Septic Tank For A Basement What Do I Need? (Best solution)

  • Right off the bat, septic tanks need space to be buried in, typically 8 feet or more of soil (although, special “low boy” tanks can be placed in as little as 4 feet of soil while advanced wastewater treatment systems can be above-ground entirely).

Do you need a pump for basement bathroom on septic?

Conversely, if there is a bathroom in a basement and the road appears to be 5 or more feet above the basement there is a good chance there is a sewage pit and pump in the basement. The sewage pump is needed to pump the refuse from the toilet out to the city or septic system.

What materials do I need for a septic tank?

Septic tanks are classified into 4 different types based on materials used for manufacturing and they are as follows:

  • Concrete septic tank.
  • Steel septic tank.
  • Plastic septic tank.
  • Fiberglass septic tank.

What pump is needed to connect a basement sink to a septic system?

A septic ejector pump, sump pump or grinder pump is a system designed to remove effluent and solid waste from a home when plumbing fixtures, such as a toilet or sink drain, are below the grade of the septic tank or sewer line.

How do you put a bathroom in a basement without breaking concrete?

The best way to install the shower in a basement bathroom without damaging your floors is to look into an upflush toilet system. While traditional basement showers require you to drill into shower base and concrete to add a drain, a Saniflo system sits on top of concrete floors.

How do I vent my basement plumbing?

For optimum ventilation, consider installing a fan in the basement bathroom. Then, drill holes in the ceiling with a drill to install the ceiling fan. If you need adequate ventilation, try installing it in a suitable location, such as between a shower and a bathroom, to ventilate the air.

Are septic tanks made of concrete?

Modern septic tanks are made out of either industrial plastic or precast concrete. Some tanks are also made of fiberglass, though this material is uncommon in the United States. Concrete is inherently watertight, whereas plastic and fiberglass must undergo extra processes in order to hold water.

Are plastic septic tanks better than concrete?

Plastic septic tanks are watertight and are immune to water-based corrosion. They are also rust-resistant. Plastic tanks are less prone to cracking since plastic is flexible, and thus a plastic septic tank does not crack as much as a cement septic tank. Plastic septic tanks are more hygienic than cement tanks.

Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?

The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.

Can I use a sump pump in my septic tank?

A: No. If you have a septic system, under no circumstances should the sump be pumped into the basement floor drain. Adding to the flow with a sump pump can damage the septic system. Even if you are connected to a public sanitary system, the sump should not be pumped into a floor drain.

What size sewage pump do I need in my basement?

If you live in an area that floods a lot, the. 5-hp or ¾ hp pump might be the best option, as it can remove 3,000 gallons of water or more per hour. For those who don’t need a large sump pump, the. 25-hp motor is a good pick.

Can you use a sump pump for sewage?

The short answer to this is, “ yes, most likely.” Both of these pumps are similar in that they are comprised of a holding tank or large canisters and pumps. They are also both used as indoor septic systems—but there are different purposes for each.

Is it worth putting a bathroom in the basement?

Adding a bathroom to your basement makes it livable space, which increases the overall market value of your home. A bathroom in your basement can also be a huge selling point for buyers if you are ever looking to sell. When a basement is unfinished with no bathroom, buyers look at the basement as wasted space.

Do you need a special toilet for the basement?

A basement toilet is a necessary addition to your basement bathroom, but plumbing a basement toilet is a different animal. If your home has the sewer-line that runs deep enough for gravity (below the basement concrete floor level) to take care of waste disposal, then you may be in luck.

Do Upflush toilets work?

Does it work?” The answer is yes! For all intents and purposes, an upflush toilet is exactly the same as any standard toilet. Waste goes in and flushes out the bowl with the help of strong water pressure. The only difference is what happens to that waste after you flush.

Adding a Bathroom to Your Basement: Design & Drainage Considerations

The addition of a bathroom to basement quarters not only makes life a bit simpler, but it also increases the value of your home in the long run. If you’ve converted your finished basement into a second bedroom, game room, or gym area, a basement bathroom allows you to take advantage of that space without having to trek upstairs when the urge to pee strikes. Building a bathroom in the basement may appear to be a logical home renovation project, but it is not something that should be undertaken lightly.

If you take care of those concerns before you begin, your project should go off well.

Nonetheless, becoming familiar with the project’s specifications will make it simpler to collaborate with your contractor in order to get the bathroom design you desire.

