Where To Dig For Septic Tank? (Solution found)

• The best place to build a residential septic system is the backyard, underneath the garage, or any side adjacent to a street. Selecting the location before you start digging the hole for the septic systemis a vital step in the process.

Where is the best location for a septic tank?

Northwest is the best direction for installing a septic tank. It doesn’t matter if your house is east or west-facing, as the direction of your house does not take into account the position of the septic tank. Therefore, septic tank location as per Vastu must always be in the northwest part of your home.

How deep should a septic tank be in the ground?

The general rule of thumb is that most septic tanks can be buried anywhere from four inches to four feet underground.

How much does it cost to put in a septic tank Australia?

The septic tank price in Australia can vary depending on the size of the home and the location. The average septic tank cost for a conventional system with absorption trenches for a four-bedroom home is between $11,000 and $13,000, with desludging every three to five years.

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.

How far away from the house should a septic tank be?

Septic tanks are required to be at least 5 feet from the house, although most are between 10 and 25 feet away.

Can a mound system be put anywhere?

It costs a great deal of money to install these systems, but they can be placed anywhere. A mound septic system has no container, and digging too far gets you too close to the water table. This means instead of digging down you have to dig out.

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 long do septic tanks last?

A septic system’s lifespan should be anywhere from 15 to 40 years. How long the system lasts depends on a number of factors, including construction material, soil acidity, water table, maintenance practices, and several others.

How close can you build to a septic tank Australia?

Setback distances apply for septic system installation where existing farm dams and surface waters are to be considered when designing the layout of the proposed system. 1 Farm Dams – Minimum setback of 60 metres. 2 6 metres on the upslope of any building. 3 3 metres on the down slope of any building.

What is the cheapest septic system?

Conventional septic system These conventional septic systems are usually the most affordable, with an average cost of around $3,000.

What is the best septic system in Australia?

AERATED WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS (AWTS) AWTS are fast becoming the most popular choice of septic system used throughout New South Wales, ACT and Victoria. Garden Master septic systems are AWTS and are the systems that we recommend.

Are septic tanks still legal?

Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

What can I use instead of a septic tank?

Alternative Septic Systems

• Raised Bed (Mound) Septic Tank Systems. A raised bed drain field (sometimes called a mound) is just like what it sounds.
• Aerobic Treatment Systems (ATS) Aerobic systems are basically a small scale sewage treatment system.
• Waterless Systems.

What is the alternative to a septic tank?

Mound systems work well as alternatives to septic tanks when the soil around your home or building is too dense or too shallow or when the water table is too high. Although they are more expensive and require more maintenance than conventional systems, mound systems are a common alternative.

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

The fact that one of the largest and most visible elements of your whole plumbing system is simultaneously one of the most difficult to locate may seem impossible to believe, but when your property is served by a septic system, this is exactly true! There’s a solid reason for this: septic tanks are huge, unattractive, smell unpleasant, 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 area on your property and hides what would otherwise be a blight on your neighborhood.

You may identify your septic system using this blog, which eliminates the need for any time-consuming, labor-intensive digging.

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.

Septic tank covers are often located at or slightly below ground level, and they are not usually visible to the human eye due to their construction.

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.

• 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 or excavation. Most of the time, a septic tank may be identified by a little dip or slope on your land that can’t be explained by anything else. Due to the fact that the hole that your builders excavated for your septic tank may not have been exactly the proper size, they proceeded to install the tank anyhow. Why? Something like this is not unheard of. If the hole was too small, the top of the tank will protrude above ground level, and the rest of the tank will be filled with extra dirt, resulting in a little mound on your land that is usually covered with grass, soil, or other natural vegetation. When there is a minor divot or depression, it indicates that the hole was too large and that your builders simply did not fill the depression to level the hole out. During rainstorms, this is often a location that becomes highly wet or even floods. The likelihood of your septic tank being discovered in a few specific locations is quite high. You will almost certainly not locate your septic tank in any of the following locations, either because of code issues or just because it doesn’t make sense:

5. Inspect Your Yard

In certain cases, a thorough check of your yard will assist you in finding your septic tank much more quickly.Some of the key items to look for in your yard are as follows:

• 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. It is important to determine where this line exits your property and in which direction it is moving, as it often travels 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 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!

Locating and Digging

For an extra cost, our highly trained specialists will find the Septic Tank lids for you. When excavation for your Septic Tank Lids is necessary, heavy equipment and specific precautions must be taken to safeguard your property and the surrounding area. When it comes to excavation of your Septic Tank Lids, our skilled Septic System Pumping and Repair Service personnel will do an excellent job, whether it is done manually or with a machine. Lids on septic tanks may be located electronically – It may be essential to find the Septic Tank lids electronically in some situations.

