1. Introduction
Several major mistakes can damage a septic system’s performance during installation. It’s essential to steer clear of these errors to get a system that lasts and works efficiently. Some common mistakes include picking the wrong spot, sizing the tank incorrectly, not preparing the soil properly, forgetting to plan for drain field maintenance, hiring contractors without the right qualifications, and missing out on required permits.
2. Septic System Installation: Top Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them?
Making mistakes during the complicated process of septic system installation can cause many problems. Here’s a more detailed look at the mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Poor Site Selection:
A proper site assessment and selection is important. Here’s why:
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| One of the common mistakes is to place the septic system at the wrong location, such as near water sources, like wells or property lines. This can contaminate the drinking water or create some legal issues. | By proper site assessments: soil testing, percolation tests, etc., this will help you choose the best spot for septic installation. Moreover, it is essential to maintain a safe distance from water sources and property lines. | Without proper site assessments and choosing the most suitable location for septic installation, many issues could prevail, such as drainage problems, system failure, groundwater contamination, etc. |
- Incorrect Tank Sizing:
Incorrect tank sizing can lead to several problems. Have a look:
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Improper sizing of a septic tank can lead to frequent overflows or backups. | Calculate the correct septic tank size based on the number of rooms and expected water usage. Consult with a septic system professional for accurate sizing. | Oversized tanks can waste your money or be inefficient, whereas small tanks can lead to potential system failure. |
- Improper Soil Preparation:
Inadequate soil preparation is a grave mistake on should avoid. Here’s why:
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Improper soil preparation for the drainfield can hinder proper drainage and filtration. | Make sure to properly excavate and grade the soil to ensure good drainage. Also, clear away any obstacles, such as rocks or clay, that could block water flow. | It matters because inadequate soil preparation can cause issues like standing water, soggy areas, and eventual drainfield failure. |
- Ignoring Drainfield Maintenance:
Ignoring drainfield maintenance? A big no.
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Neglecting the drainfield’s maintenance—causing clogging, backups, and premature failure. | Regular drainfield maintenance: periodic inspections, pumping, and proper landscaping around the drainfield. | A well-maintained drainfield is essential for the long-term health and functionality of your septic system. |
- Hiring Unqualified Contractors:
Hiring unqualified contractors = waste of money and time.
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Hiring unqualified contractors is a common mistake that leads to cost and system malfunctions. | Always choose a reputable contractor and experienced company with years of experience and good reviews, one who are aware of local regulations. | Choosing the right contractor matters because they will guarantee proper installation, compliance with regulations, and long-term system reliability. |
- Failing to Obtain Necessary Permits:
Without obtaining the necessary permits, you will be doing an illegal job.
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Installing a septic system without required permits = fines, legal issues, and system shutdown. | Get those permits from the authorities ASAP. | To ensure a safe and environmentally sound septic system installation. |
- Neglecting System Ventilation:
Let those gases escape, or they will find a way.
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Neglecting proper ventilation is a major blunder that can build up pressure and damage the system. | Ensure proper ventilation for pressure maintenance. | Because it ensures long-term health benefits for your system and prevents malfunctions. |
- Ignoring Unusual System Activity:
If your system is giving you signs of damage, you must see them carefully.
| The Common Mistake | How to Avoid it? | Why does it matter? |
| Ignoring warning signs, such as gurgling drains, slow drains, or soggy areas around the drainfield. | If you ever see such signs of damage, call a professional company ASAP to locate the issue and fix it. | Without fixing the problem sooner, you will have to pay for much costly repairs later. |
3. Conclusion:
Hence, ignoring the damage signs or improper septic system installation can lead to multiple problems at front. Your system will start draining, the pressure will build up, and in the worst-case scenario, your system will malfunction.
4. FAQs:
What’s the worst thing for a septic tank?
Drain cleaners or other chemicals.
How much does septic installation cost?
Around $4000 to $25000, depending on the size.
How much time does septic installation take?
A standard septic system takes 1 to 3 days to get installed.