Design considerations

The first thing you should do is get in touch with your local building authority. You should be aware that with any construction project, particularly one in a basement, zoning rules and deed limitations will need to be taken into consideration. Aim to position the new bathroom as near to the existing plumbing and electrical wiring as feasible in the best case scenario. Often, placing your basement bathroom exactly below the bathroom on the floor above is the most effective solution. Utility hookups will be easier and less expensive as a result of this.

  1. Alternatively, would you want a half-bathroom with only a toilet and a sink, or would you prefer an entire bathroom with a bathtub or standing shower?
  2. For those who do need a place to clean up, try an economicalcornershowerinstead of a bathtub.
  3. It is vitally necessary to have a high-capacity ventilation fan to suck off moisture.
  4. In order to handle overflows, a floor drain and access to an outside wall for the dryer vent will be required.

Drainage considerations

When it comes to adding a bathroom to basement rooms, drainage is the most important factor to consider. Gravity is used to drain away sewage and wastewater from standard aboveground bathroom plumbing installations. When waste is moved down the pipes, it is assisted by gravity, which is referred to as a “fall” or “slope.” In order for the toilet, sink, tub, or shower to drain properly in a basement bathroom, there must be a sufficient drop.

When surveying your basement for the purpose of installing a new bathroom, your contractor will pay close attention to two major considerations.

  1. Plumbing depth—If your current plumbing drain is deep enough to allow for adequate drainage, bathroom building will be very straightforward. If this is the case, you’ll need to investigate some alternatives to traditional gravity-fed toilets
  2. If this is not the case, Measurement of pipe size— If your present pipes are too tiny, your plumber will need to install larger pipes in order to accommodate the basement drains.

Depending on the depth of your sewage line, your basement bathroom plumbing may be able to operate on gravity in the same way that your aboveground plumbing works. Obtaining information on the depth of your sewer pipe can be accomplished through your local public works agency. If you have a septic tank, you’ll need to determine whether or not your home’s septic lines are deep enough using the information you’ll most likely already possess. There may even be plumbing stubs accessible already if your property was constructed with the aim of adding a basement bathroom.

  1. Even if your drain lines are sufficiently deep, there are certain additional concerns to keep in mind.
  2. To prevent sewage from backing up into your toilet when connected to a public sewer line, you’ll need to install a backwater valve.
  3. There will be more work to be done if your drainage lines are not deep enough to generate adequate fall in your yard.
  4. However, for some homes, this will not be enough to generate adequate fall, but this does not imply that you should abandon your idea.

Basement toilet options

You have a variety of options for commodes for your new bathroom, depending on the plumbing that is already in place. Toilets with pressure-assistance— Despite the fact that your drainage pipes are theoretically too deep for gravity-fed plumbing, the fall in the basement is still not as great as it is on the higher levels of your home. Instead of putting yourself at danger of clogging your pipes with regular plumbing, invest in a pressure-assisted toilet, which employs air pressure to move waste through your pipes.

  1. A series of pipes runs up through the basement wall and out through the basement ceiling, where they connect to the sewer or septic tank line.
  2. There is a macerating feature in some of these types that grinds waste down to prevent blockage.
  3. New versions are powered by electricity, which eliminates the need for these issues.
  4. They’re similar to miniature septic tanks in that they only store waste for a short period of time.
  5. Because aboveground models are installed on the ground surface, there is no need to excavate for them.
  6. This tank may also be used to collect water from your sink, bathtub, or shower.
  7. These devices consist of a tank and pump that are installed in a hole beneath the basement floor.

Installation is more difficult for underground models than for aboveground ones, owing to the fact that they require excavation.

They use little to no water and convert your waste into compost that can be used to grow ornamental plants.

Bathtubs and showers are being installed.

It is possible that you may need to tear up the floor and excavate in order to install the plumbing.

You may also link your shower to your upflush toilet or sewage-ejector system as an alternative option.

If you’re planning on placing your basement bathroom against an aboveground outside wall, take advantage of the chance to bring natural light into the space.

In addition, pick bright ceiling lighting as well as lights for the vanity area to illuminate the space.

Your basement bathroom may be just as nice as your main bathroom if you choose the correct layout, fixtures, and accessories.

If you overlook any of the characteristics that distinguish belowground bathrooms from aboveground bathrooms, you might end up with a costly disaster on your hands.

However, if you have prior building knowledge, you may be able to do this project on your own.