• The use of an electronic locator should only be done as a last option.
• For those who have opted to find and dig up the lids to their Septic Tank prior to their scheduled appointment, the accompanying information, photographs & diagrams may be useful in deciding where to begin digging if you do not already have risers (Highly Recommended) put on your tank lids.
• This will be decided by the age of your Septic System, the manufacturer of the tank, and the firm that built the Septic System, among other factors.
• It will aid you in finding the general placement of the Septic Tank itself if you have an As-Built.
• (If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance.) The septic tank is typically situated roughly 5 feet away from the home, in line with the lowest bathroom or kitchen in the house.

Owner Darren McCullough has 20 years of expertise locating and digging septic tank lids, and it is as if he had X-Ray Vision to see exactly where the lid is located!

1975 and earlier (Single Compartment)

The most likely scenario is that your property was built during this time period and that the system has not been replaced. In this case, your Septic Tank will be a single compartment tank, as illustrated in the illustration below. (According to the picture below, this tank will have one main lid in the center and two smaller baffle lids on either end of the tank as depicted in the diagram below.) The main lid will be roughly 24′′ in diameter, and it will be either square or circular in shape.

Uncovering the baffle lids, as well as the main lid, will allow us to thoroughly clean the input and examine the condition of the outflow pipework.

1975 – 1980 to Present (Two Compartment)

Assuming your property was constructed around this time period, your Septic Tank is most likely a 2 compartment tank with a least of two 24′′ lids that must be opened in order to drain the tank. As shown in the first diagram below, this type of Septic Tank can have two main 24′′ lids that include baffle access within the big lids and a center crossover lid (crossover is not required to service the tank), while in the second diagram below, the tank will have two main 24′′ lids and two smaller Baffle lids at either end of the tank directly above the inlet and outlet baffles.

Because riser lids can be below the surface, you will be looking for fiberglass lids below the surface like the first and second pictures below.

1990 to Present (Presure Distribution System – Two Compartment Tank with Pump Tank)

Using a Pressure Distribution System, this tank will have only one primary lid, which will be positioned in the center of the vessel. If you are having your standard three-year Septic Tank Pumping Service performed, it is NOT essential to pump the pump tank, but it is important to pump the pump tank after every other Septic Tank Pumping service. It is necessary to find and uncover the Pump Tank if you are having a Real Estate Sale Inspection performed. When we are certifying a septic system for sale, we must pump out and examine the pump tank and effluent pump, among other things.

Because this Pressure System is elevated to the surface, digging is not required; nevertheless, if they were not, it would be difficult to locate the locations of all three lids.

We are here to assist you.

Give us a call Today…. 425-861-6978

Using a Pressure Distribution System, this tank will have only one primary lid, which will be positioned in the middle of the tank. You do not need to pump the pump tank if you are having your standard 3 year Septic Tank Pumping Service performed; however, you should pump the tank after every other Septic Tank Pumping service. It is necessary to find and expose the Pump Tank if you are having a Real Estate Sale InspectionPumping performed. This step is required when we are certifying a septic system for sale in order to pump out and inspect the pump tank and effluent pump.

Due to the fact that this Pressure System is elevated to the surface, digging is not required; nevertheless, if they were not, it would be difficult to locate the locations of all three lids.

If you need assistance, please contact us. We ask that you contact and arrange Darren to locate and excavate the Septic Tank lids on your behalf if you are unable to locate your Septic Tank lids before your scheduled appointment.

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 sewage 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.

Call A Professional

The majority of septic tanks are rectangular in shape and measure around 5 feet by 8 feet in dimensions. Examine the tank’s circumference to determine its edges and draw a rectangle around them. In the center of the rectangle will be a single concrete lid measuring 24 inches in diameter, which was erected before to 1975. If the tank was built after 1975, it will have two caps made of fiberglass or polyethylene, positioned at the ends of the rectangle and centered in the middle of each compartment.

It should be possible to uncover the lid or lids by digging with a shovel in specific spots, depending on how long the tank has been in use.

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 store it with your other important papers.

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 roughly two feet in diameter during your quest. 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.

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 take you in the direction of your septic system, which is what we propose. 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 hold the lid closed, you may also use a metal detector to find them.

The majority of lids are buried up to a foot deep, but some lids might be buried as deep as four feet in extreme cases! In some instances, a professional with specialized locating equipment may be required.

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.

Dig (Excavate) to Locate Septic Tank or Drainfield

• POSTPONE a QUESTION or COMMENTabout digging to locate a septic tank, drainfield, D-box, or septic pipe, or about any other septic system components
• POSTPONE a QUESTION or COMMENTabout septic system components

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. The following are the times when it is necessary to dig to locate the septic system, tank or drainfield, soakaway beds or pipes, or D-box: We’d like not to have to dig up the entire yard in order to locate the septic tank or other septic components, wouldn’t you say? Septic system location videos are included with this article to demonstrate how to locate the leach field or drainfield component of a septic system, as well as situations in which digging or exploratory excavation is required and warranted.

(Septic drain fields are sometimes referred to as soil absorption systems or seepage beds in some circles.) For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page.

