- Introduction
If you are building a new home in a rural area or just want to upgrade your old wastewater system, understanding septic system installation is important for homeowners to get it done right. Homes in rural or suburban areas rely on a septic system to dispose of household wastewater. Most homeowners think that installing a septic system is complicated. In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know, from the basics to every step involved in the installation.
- What Is A Septic System?
Before starting the septic system installation process, you need to know what a septic system is. It is an underground wastewater treatment system, commonly used in areas without a modern centralized sewer system.
The wastewater from showers, toilets, and sinks flows into the septic tank. With time, the solid waste settles down, oils float to the top, and the liquid flows into the drainfield. It is naturally filtered by the soil.
- A Complete Guide To Septic System Installation
A septic system installation is more than just digging a hole and burying a tank in the soil. It requires professional installation, soil testing, planning, and permits. Negligence in any of these can lead to environmental damage, health issues, and costly repairs in the long run.
Let’s discuss all the steps involved in septic system installation one by one:
- Soil and Site Evaluation
This is the first and most important step in septic system installation. Before installation, a Percolation Test is performed to assess the ability of your soil to absorb water. It is done to determine what type of septic system is suitable for your property.
- Permits and System Design
Once the soil is tested and approved, a licensed septic contractor or engineer will design your septic system based on your household size, local regulations, and site features. You will also need permits from your local health or building department.
- Excavation and Tank Installation
Heavy machinery like earth movers is used to dig a large hole for the tank or drainfield. Then the septic tank, made of concrete, plastic, or fiberglass, is placed and connected to your home’s plumbing system.
- Drainfield Construction
Then, perforated pipes are laid out in the drainfield trenches and covered with soil. It allows the waste fluid to seep into the ground slowly.
- Final Inspection and Backfilling
After the complete installation process, an inspector will ensure everything is installed correctly before the system is covered. Once the inspection is complete, the soil is backfilled to make your yard smooth once again.
- Common Types Of Septic Systems
Septic systems are of different types. Your contractor will recommend the type of septic system depending on your property’s layout, soil, and local codes.
- Conventional system: It is the most common and cost-effective. It uses a gravity-fed drainfield.
- Chamber system: It is a variation of the traditional septic system using plastic chambers instead of gravel.
- Drip distribution system: Ideal for shallow soils. It delivers liquid waste slowly through tubes to the soil.
- Aerobic treatment unit: It is suitable for areas with pool soil conditions. It used oxygen to treat wastewater.
- Mound system: It is a raised drainfield system, installed in properties with shallow soil and high water tables.
- The Cost Of A Complete Septic System Installation
The cost of installing a septic system depends on various factors, including location, local regulations, type of septic system, soil conditions, labor, and the type of material used. On average, expect the cost of a new septic system to be between $5,000 and $15,000. The advanced systems can cost up to $20,000 or more.
- Maintenance Tips After Septic System Installation
Septic system installation is not a one-time job. It requires proper maintenance to extend its life and avoid costly repairs. Some maintenance tips include:
- Pump the tank every 3-5 years
- Avoid flushing non-biodegradable material like paper towels, wipes, and grease.
- Do not drive or park over the drainage field area.
- Use septic-safe detergents and cleaners.
- Conserve water to prevent system overloading.
A well-maintained system can last up to 25 to 40 years or more.
- Conclusion
In short, the septic system installation does require upfront investment and proper planning, but it is a safe, eco-friendly, and long-term solution for wastewater management, specifically in rural areas. By choosing the right system for your property, understanding the whole process, and hiring experienced contractors, your septic system will be efficient, compliant, and built to last.
- FAQs
How much time does septic system installation take?
It takes around 1-3 weeks, depending on weather, soil conditions, permits, and the type of septic system being installed.
How often should I have my septic system pumped?
You should pump your septic system every 3-5 years, but it depends on the usage and size of the tank.
How can I keep my septic tank clean easily?
Flush active dry yeast once a month. It will produce good bacteria that break down the solids in your septic tank.