Hire a professional plumber to do the task as quickly, easily, and reasonably as possible so that you can use your basement bathroom as soon as feasible. For more information on adding a bathroom to your completed basement, please call Black Diamond PlumbingMechanical now.

All You Need to Know About Adding a Basement Bathroom

Image courtesy of fotosearch.com Incorporating a basement bathroom can increase the value of your property, but installing toilets and sinks in a below-grade setting requires more than just a basic understanding of drainpipes and sewage lines. Because the gravity assist that works for trash removal upstairs will operate against waste flow belowgrade, transporting garbage to the sewer line is a difficult task. However, there are a variety of solutions that fall under the category of do it yourself.

Find dependable local contractors for any home improvement project+

Belowground Water and Waste Pipes

Moving belowgrade bathroom waste to a sewer, septic, or sanitation line is not a difficult task for some homeowners since their sewer lines are deep enough to accommodate additional fixtures that benefit from gravity-assisted waste disposal. A phone call to the public works department will provide the general depth of the sewage pipe. Owners of residential properties should have easy access to precise information on their septic systems. Contact a plumber or plumbing professional to establish flow rates and if the system will be able to remove waste from basement fixtures properly.

This will avoid sewage backup in the basement.

Aboveground Solutions

There are a variety of methods for transporting bathroom or basement wastewater to sewage or septic systems. The “upflushing toilet,” freestanding sewage-ejector systems, and composting toilets are examples of aboveground alternatives. Aboveground solutions are ones that do not need the homeowner or installer cutting through an existing basement slab, resulting in cheaper installation costs for the homeowner or installer. Upflushing toilets are available in a variety of styles and configurations, but all have a pumping mechanism that is concealed within or behind the toilet.

Although upflushing toilet systems are pricey, the money saved on installation expenses makes them a worthwhile investment.

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“Upflushing toilets sit on top of the floor, you don’t have to break the concrete, and servicing them is easy,” he says.

Macerating and Composting Toilets

Some upflushing toilet systems are equipped with a macerating or grinding mechanism that breaks down waste into tiny pieces prior to pumping, hence reducing the likelihood of blockage. An upflushing toilet system consisting of a toilet bowl, toilet tank, and macerating unit, the Saniplus macerating toilet from Sanif is available. Located in the bathroom or behind the wall, the macerating device (which also contains an electrically driven motor and pump) has the capability of pumping waste twelve feet vertically and/or 150 feet horizontally, depending on the configuration chosen.

Composting toilets are also a potential option for below-grade conditions, but they are only intended for the disposal of toilet waste and nothing else.

The MS10 Composting Toilet by Envirolet is powered by electricity, is self-contained, and sits on the floor.

They eliminate water loss and do not require the use of chemicals in the composting process, making them a more ecologically friendly option.

Due to the limited amount of material that may be composted in a day, utilization must be closely monitored and the unit must be emptied on a regular basis. Composting toilets can cost upwards of $1,000 to install.

Sewage-Ejector Systems

A freestanding or aboveground sewage-ejector system is another waste removal alternative that does not necessitate the drilling of holes through concrete foundations. These systems are normally contained within an enclosure, with the toilet (which is typically not included) mounted on top of the enclosure. Mini septic tanks are what these systems are essentially. This collection tank holds waste from the toilet, sink, shower/bath, and washing machine. It also contains the pump that transports the trash up and into the home’s drainage pipes.

It costs roughly $600 to purchase the Up Jon system from Zoeller; however, it does not come with a toilet.

Belowground Options

Belowground sewage-ejector systems are the least expensive alternative, but they are also the most difficult to set up and maintain. It is intended for these tank-and-pump sets to be installed in a hole in a basement floor, allowing floor fixtures to drain into the tank by gravity. The size of these units varies, but they are normally twenty inches in diameter and thirty inches deep on average. According to industry standards, the capacity of a holding tank ranges from thirty to forty gallons.

In the past, you’d have to buy the pieces individually and assemble the whole thing yourself.” Basically, all you have to do now is drop it in the ground and tie it down.” A below-ground system should cost around $400, according to industry estimates.

Cutting through a concrete slab to excavate the unit’s installation hole and any drainage pipes from extra basement fixtures will put the homeowner back a significant amount of money.

If you flush anything down the toilet by mistake, it may be a very messy task to get it back out.