How to use Excavating to find Drainfield TrenchesTheir Condition

Part 7 of A Guide to Locating the Drainfield Based on the above-mentioned site observations, a homeowner could decide to drill a test hole in an area where he or she believes a leach line is located. The depth of a leach line may vary depending on the site circumstances, but it is typically 24″ or so. Alternatively, a septic contractor can just build a trench across the property, assuming that the soil cut will intersect the buried line. Digging over the whole property may be sensible only if we already know that the system has to be replaced, because the backhoe is likely to destroy any hidden piping it “discovers” when it is digging across the entire property.

Why we Like Digging by Hand First and Excavating by Backhoe Second

Equipment is preferred over shovels for digging on construction sites because it is faster, physically easier (using a machine is easier than wielding a shovel), and most importantly, it is more profitable.

Undoubtedly, in many situations, a backhoe is the only feasible option for digging. However, wherever feasible, we prefer to dig by hand before using a machine. When hunting for septic components, hand excavation causes the least amount of harm to a construction site because:

• Hand excavation causes the least amount of damage to the site, yard, plants, and other structures. Hand excavation can begin gradually, directly next to the building wall, without the need to wait for the arrival of heavy equipment
• Hand excavation can be completed by a motivated owner or her companions (but first read about SEPTICCESSPOOL SAFETY)
• Hand excavation helps to prevent harming steel septic tanks and covers (but first read about SEPTICCESSPOOL SAFETY)
• It also saves time. As a result, hand excavation (or a cautious backhoe operator) will not result in a freshly “explored” but now completely ruined septic system, which means you will not be able to utilize the building plumbing and will be compelled to accept whatever repair quote the contractor gives. (Trying to obtain septic repair cost estimates prior to any excavation is difficult since the contractor understands that there are too many unknowns – but insist on upper fair cost boundaries)

Where to Excavate to Look for Septic or Sewer Components

However, at some point, it becomes necessary to excavate, either because your hand digging proved fruitless or because you’ve discovered that extensive exploration and septic repair are likely required. An experienced excavation contractor usually has a very good sense of where another excavator would have excavated to locate a drainfield trench, D-box, or other septic system component, and can make educated guesses. Walking around the site and ruling in or out potential excavation sites can help to drastically minimize the amount of excavation required.

How to Think First and Dig Second – Narrowing the Search for the Drainfield

Before you dig, read the sections VISUAL CLUES LOCATE THE SEPTIC TANK, Areas Not Likely, and Visual Clues to Location for further information on how to limit down your search for septic components before you dig.

Septic Excavation Case Illustrated – step by step excavation to replace a sewer line

For further information on limiting down your search for septic components before you dig, seeVISUAL CLUES LOCATE THE SEPTIC TANK, AREAS NOT LIKELY, and Visual Clues to Location.

Digging up a Failed Drainfield

Of course, if the leach field is already in need of repair, it is likely that the end of a leach line may be identified by observing where effluent is leaking to the surface of the ground.

Septic Drainfield Location Articles

• If the leach field is already in need of replacement, it is likely that the end of a leach line may be identified by observing where effluent is leaking to the surface.

• LOCATION OF THE DRAINFIELD PIPE, EXACT
• EXCAVATE TO LOCATE THE DRAINFIELD
• REASONS FOR LOCATION OF THE DRAINFIELD
• Recordings to LOCATE the DRAINFIELD
• SURPRISING DRAINFIELD LOCATIONS
• UNLIKELY DRAINFIELD LOCATIONS
• VISUAL CLUES LOCATE the DRAINFIELD
• VISUAL CLUES LOCATE the SEPTIC TANK

• SERVING SEPTIC DRAINFIELDS
• SEPTIC DRAINFIELD SIZE
• SEPTIC DRAINFIELD Shape
• SEPTIC DRAWINGS
• SEPTIC DRAINFIELD RESTORERS

. Continue reading atREASONS to FIND THE DRAINFIELD, or choose a topic from the closely-related articles listed below, or see the completeARTICLE INDEX. Alternatively, read SEPTIC TANK, HOW TO FIND for further information on locating the septic tank, chamber, drywell, or seepage pit. LOCATION OF THE SEPTIC DRAINFIELD- HOUSE Inspection of septic drainfields at the residence Where to Look for the Septic Tank. Visit SEPTIC VIDEOS for more information on septic system location and maintenance.

Suggested citation for this web page

EXCAVATE in order to LOCATED DRAINFIELDatInspection An online encyclopedia of building environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, and issue preventive information is available at Apedia.com. Alternatively, have a look at this.

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES:ARTICLE INDEX to SEPTIC SYSTEMS

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How to Locate a Septic Tank

A surprising number of homeowners have had to figure out how to find the location of a septic tank on their premises. If you’re purchasing a home with a septic system or discover that your property’s tank hasn’t been maintained in years, you’ll want to know where the tank is located because all septic tanks must be pumped at some point in time. In the course of a real estate transaction, the property owners or real estate agent may be aware of the location of the tank. Inquire about the “as-built,” which is a schematic of the septic system and the specifics of its installation.

