A Look At Getting A New Septic System Installation

If your old concrete septic tank is cracked and past its useful life, it's time to get a new tank installed before your old one contaminates your yard. You'll need to work with your city to get the necessary permits, to make sure your new tank goes in an approved location, and that you buy an approved tank. Here are some things about septic system installations you should know.

Choosing The New Tank

Fiberglass and plastic tanks are good options if they're allowed in your area. Since these aren't as heavy as concrete tanks, they have the potential to pop up and float, so they aren't allowed in all locations. However, since they're lightweight, installation is easier than putting in a concrete tank. Plus, fiberglass and plastic tanks usually don't have problems with cracking like concrete does.

In addition to choosing the type of tank you need, the contractor helps you choose the size. The larger the tank, the less often it needs to be pumped out. The size is usually determined by the number of bathrooms in your home and whether you have a garbage disposal or not.

Removing The Old Tank

Your septic system installation contractor can help you decide what to do with your old tank when you get a new one. One option is to take the old tank out and have it disposed of in an approved location. The new tank can then go in the original tank pit.

Another option is to install your new tank in a new location. If you do this, the old tank has to be decommissioned according to local laws. This needs to be done for safety reasons so no one falls in the old tank. You could have the contractor remove the old tank and fill up the hole to eliminate the safety hazard.

Attaching The Tank To The Drains And Drainfield

Your septic system contractor also has to determine if the old drainfield is treating wastewater like it should. If the field is clogged or has other problems, you may need to connect the new tank to a new field if the old field can't be repaired. This would require new drains and a new distribution box.

Excavating Your Yard

Plan on having your yard dug up for your septic system installation even if you use some of the old parts. The contractor has to dig out your old tank, and then they may need to enlarge the hole. If you're installing a tank for the first time, they'll need to dig a pit large enough to hold the tank.

The contractor also needs trenches for installing the drain system, so your yard will be impacted quite a bit. Fortunately, the grass will grow back quickly, and then your new system will be out of sight.

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