Septic System Guide: How It Works and How to Maintain It

As soon as you flush the toilet in most metropolitan locations, the waste is pumped out to the nearest sewage treatment facility. Garbage is processed at this factory, which separates it into two types of waste: water that is clean enough to be dumped into a river and solids known as residual waste. The remaining material is either disposed of in landfill or utilized as fertilizer. Septic systems, which are used in places where there aren’t any sewage treatment plants, provide a similar function, but on a much smaller scale.

In most cases, waste-water exits the home and drains into an underground septic tank that is 20 to 50 feet distant from the house, kicking off the treatment process.

What are Septic Tanks and How Do They Work?

Septic tanks are normally composed of concrete or heavyweight plastic and have a capacity of 1000 to 2000 gallons, depending on the manufacturer. In the tank, there are two chambers that are divided by a portion of a wall. The waste from the residence is channeled into the bigger room. Solids sink to the bottom of the chamber, and liquids make their way through a partial wall into the smaller second chamber, which is located above it. Anaerobic bacteria, which are found naturally in the environment, digest the solids and convert them into water, carbon dioxide, and a tiny amount of indigestible debris.

Septic Fields Distribute Liquid Effluent

The second chamber has an output pipe via which the liquid (known as effluent) from the tank is discharged to a disposal or leach field, depending on the situation. It is drained into the earth by a network of perforated pipes or through perforated plastic structures known as galleries, which are constructed of perforated plastic. It is common practice to lay the pipe or galleries in a bed of gravel, which aids in dispersing the liquid. During the course of the effluent’s percolation through the soil, the soil absorbs remaining bacteria and particles, resulting in water that is safe to drink by the time the water reaches the aquifer deeper down.

  • They are not much deeper than that since a large quantity of water escapes through evaporation or is transpired by grass growing above ground.
  • If you have sandy soils that drain too rapidly, you may not be able to treat the wastewater properly.
  • Sometimes the water cannot be disposed of properly because the natural soils include a high concentration of silt or clay.
  • Topsoil and grass are applied to the mound, which allows more water to leave through transpiration and evaporation than would otherwise be possible.

Septic Systems Rely on Gravity, Most of the Time

The majority of septic systems rely on gravity to transfer the liquid from the home to the tank and then to the field where it will be disposed of. However, due to the slope of the land, the tank or the field may need to be higher than the house in some instances. It is necessary to have a pump, or occasionally two pumps, in order for this to operate. A grinder pump, which liquefies sediments and is installed in a pit in the basement or crawlspace of the home, will be used if the tank is higher than the house.

Sewage pumps are essentially large sump pumps that are used for heavy-duty applications. When the amount of effluent in the pit reaches a specific level, a float activates a switch, which then activates the pump, which empties the pit.

How to Treat Your Septic System

It is not necessary to do much to keep your septic system in good working order, other than cut the grass above it and keep the drainage area free of trees and plants with roots that may block it.

How Often Do You Need to Pump A Septic Tank?

You should have a septic provider pump out the particles from your tank every two years, at the absolute least. A manhole at the surface of the tank will provide the pump operator access, but older systems may necessitate digging a hole in the tank’s top so the pumping hatch can be exposed. Unless the tank is continuously pumped, sediments will build up in it and ultimately make their way into the leach field, clogging it. You’ll know it’s occurring because untreated effluent will rise to the surface of the tank and back up into the home, causing it to overflow.

Pumping the tank on a regular basis can ensure that the leach fields continue to work eternally.

What to Do if Your Septic System Fails

Pumps in a pumped septic system will ultimately fail, just as they will in any mechanical system. Most pumps are equipped with an alarm that sounds when the effluent level in the pit is greater than it should be, indicating that the pump has failed and has to be replaced. This is a job that should be left to the professionals. Visit the following website to locate a trusted list of installation and septic system service companies in your area:

  • The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association’s Septic Locator
  • The National Association of Wastewater Technicians
  • And the National Association of Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association

It is rare for a homeowner to have to worry about their septic system because it is well-maintained and doesn’t cause problems. Simple maintenance, such as keeping the tank pumped and the lawn trimmed, should result in decades of trouble-free service. What kind of protection do you have in place for your home’s systems and appliances against unforeseen maintenance needs? If this is the case, you might consider purchasing a house warranty.