Unfortunately, locating the septic tank may not be as simple as it appears.

In other cases, not filing the as-built with the local health department was not required. Because septic system permits have only been needed in Oregon since 1972, you may have to depend on visual indicators to determine whether your system is working properly.

1.Follow the Outgoing Sewer Pipe

Look for the four-inch sewage pipe that runs through the structure and the location where it exits the building in the basement or crawl space. Locate the location outside the building where the pipe exits the building or the location of an access cover over the pipe. It is required that septic tanks be at least five feet away from the structure, although they are usually between 10 and 25 feet away. You may follow the pipe all the way to the tank using a metal probe. It is important to note that sewage lines may curve and run around the corner of a building rather than following a straight path to the holding tank.

2.Search for Septic Tank Risers and Lids

Depending on their age, septic tanks are either one- or two-compartment structures. Each compartment has a cover, with two additional lids for dual-compartment tanks that were added later. If the tank includes an access point known as a riser, the lid may be readily visible from outside. Look for round, plastic discs that are about a foot or two in diameter. Due to the fact that the lids might be flush with the ground or just a few inches above it, they can get overrun with grass and other plants over time.

Tanks without risers are likewise equipped with lids, however they are located underground.

3.Find the Drain Field First

In the absence of a riser and lid, search for indicators of a drain field, such as an area of grass that grows more quickly or more slowly than the rest of the yard, grass that is a different color from the rest of the yard, or areas where snow melts more quickly than in other parts of the yard. Spots of high or low ground in the yard might possibly indicate the presence of a subterranean tank or drain field. You will be able to discover the tank if you probe these regions.

Reasons to Hire a Contractor for Help

Attempting to locate a septic tank on your own can be risky, and in some cases, lethal, if the septic system is old and in danger of collapse. In the event that you fall into a cesspool, dry well, or septic tank, you will die. Removing septic tank lids on your own might potentially put you at risk of contracting bacterial or virus diseases. If you detect any of the following issues, please contact a contractor to assist you in locating or inspecting your septic tank:

• In certain cases, it might be fatal to attempt to locate a septic tank on one’s own if the system is old and in risk of collapse. Falls into cesspools, dry wells, and septic tanks have the potential to kill the victim. It is also possible to get bacterial or viral diseases while removing septic tank lids. If you detect any of the following symptoms, you should contact a contractor to assist you in locating or inspecting your septic tank.

Even though you may be ashamed about forgetting where your septic tank is, it is a very frequent problem among homeowners. A contractor may assist you in locating it, and he or she may do it as part of the pumping service. If you need assistance locating your tank or if you have any other questions, please contact us at 503-630-7802. We are available to assist you!

Don’t Dig Around a Septic Tank Until You Talk to a Professional

Certain considerations must be taken into consideration if you have a septic system on your property. One of the most fundamental laws of septic tank ownership is that you should never dig around your system. Even if you know the precise position of your tank, you may be lacking important information such as the location of the pipes or other components that are connected to it. Before you embark on any landscaping or construction project on your home, you should always speak with a professional.

• While landscaping, use extreme caution if you have a septic system on your property.
• Certain shrubs should be avoided, particularly bushes with invasive root systems, according to the experts.
• Remove any trees that are near your septic tank that you feel are causing an issue.
• Tree roots can be difficult to remove when you don’t know where they came from or where they are going.
• Some of your pipes may not be located where you expect them to beYour septic system is built to accommodate the size of your house.
• There are a number of components that are also positioned below ground level.
• Before beginning any digging, for whatever reason, it is critical to contact with a specialist who is familiar with the structure of your system.

Do you have a project that requires excavating on your property? The specialists at Affordable Pumping Services are ready to advise you based on your septic system. Give us a call right now!

Dig the Correct Cover

Here are a few pointers to assist you in locating and digging the proper cover for your septic tank:

• Locate the 4′′ sewage pipe that runs from your toilet and shower to the exterior wall of your home. It should be visible. Most of the time, your tank is 8 to 15 feet from the place where the sewer pipe exits
• Perhaps you have seen an area outdoors where snow melts each winter
• Most of the time, this location is within the 8 to 15-foot range. This is an excellent place to begin. To identify the four corners of the tank, probe the ground with an abar and mark the locations. A septic tank measures roughly 8 feet long by 5 feet broad and is covered with three different types of coverings. Some tanks, on the other hand, are longer and made of plastic, making them more difficult to spot. Our company, Maine SepticPumping, requests that you find and excavate the center cover in order for us to thoroughly clean and remove any sediments from your tank. If you have a septic system that includes a pump, you should exercise caution. Unground electrical wire will be present, and it is possible that it could pose a hazard. You should also find and dig the cover for your pump chamber so that it can be pumped at the time of our service
• If you are experiencing sluggish drains and the digging is relatively simple, you can try excavating all of the tank covers. All of the covers being removed would allow us to inspect your input region and eliminate any sediments that may be blocking the passage of the water. This also allows us to view your outlet baffle clearly, allowing us to ensure that it is secure. If you have any questions when trying to locate your tank, please contact our office. MaineSepticPumping can also assist you in locating and digging your cover.

