How long will my septic system last?
All septic systems have a defined life span, which means they will ultimately cease to function. The length of time a system will survive is determined by the system’s size, installation, soil composition, the water table, neighboring trees and roots, the amount of usage and abuse, and, most crucially, the frequency with which it is maintained and pumped.
if I have a garbage disposal Can i use it?
Yes! It is OK to use the garbage disposal for a limited amount of time, such as for food crumbs that remain after doing the dishes. Pump outs will be more frequent if the disposal is used more frequently, which will result in higher costs. The usage of a trash disposal can have a negative impact on your septic system by increasing the quantity of suspended particles that enter the system. Soil treatment areas can get clogged with suspended particles, which reduces the soil’s ability to remove waste.
CAN I FLUSH WET WIPESFEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS?
No! The presence of this problem is one of the most common we encounter in tanks. Wipes and/or feminine hygiene items block sewer pipes and do not decompose properly in the holding tank, causing backups.
how often can i do laundry?
It is critical not to overburden your computer system. Instead of completing a large number of loads in a single day, try to spread them out over the course of a week. Doing no more than two loads of laundry per day – one in the morning and one in the evening – is recommended.
Can I have a water softener system with a septic system?
It is unlikely that a water softener will cause damage to most septic systems, albeit they may necessitate the installation of a somewhat bigger tank disposal area.
Can We Drive Over Our Leach Field?
Neither driving on the leach field nor on the inlet and outlet sewer pipes, nor on the septic tank, is recommended by the manufacturer. It is possible to restrict or slow down efficient evaporation by compacting the soil over the leach lines. Evaporation is a critical component of the drainage and disposal process. It is possible to cause settling and even breakage of sewer pipes by driving over them. It is possible to produce cracks in a tank by driving over it, especially if it is made of fiberglass or plastic.
do i have a septic systeM?
Do you utilize well water in your home? Is there no meter on the water main that leads into your home? Do your water bill or property tax bill display a “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged” or “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged”? What about your next-door neighbors? Do they have a septic system? Your home may have a septic system if any of the following questions were answered affirmatively:
How do I find my septic system?
Once you’ve confirmed that you have a septic system, you may identify it by looking at your home’s “as built” drawing, inspecting your yard for lids and manhole covers, or calling us for assistance.
How Far Does The Tank Have To Be Away From The House?
The standard setback distance from the house is ten feet. Yavapai County is committed to upholding this requirement. Keep these setbacks as they are to allow for easier access and to avoid any potential foundation and moisture issues.
An alarm is going off in my tank- what do I do?!
The alarms on some alternative systems alert the homeowner to a potential problem prior to effluent or waste backing up into the house. The alarm may sound to indicate a problem with the electrical system or a high level of liquid in the tank. A pump or float may be malfunctioning, in which case it is best to contact either JT’s or your alternate system maintenance provider for assistance as soon as possible.
Can I Plant A Tree Over My Leach Field?
No. Root invasion from trees is one of the most common problems that affect septic systems today. Certain types of trees are extremely harmful to your septic system and should be avoided at all costs. Please check your local nursery for further information.
does jt’s provide portable storage tanks?
We’re sorry, but we don’t provide portable storage tanks at the present moment.
can jt’s facilitate a pipeline repair?
Yes! We are capable of repairing and replacing sewer inlet and outlet pipes. Our main line sewer camera service may also be used to plan infrastructure maintenance, as well as to aid with any and all forms of repair work. Please contact us if you would like to book a service.
why do you suggest running a sewer camera down my line?
A difficult blockage may necessitate the services of more than one plumber. Pipe obstructions can be caused by a variety of factors, including tree roots, grease, aging pipes, and foreign items. Our power snakes and Ridgid sewer cameras are excellent tools for identifying problems such as the following: Pipes that are broken, cracked, corroded, or collapsed are considered damaged and must be repaired or replaced. A clog is caused by a deposit of grease or a foreign item that prevents the passage of water.
Joints that are leaking—the seals between pipes have failed, enabling liquid to leak through. Root invasion occurs when tree or shrub roots penetrate the sewer line, preventing normal flow and/or causing a blockage in the pipe.* The following is the source:
Septic Tank Clean-Out 101
Septic tanks of various shapes and sizes are pumped out by John Kline Septic Services. From residential to commercial to municipal work, there is something for everyone. Maintaining your septic tank is essential, whether you’re in need of a clean-out or you simply want to learn more about the process. To learn more, continue reading or contact us today to schedule service. We provide same-day service for emergencies, and our technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Always In order to ensure that your septic tank gets cleaned out through the largest available opening, Your septic tank or system may have more than one access point, depending on the type of tank or system you have installed.
This is normally covered with a cement lid or manhole cover that is 18-24 inches in diameter and is often raised to grade with an extension.
It also makes it difficult to completely clean out the tank, therefore it’s critical to ensure that your tank is well cleaned from the primary entry.
In spite of the fact that we recommend that you have your tank pumped out every two to three years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people living in your home, you may be able to extend the period between clean-outs without suffering any difficulties.
When it comes to septic tank cleaning, we recommend that you never go more than FIVE years between cleanings to ensure everything is operating correctly and that your tank is filtering out waste in the appropriate manner.
Ensure that your septic tank is easily accessible before scheduling your septic clean-out.
Make a notation on your manhole cover or access port if it is hidden by your landscaping so that your technician can easily locate the cleanout when he or she arrives on site.
Simply inquire or contact us in advance to inquire about the possibility of installing a riser at the time of your septic pumping.
Are you prepared to get your septic tank cleaned?
We provide commercial and residential septic pumping services in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas, including York, Lebanon, Berks, Chester, and Dauphin counties, as well as the surrounding areas. Make a call right now at 717-898-2333.