  • Home Warranty Coverage for Roof Leaks
  • Septic Warranty Coverage and Costs
  • And more. Plans for protecting your mobile home’s warranty
  • What Is Home Repair Insurance and How Does It Work? How to Find the Most Reasonably Priced Home Appliance Insurance

Septic Tank Installation and Pricing

To process and dispose of waste, a septic system has an underground septic tank constructed of plastic, concrete, fiberglass, or other material that is located beneath the earth. Designed to provide a customized wastewater treatment solution for business and residential locations, this system may be installed anywhere. Although it is possible to construct a septic tank on your own, we recommend that you hire a professional to do it owing to the amount of skill and specific equipment required.

Who Needs a Septic Tank?

For the most part, in densely populated areas of the nation, a home’s plumbing system is directly connected to the municipal sewer system. Because municipal sewer lines are not readily available in more rural regions, sewage must be treated in a septic tank. If you’re moving into a newly constructed house or onto land that doesn’t already have a septic tank, you’ll be responsible for putting in a septic system on your own.

How to Prepare for Your Septic Tank Installation

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind to make sure your septic tank installation goes as smoothly as possible.

Receive Multiple Estimates

Receiving quotations from licensed septic tank installers and reading reviews about each firm using trustworthy, third-party customer evaluations should be done before any excavation or signing of any paperwork is done. Examine your options for a contractor and make sure they have the appropriate insurance and license, as well as the ability to include critical preparations such as excavation and drain field testing in their quotation.

Test the Soil and Obtain a Permit

For septic systems to function properly, permeable soil surrounding the tank must absorb and naturally handle liquid waste, ensuring that it does not pollute runoff water or seep into the groundwater. The drain or leach field is the name given to this region. Before establishing a septic tank, you are required by law to do a percolation test, sometimes known as a “perc” test. This test indicates that the soil fits the specifications established by the city and the local health agency. In most cases, suitable levels of permeable materials, such as sand or gravel, are necessary in a soil’s composition.

Note: If you wish to install a septic tank on your property, you must first ensure that the ground passes the percolation test.

Plan for Excavation

Excavation of the vast quantity of land required for a septic tank necessitates the use of heavy machinery. If you are presently residing on the property, be careful to account for landscaping fees to repair any damage that may have occurred during the excavation process. Plan the excavation for your new home at a period when it will have the least influence on the construction process if you are constructing a new home. Typically, this occurs before to the paving of roads and walkways, but after the basic structure of the home has been constructed and erected.

The Cost of Installing a Septic Tank

There are a few installation charges and additional expenditures connected with constructing a new septic system, ranging from a percolation test to emptying the septic tank and everything in between.

Percolation Test

A percolation test can range in price from $250 to $1,000, depending on the area of the property and the soil characteristics that are being tested. Ordinarily, specialists will only excavate a small number of holes in the intended leach field region; however, if a land study is required to identify where to excavate, the cost of your test may rise.

Building Permit Application

A permit will be required if you want to install a septic tank on your property. State-by-state variations in permit prices exist, however they are normally priced around $200 and must be renewed every few years on average.

Excavation and Installation

When you have passed a percolation test and obtained a building permit, your septic tank is ready to be professionally placed.

The cost of a new septic system is determined by the size of your home, the kind of system you choose, and the material used in your septic tank. The following is a list of the many treatment methods and storage tanks that are now available, as well as the normal pricing associated with each.

Types of Septic Tank Systems

Septic system that is used in the traditional sense Traditionally, a septic system relies on gravity to transport waste from the home into the septic tank. Solid trash settles at the bottom of the sewage treatment plant, while liquid sewage rises to the top. Whenever the amount of liquid sewage increases over the outflow pipe, the liquid waste is discharged into the drain field, where it continues to disintegrate. This type of traditional septic system is generally the most economical, with an average cost of roughly $3,000 on the market today.

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Drain fields for alternative systems require less land than conventional systems and discharge cleaner effluent.

Septic system that has been engineered A poorly developed soil or a property placed on an uphill slope need the installation of an engineered septic system, which is the most difficult to install.

It is necessary to pump the liquid waste onto a leach field, rather than depending on gravity to drain it, in order to ensure that it is equally dispersed across the land.

Types of Septic Tanks

  • Concrete septic tanks are long-lasting and rust-proof, but they are difficult to repair if they are damaged. It is possible that concrete tanks will cost up to $2,000 depending on their size. Plastic —While plastic tanks are cost-effective, they are also susceptible to damage. They are around $1,200 in price. Fiberglass —While fiberglass septic tanks are more durable than their plastic counterparts, they are susceptible to shifting or displacement if the water table rises to an excessive level. Depending on the model, these tanks may cost up to $2,000

More information may be found at: Septic Warranty Coverage and Costs.