How to locate your septic tank and your drainfield

Septic systems on-site are used for accepting and treating wastewater in homes that are not linked to the municipal wastewater management system. A septic system is comprised of three components: a septic tank, a drain field, and piping. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to properly operate and maintain your septic system in order to avoid system failure. For example, depending on the legislation in your area, you may be compelled to pump it on a regular basis. It is impossible to perform maintenance operations, however, if you do not know where the tank is located.

Steps to follow to locate your septic tank and drain field

The contractor that designed and constructed the septic tank on your property should have submitted an as-built diagram with the local health authority before starting work on the project. In the event that you have the contractor’s contact information, you can ask them for a schematic, which you can then use to pinpoint the location of your septic tank. If you do not have a copy of the schematic, you can request one from the local authorities. Depending on whether the installed system included electrical components, the schematic may be available at the regional building department offices.

• If you are unable to locate the tank using this diagram, you will need to do more research on the land in order to determine its position.
• This pipe is commonly found in the basement of a home, and it is a 4″ black pipe with a cleanout at the bottom.
• Simply look for possible access coverings or a structure that might be concealing it.
• These pumps are used to remove waste from the building.
• It is supposed to be connected to the sewage output pipe.
• As soon as you’ve discovered the sewer outlet in your basement, you may use it to figure out where the sewer line departs your home through an outside wall.
• As a result, it is probable that the tank will be positioned around the corner from the building.

Tips for locating your septic tank

Using the sewer outlet in your basement as a guide, you may establish where the sewer line departs your home through an outside wall. The septic tank will be located a few meters away from the home, and the outflow pipe may be at an angle of 30 or 45 degrees to the ground.

As a result, it is conceivable that the tank will be positioned around the corner from where the tank is currently. Start from the outlet and make your way around the house in a circle until you find the septic tank.

• It may be possible to discover the septic tank lid underneath using a metal detector if it is buried. Prevent wearing footwear that contains steel or any other metal in order to avoid interfering with the readings of the detector
• Instead, you can use a flushable transmitter that is flushed down the toilet and then tracked with a receiver. When it comes to septic tanks, the strongest signal will be seen close to the intake region of the tank.

It may be possible to discover the septic tank lid underground using a metal detector. Steel or any other metal-containing footwear should not be worn while using the detector in order to prevent interfering with the readings. A flushable transmitter may be used to track a transmitter that has been flushed down the toilet and then tracked with a receiver. When it comes to septic tanks, the most powerful signal will be seen in the inlet region of the tank.

Inspecting the tank

It is critical to thoroughly inspect and evaluate your septic tank and its contents when it has been identified. First and foremost, you may unscrew the lid to inspect the scum and sludge layer beneath it. In addition, the use of tracer dye tablets allows you to check the septic tank without having to dig it up. If you use tracer dye pills, all you have to do is flush them down the toilet and wait for a maximum of two days. Because of the way the tablets dissolve in water, if there is a problem with the septic system, you will see that the leach field has a glowing green hue surrounding it.

It is possible that someone will fall into the tank, causing significant damage or possibly death.

Conclusion

It is critical to thoroughly inspect and evaluate your septic tank and its contents when it has been found. You may first unscrew the cover to inspect the scum and sludge deposit on the inside of the drain pipe. With the use of tracer dye tablets, you may also do a non-invasive inspection of your septic tank. If you use tracer dye pills, all you have to do is flush them down the toilet and wait for a maximum of 2 days. Because of the way the tablets dissolve in water, if there is a problem with the septic system, you will see that the leach field is a vivid green hue in the surrounding area.

It is possible that someone will fall into the tank, causing major harm or perhaps death to themselves.

What you should expect when your septic tank needs pumping

The following are general recommendations: It is advised that you pump your septic tank every two to three years. The frequency with which you pump is determined by the volume of water you utilize. Generally speaking, the more individuals that use your septic system, the greater the increase in water flow. As a result, your septic tank will fill up more quickly, necessitating more regular pumping. It is likely that the septic tank will need to be pumped more frequently than every two to three years.

Choosing a certified pumper

We recommend that you identify your septic tank before contacting a pumping company.

Here is a list of questions you should ask the pumper about their services that we recommend you ask:

1. What is the approximate cost of the pump-out
2. And Will additional gallons be charged if the septic tank has a capacity more than 1,000 gallons? Is it included in this price the expense of excavating to expose the septic tank lid(s)
3. If not, do you charge by the foot or by the meter? How much do you charge to dig you out if you don’t have one
4. Is there a charge for dumping costs included? Was it determined that this fee includes a visual check of the septic tank’s entrance and exit baffles? Do you charge an additional fee for cleaning the filter baffle? If a tank has not been properly maintained, is there an additional price for the additional water and time necessary to pump it out? (for example, pumped on a regular basis)
5. Please specify the distance and elevation to where the Pumper’s vehicle will be stationed if you have a long distance to pump or if you will be pumping up a steep hill (for example, in your driveway or in the yard). The Pumper will decide whether or not the vehicle is capable of providing this sort of service. Is pumping the pump tank a frequent component of your routine maintenance? What is the cost of providing this service? It is recommended that a pump tank be pumped in addition to the septic tank, cleaned with water, and then dried with a blow dryer. If the pump tank is extremely full, you may be subject to an additional price.

Locating the septic tank

Once you’ve decided on a Pumper, you’ll need to locate the septic tank on your property. Most Pumpers will charge you for the time it takes to locate the tank and open the septic tank lid (s). You can perform the necessary work to expose the septic tank lid(s) prior to the arrival of the Pumper. In order to make septic tank pumping and inspection trips easier and less time-consuming, the Ohio Department of Public Health advises that you install “risers.” With locking gas tight lids linked to both the tank and the riser and access raised to the surface, there is no digging required every time the septic tank needs to be pumped.

The majority of septic system pumpers will be able to do this service for you.

Both compartments must be examined and pumped in order to meet the requirements.

The location of your septic tank will be straightforward if you have an as-built (a map of your septic system) for your system.

The following talents will be required by you or your Pumper if an as-built is not available: investigation

• If there is a crawl space, you may be able to locate the tank by determining where the plumbing exits the foundation wall and then using a probing bar to locate it. If you have a fiberglass or polyethylene tank, a probe bar is not suggested unless extreme caution is exercised when using the probe bar. Probing will only be effective if the tank is not more than 1 to 2 feet below the surface of the ground
• If there is no crawl space available, you may occasionally discover the tank by looking for the plumbing vents in the roof. A person who is walking behind the home and coming from a restroom can find themselves at the exit point of the sewage line that connects to the septic tank

Using an electronic detecting equipment may be essential if none of the above mentioned approaches prove successful. Some rental services contain a transmitter that may be flushed down the toilet and is detected by a receiving unit, which can be found in some rental services. In certain cases, drainfield location is the specialty of septic system contractors. See a list of septic system installers who are certified. As long as the tank is exposed, sketch a map depicting the location of the septic tank lid(s) in relation to the home and make a copy of the map for your records.

Pumping the septic tank

Before the Pumper begins the process of pumping out the tank, you may request that he measure the thickness of the scum and sludge layer layers on the inside of the tank. Using this method, you can determine the pace at which the particles collect in the tank, which will assist you in determining when it is necessary to have the septic tank pumped again. Pumping frequency will be in the range of 2 to 3 years for the vast majority of families. It doesn’t matter how often you pump your septic system; frequent inspections will provide you peace of mind that everything is in working order inside those tanks.

Concerning the inspection of your septic system. The septic tank Pumper should present you with a receipt that details the services that were done to your tank. This receipt should contain the following information:

• The company’s name, address, and phone number
• Pumper’s certification number
• Number of gallons that were pumped in an approximate manner the number of compartments that have been pumped In good working order, the tank baffles In-tact condition of the septic tank
• Provide specifics on any work performed on baffles or access lids. This information should be included on the pump receipt if the scum and sludge layers were measured. Any work done on the septic tank or pump tank should be documented. Any additional service work that is completed