Using Your Septic Tank

It is important to maintain the area around your new septic tank’s drain field and to frequently check your tank using the lids included with it. Never use a trash disposal in conjunction with your septic tank since it might cause the system to clog. Additionally, avoid driving over the land where your septic tank is located or putting heavy gear on top of your septic tank or drain field to prevent damage. Most of the time, after five years of septic system use, you’ll need to arrange a cleaning and pumping of the system.

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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 few of additional strategies you might 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. Because of code issues or just because it doesn’t make sense, it’s highly unlikely that your septic tank will be located near any of the following locations:

  • 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 leak out into the ground and function as fertilizer for your lawn, resulting in lush green grass. A area of grass that is very lush and green is a good sign that your septic tank is just 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 indicator that your septic tank is below ground level is an unexplainable pool of water. Ground that is uneven: When installing septic tanks, it is possible that the contractors will mistakenly create high or low patches on your grass. 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 sewage lines 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 sewage main, which in turn is connected to your septic tank.

The likelihood that one of your major 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.

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 develop a thorough plan that depicted your property as well as the exact location where they intended to construct 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 Add to an Existing Septic Tank

The size of your septic tank is often determined by estimating the amount of water used by your property. It is possible, though, that you may need to upgrade your septic tank as you make changes to your property. To accommodate an additional bathroom, for example, modifications to your current septic system may be required. How to Install a New Septic Tank in an Existing Septic Tank Calum Redgrave is the photographer that captured this image. -close/iStock/GettyImages

What Is a Septic Tank?

A septic tank is a compartment beneath the earth through which effluent is channeled. The presence of a sufficiently big septic tank is vital for water safety. A septic tank that is too tiny will not be able to hold the wastewater in place. This retention is critical to the process of purifying the water in order to ensure that it may be safely dispersed into the surrounding earth. Smaller-than-expected septic tanks run the danger of blocking pipes and causing minor floods as well. If you’re planning major home modifications that will have an influence on your household’s water use, you’ll want to take your septic tank into consideration.

Septic Tank Usage When Adding a Bathroom

One of the most common reasons for updating a septic tank is the addition of a bathroom, which is sometimes located in a basement or crawlspace. This increases the value of your home while also allowing you to make greater use of your basement space. You’ll need to connect the excess wastewater to your septic tank in order for it to be properly treated. If you’re adding a basement bathroom that will be connected to a septic tank, you should examine whether your home’s septic lines are sufficiently deep.

You’ll need to think about what kind of toilet you want to put in before you start.

It is critical that you consult with your local government before making any alterations to your septic tank.

Adding a Septic Tank and Connecting to Existing Sewer Lines

The most straightforward method of increasing the capacity of your septic tank while keeping connected to current sewer lines is to simply add another septic tank. This increases the wastewater capacity of your house while also providing your septic system with extra time to process the wastewater before it is drained. For those who are planning to install an additional septic tank, first establish the best location, which should be between your existing tank and your drain field (sometimes called a septic field line).

See also:  How To Know If Your Septic Tank Is Leaking? (Correct answer)

A hole of appropriate size should be dug with an excavator.

Connect the two septic tanks together using a 4-inch pipe.

Insert the opposite end of the pipe into the outlet hole of your old septic tank once you’ve lowered your new septic tank to the ground.

The pipe should dangle approximately 2 inches over the interiors of the two tanks. Filling the hole surrounding your new septic tank with earth will then be an option for you. A vibrancy soil compactor may be used to determine the compactness of your soil.

I Have a Sump Pump—Do I Need a Sewage Pump?

“Yes, very certainly,” is the concise response to this question. Both of these pumps are similar in that they are made up of a holding tank or big canisters, as well as pumps and other components. They are also also employed as interior septic systems, but for quite different reasons than one another. Continuing reading will provide you with a better understanding of both of these systems, their significance, and how to determine when you require expert sewage pump services in Glenview, Illinois.

What a Sump Pump Is

This is a system that is meant to remove water from your basement that has accumulated as a result of floods or any other source of excess water. These pumps are essential for many houses and structures in the Glenview region, and with August being the wettest month of the year, it’s especially crucial to have one in place if you have a basement or if your home is built on a low foundation. Flooding or stagnant water may quickly cause damage to your property, materials, and the plumbing system in your home, among other things.