Sultan Pumper Professional Septic Service

(360) 794-9184Toll Free (800) 606-5645Licensed, BondedInsured Table of ContentsClick on any title to skip to that topic:What is an onsite septic tank system?Aseptic tank system (also called an on-site sewage system) is a disposal system for water-carried household wastes from the kitchen, bathroom and laundry.The system provides initial treatment of these wastes before they are further purified by the filtering action of the soil.The septic tank and the drainfield are the system’s two main components.The septic tank is a large underground box, usually concrete, which collects and holds all of the household wastes.It stores these wastes for two to three days, so that the heavy suspended materials such as feces, food residues and soils sink to the bottom to be decomposed by bacteria into sludge.Lighter materials such as grease and paper products float to the top and form a scum, which is trapped in the tank by baffles.The scum also decomposes in time.After being partially purified, the wastewater flows from the septic tank into the drainfield.At that point the waste water is called “effluent.”The drainfield is a network of perforated pipes buried underground in gravel trenches.The effluent flows through the pipes out the holes and into a large area of soil.The soil is an excellent filter, removing the remaining suspended substances, pollutants and bacteria from the effluent.A small amount of effluent taken up by grass and any nearby plants and trees is evaporated.How do septic systems work?Septic System Anatomy – askthebuilderSeptic inspections, show me how videoDirty Jobs Septic Tank TechnicianWhat type of septic system do you have?Below are examples of several common types of septic systems.To find out which type of system you have, please click on the button labeled “As-built” at the top of this page,Select the applicable county andfollow the directions provided on each website.What can you do to take care of an onsite septic tank system?We have all heard stories about septic tank systems that have worked well for many years without any maintenance or care.Unfortunately, these are the exception.Most septic tank systems require proper care if they are to work well for a long time.Proper care includes:§Do not flush cleaning, baby wipe, wet wipes and/or any trash into your septic tank.§Knowing where your septic tank and drainfield are located.§Pumping your septic tank every 2 ½ to 3 years.§Practicing water conservation.§Diverting runoff from your drainfield.§Not constructing anything over your septic tank and/or drainfield.§Not parking or driving cars over your drainfield.§Don’t plant trees and shrubs over your septic tank and/or drainfield.§Being careful what you flush into your septic tank.§Inspecting your system every year.§Do not use powdered laundry soap.Following the items listed above can significantly extend the life of your septic tank system!These steps are not difficult; if you do them regularly you can avoid the expense and inconvenience of repairing a system that has broken down prematurely.·Be careful what you flush into your septic tank.oDon’t flush feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, cleaning wipes, dental floss, oil, grease, rags, paper towels, cigarette butts or other materials not intended to be handled by your septic tank.They do not decompose well and can clog the system or increase the frequency of pumping.Repairing a clogged septic tank system can be costly.Below is an example of a tank filled with wipes that had to be cleaned out by hand.Check out these articles on the impact of using cleaning wipesClick Here for the NY times articleClick Here for cleaning wipe disaster article·Know where your septic tank and drainfield are located.oDo you know where your septic tank system is located?You should, because when you need to have your tank pumped or want to work on your house or yard, you’ll need to know where the system is located.You must know where your drainfield is if you want to protect it from accidental damage caused by landscaping, house construction or vehicle parking.·Pumpyour septic tank every 2 ½ to 3 years.oYou need to pump your septic tank periodically to remove accumulated sludge and scum.Otherwise, they will build up and be washed into the drainfield.Particles can then clog the drainfield pipes and soil, requiring expensive repairs.oGenerally tanks should be pumped every 2 ½ to 3 years, although longer intervals may be satisfactory.The frequency depends partly on your household habits.Use of a garbage disposer in the kitchen, for example has a dramatic effect on the amount of sludge and scum produced.If you have a garbage disposer avoid using it, because it will significantly increase the need for pumping.oPumping a septic tank requires digging a hole over the tank so that the manhole to the tank can be opened.The manhole is usually 6 inches to 3 feet below the ground.Once the manhole is uncovered and opened, the contents of the tank, called “septage,” are pumped into a truck for disposal at an approved facility.oThe septic tank must not be washed or disinfected after pumping.In fact, you should leave a small amount of sludge in the tank to help decompose new wastes.Ten percent of the original amount is about right.Practice water conservation.oRemember, the drainfield’s soil eventually has to absorb all the water that goes into the septic tank.The less water you use and put into the septic tank, the less the soil has to absorb.And in our frequently wet weather, the soil cannot absorb an endless supply of water.oThe more water that goes into the septic tank, the faster wastes will be moved along through the system.For the system to work effectively, about 2 or 3 days are needed for solids to settle out of the wastewater and for bacteria to begin treating and decomposing wastes.Therefore, you should conserve water to help your septic tank system function efficiently.That means lowering the total amount of water used and timing when you do use water.oWater conservation can take many forms – using flow restrictors in the shower, low water-use washing machines, toilets and dishwashers; not letting household water run excessively; and quick repair of leaking or dripping faucets and fixtures.If you develop good water use habits, you can improve the functioning of your septic tank system.·Divert runoff from your drainfield.oSoil in the drainfield area must absorb effluent from the septic tank and drainfield to complete waste treatment.If this soil is too wet, it cannot absorb the effluent to filter and purify the wastewater properly.oTherefore, avoid saturating this soil; point gutter downspouts away from the drainfield area.Also, if you have a patio, driveway or other solid surface nearby, make sure the water runoff is diverted away from the drainfield area.oDrainfield’s are constructed to accommodate wet soil during rainy weather, but additional water may prevent effluent from being absorbed and filtered properly.Effluent may then flow to the surface causing soggy ground, often with foul odors.In drier weather, lush, green grass may grow where effluent is surfacing – often contrasted with drier grass nearby.