When it comes to sump pumps, there are two major types to consider: pedestal and submersible.

What Is A Sewage Pump?

Septic pumps, in contrast to sump pumps, are meant to remove not just water but also trash and other tiny debris from your home’s septic tank or sewage system. Septic pumps are also often referred to as “sewage ejector pumps” or “sewage grinder pumps.” In light of the fact that sewage pumps are virtually always required in any building with a bathroom, you would be wise to investigate sewage pump installation if you don’t already have one in place. Sewage pumps, when professionally installed and maintained, are capable of dealing with solid and liquid waste, solid items, and heavy liquids that are flushed down the drain from your home’s plumbing.

It is possible that massive solid things will prevent the machine from channeling, in which case expert assistance will be required.

So, Do I Need a Sewage Pump?

The answer is yes if you have just finished your basement or are considering completing it—and adding a bathroom, a bar, or a laundry room—in the near future. A sewage pump, on the other hand, is not necessary if your main sewage line exits through the concrete floor, which is quite frequently the case. If, on the other hand, it escapes via an outside wall above the concrete floor, this is an essential installation—and one that we are fully prepared to complete! Reliance Plumbing SewerDrainage, Inc.

Plumbers in the North Shore and Northwest Chicago areas are available from our team of professionals. Put your trust in Reliance! Tags:Glenview,Sewage Pump Services,Sump Pump Services,Wastewater Pump Services At 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 7th, 2017, | Category:Drainage and Sewer| Type:General|

The Purpose of an Ejector Pump For a Septic System

A septic system, whether you’ve constructed one yourself or purchased one already in place, may be a confusing and overwhelming experience. Taking in all the new knowledge and learning new things will take some time. The ejector pump is one of the most important components of a septic system. Pump-up ejector systems, which are also known as ejector pumps, are used to convey waste materials when the plumbing is below that of the septic tank. For example, when the plumbing is below the level of a bathroom in the basement of a home.

  1. It takes the place of gravity.
  2. Because the restrooms underneath the tank are unable to accomplish this, they require some assistance.
  3. Installing a new ejector pump will cost around $300-$800, and it will last for an average of 7-10 years.
  4. A sump pump is not the same as a sump pump.
  5. In no way, shape, or form is this true.
  6. In order to transport wastewater, ejector pumps must be installed in a direct connection with your septic system.
  7. Considering that ejector pumps are responsible for transporting wastewater from your basement bathrooms to your septic system, their failure may be highly unpleasant and unclean.
  8. Pumps that remove wastewater from your basement bathroom are an essential component of your septic system.

Signs You Have A Septic Tank Problem

When you think of plumbing problems that might occur in your house, you generally think of a leaking faucet, a blocked drain, a running toilet, or a lack of hot water. But there are many more types of plumbing problems that can occur. While all of these concerns are undoubtedly bothersome, you’re probably overlooking a vital component that has the potential to have a significant impact on your house – your septic system. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be dealing with a septic tank problem.

Gurgling Water

When you flush your toilet or pour water down a drain, do you hear the sound of water gurgling as it passes through it?

When water moves through air pockets in a blocked septic tank, it produces the noises you’ve heard before. Fortunately, you may resolve this issue by having the tank pumped to clear out the obstruction.

Awful Odors

We are all aware that it is not a good idea to open the toilet door after some members of the family have gone to the bathroom. Alternatively, if you are experiencing foul odors emanating from your toilet and drains at all hours of the day, you may be suffering from a partially clogged septic tank. The water and waste in your tank have nowhere to go, so they collect in your pipes, where their odors travel back up to your drains and stay. Gross!

Muddy Water Near Your Basement

In addition to a muddy yard caused by heavy rains, if you find constantly damp, muddy areas of grass, particularly near your home’s basement, this might be an indication of an overflowing septic tank.

Water Backup

Whether you turn on your faucet and let the water to go down the drain, check to see if the water level in your toilet begins to climb to a certain height. A blockage in your septic tank is often indicated by the fact that the water (and eventually waste) has nowhere to go but back up the other drains. Septic tank problems are nothing to be taken lightly and should be addressed as soon as possible in order to avoid larger, more costly problems. Ace Solves It All has a team of professionals who can evaluate your system and provide answers to any problems you may be experiencing.