·Don’t construct anything over your septic tank and/or drainfield.oDon’t construct patios, carports, sidewalks, additions to the house and landscaping with plastic underlay to prevent weeds over a septic tank or drainfield.They can compact the soil and prevent it from absorbing and filtering effluent.It can also reduce effluent evaporation and certainly hinder digging up the system for routine pumping, inspection or repair.Grass is the best cover for a septic tank and drainfield.·Don’t park or drive cars over your drainfield.oCars, trucks, or other vehicles can compact the soil and reduce its ability to treat effluent from the septic tank.Additionally, driving or parking cars over the drainfield may compress drainfield pipes or break them, which can prevent the drainfield from operating properly.If the effluent cannot flow out of the tank into the drainfield pipes, it can back up into the house or be forced to the surface of the ground in your yard.·Don’t plant trees and shrubs over your septic tank and/or drainfield.oRoots from shrubbery and trees can clog or break drainfield pipes.Shrubs and trees also make access to the septic tank and drainfield difficult for pumping, inspection or repair.Lawn or low natural plants are an ideal ground cover over a septic tank system.It will also help remove moisture from the soil by evaporation.·Inspect your system every year.oA septic tank system, like a car or any other piece of equipment, will last longer and function better with proper operation and regular maintenance.Proper operation includes conserving water, diverting runoff and not flushing non-biodegradable materials.Good maintenance steps include regular pumping and yearly inspections.oThis inspection should include looking carefully over the drainfield area to make sure it is functioning properly.Watch for lush green growth over the drainfield area, during the dry summer months.This growth is sometimes caused by effluent rising near the surface of the ground.Recheck these areas in the wet winter months, and if any effluent is surfacing on the ground, correct the problem immediately, as it may threaten public health and water quality.Surfacing effluent may also be accompanied by poorly draining plumbing in the home.While a number of problems may interfere with proper draining, one possible cause is a clogged or broken drainfield.oThe inspection may also include checking sludge and scum levels inside your septic tank and make sure the tank’s baffles – which help prevent solids from flowing into the drainfield – are intact.What is the purpose of a septic certification/inspection report?These reports are needed for the sale of a home, but sometimes the county will require certification/inspection reports for businesses such as day care facilities, restaurants, etc.Our technicians check the septic system from the inlet pipe to the drainfield and document how the system is operating at the time of inspection.This report is not a warranty or a guarantee of how the system will perform in the future, but rather a full disclosure to all parties of how the system is operating on the date of inspection.How do you locate and dig your septic tank lid(s)?oWarning – – when locating your lid make sure you AVOID any and ALL electrical lines!Striking an electrical line may cause electrocution and could be FATAL!In addition, to electrical lines you need to be aware of all plumbing and irrigation lines in your yard.Striking a plumbing or irrigation line will result in further damages and cost.If you are not sure or do not know what you are doing, then pay the professionals at Sultan Pumper to locatedig up your lids.oFind the perimeter of the tank with a heavy digging bar/probe.Mark the edges of the tank in 4 opposing places.Use these marks to find the center of the tank (visualize a 2 foot circle in the center of the tank and dig this out).This process will be used for tanks installed prior to the 1980’s.oOnce you have located where you believe the lid to be, you will dig in a 2 – 3 foot radius removing the sod/grass and placing it to one side of the hole (so you can put the sod back and it will look nice afterwards).Now proceed to dig and place your dirt from your hole in a neat pile opposite your sod (a piece of plastic or tarp is recommended to make easier to refill the hole).oMake sure to mark the areas above the lids for future servicing or install risers to bring your lids to the surface if your dig is more than 2 feet from the surface.Uncovered Septic Tank LidsSeptic Tanks with a Riser SystemHow do you know when you need to have risers installed?oIf your lid is more than 2 feet below the surface, then you will need to have risers installed on your tank.If your lids are located more than 3 feet below the surface, then L I laws prohibit Sultan Pumper or any other person from hand digging further than 3 feet.Therefore an excavator and proper wall shoring will need to be used.What to do if your pump alarm is going off?oCheck your electrical panel to make sure electricity is going to your pump.Alarms will go off if there is no electricity going to the pump.oIf your pump is receiving electricity and your alarm is still going off, then call Sultan Pumper because a qualified technician will be needed to assess what is wrong with your system.It could be electrical, floats or possibly your pump has burnt out.oIf it is a burnt out pump then the tanks will need to be drained in order to replace the pump.Common misbeliefs about onsite septic tank systemsMyth:Septic tank additives are necessary to help the system operate properly.Fact:All ingredients necessary for a septic tank to function properly are naturally found in wastes.You don’t need to add chemicals, yeasts, bacteria, enzymes or other products claimed to improve a septic tank system.Some of these products may actually harm your system by allowing sludge and scum to float out into the drainfield and clog it.Myth:Bleaches, detergents and drain cleaners can harm the septic tank system.Fact:When used in normal household quantities, bleaches, detergents, drain cleaners and other household cleaning products do not harm the septic tank system.Do not use these products excessively, however as they can disturb bacteria in the septic tank that help decompose wastes.Samples of septic system disasters:Are septic demons bothering you?!Are you having septic nightmares?The following are a few examples of septic disasters, so don’t let this happen to you.Make sure you call Sultan Pumper today to schedule an appointment.Septic system nightmarePoop GeyserWe Accept©2022 Sultan Pumper is a division of Septic Services, Inc.