Well & Septic

In the event that you turn on your faucet and let the water to flow down the drain, check to see whether the water level in your toilet begins to climb. When this happens, it usually means that your septic tank has backed up and the water (and eventually waste) has nowhere else to go but back up other drains. In order to avoid greater, messier problems, septic tank problems must not be ignored and must be addressed immediately. If you have a problem with your system, the professionals at Ace Solves It All can check it and provide ways to resolve it.

Pump Frequently

Every three years, a normal septic system should be examined by a professional and the tank should be pumped according to the inspector’s recommendations, at the very least (generally every 3 to 5 years). It is necessary to examine alternative systems that use electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components on a more frequent basis.

Use Water Efficiently

The average indoor water use in a normal single-family home is about 70 gallons per person per day, according to the USDA. Every year, dripping faucets can waste almost 2,000 gallons of water. Toilets that leak can waste as much as 200 gallons of water every day. The more water that is conserved in a household, the less water that enters the sewage system.

Flush Responsibly

Septic system components can be clogged and potentially damaged by materials such as dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, paper towels, and other items found in the kitchen and bathroom.

Cleaning up spilled home chemicals such as gasoline, oil, pesticides. antifreeze. and paint may put a strain on or disrupt the biological treatment taking place in the system, and it may also pollute surface waterways and groundwater.

Failure Symptoms

The most evident septic system problems are the ones that are most easily identified. Check for pooled water or muddy dirt near your septic system or in your basement before doing anything else. When you flush or do laundry, pay attention to whether your toilet or sink backs up. Over the drain field, you may also observe strips of brilliant green grass growing in patches. Additionally, when partly treated wastewater comes into touch with groundwater, septic systems are unable to function properly.

If you suspect a septic system failure, consult with a septic system specialist as well as the Mid-Michigan District Health Department.

Failure Causes

The following are some of the most common reasons of septic symptom failure:

  • Infection-related symptoms failures are frequently caused by the following reasons:

Household Toxics

Are there people in your home who use the utility sink to wipe paint rollers or flush dangerous cleansers down the toilet? Large quantities of harmful cleansers and oil-based paints should not be flushed down the toilet or into your septic system. Even waste from latex paint removal should be kept to a minimum. Remove any extra paint and stain from brushes and rollers by squeezing them between several thicknesses of newspaper before washing them thoroughly. Paints and wood stains that have been left over should be sent to your local home hazardous waste disposal facility.

Household Cleaners

After tiny volumes of home cleaning chemicals have been introduced into your septic system, the bacteria in your system should be able to recover rapidly in most cases. It goes without saying that some cleaning chemicals are less harmful to your system than others. Labels can provide valuable information about the possible toxicity of particular items. When the words “Danger” or “Poison” appear on a product label, it signifies that the product is very dangerous. The word “Warning” indicates that the product is somewhat dangerous.

(“Nontoxic” and “Septic Safe” are marketing words coined by advertisers to promote their products.) Regardless of the kind of product, follow the label directions to the letter and use just the amounts specified on the label to reduce the quantity of waste released into your septic system.

Hot Tubs

Hot baths are an excellent way to unwind. It is unfortunate that your septic system was not prepared to manage the massive amounts of water that came from your hot tub. As a result of emptying hot tub water into your septic system, sediments in the tank are stirred and forced out into the drain field, where they cause the system to clog and fail. Draining your hot tub into a septic system or across a drain field might cause the system to become overburdened.

Instead, drain cooled hot tub water into turf or planted areas that are at least 100 feet away from the septic tank and drain field, and in line with local laws and ordinances. When it comes to emptying your swimming pool, exercise the same prudence.

Water Purification Systems

It is not uncommon for freshwater purification equipment, such as water softeners, to pump water into the septic system without the homeowner’s knowledge. A single household can add hundreds of gallons of water to the septic tank each day, agitating the sediments and creating excess discharge to the drain field. Consult with your licensed plumbing professional about other route options for freshwater treatment systems of this nature.

Garbage Disposals

Avoiding the usage of a trash disposal can limit the amount of grease and sediments that enter the septic tank, hence reducing the likelihood of a clogged drain field forming. A trash disposal is a device that grinds up kitchen wastes and suspends them in water before discharging the combination into a septic tank. Some of the materials are broken down by bacterial action once they reach the septic tank, but the vast majority of the grindings must be flushed out of the tank when they reach there.

Quick Links

  • Homeowner’s Guide
  • The Environmental Protection Agency’s Septic Smart Program
  • The National Association of Wastewater Transporters
  • And the Rural Community Assistance Program

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