Understanding the importance of installing a septic tank
Septic tanks treat wastewater in buildings that are not connected to the local sewage system. As you can imagine they are important to the health of your household but also the local environment. Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria and viruses and make local waterways toxic. This is why installing a septic tank properly is paramount. Ground water contaminated by untreated household water will lead to the contamination of drinking water and lots of other dangers.
Factors to consider before installing a septic tank
When you install a septic tank you need to consider a number of factors. For a start you may want to find out whether you require planning permission. Installing septic tank systems doesn’t usually require a permit unless the Environmental Agency stipulates this, but it is worth checking in advance. Companies like Yorkshire Septics will be able to offer advice on this.
Septic tanks installation will also involve:
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- Determining the type of septic system and its design.
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- Deciding what size of septic tank, you need and also how big the drain field should be.
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- The kind of land where it will be situated is important as terrain needs to be as flat as possible so that there is no damage from runoff.
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- Where to place the septic tank is important too as you don’t want it close to trees where roots might spread and damage the tank or close to pipes and other utilities.
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- Ease of access (septic tanks need to be maintained and emptied)
Step-by-step guide to installing a septic tank
1. Choose your location
As explained above, it needs to be away from trees and pipes but also any water sources like streams and wells that might be contaminated by any escaping wastewater.
2. Time to prepare the site
Getting rid of any debris and vegetation is important before you even start as you want the area to be as clear as possible. Once this is done you need to dig a hole that will be big enough to accommodate your septic tank.
3. How to install a septic tank
Once a big enough hole has been created, it’s time to place the septic tank in the space, ensuring it is level and secured before packing it with soil or gravel. After this is done the pipes leading in and out need to be connected, according to manufacturers instructions. Once this is done cover the pipes up with more soil or gravel.
Finally connect the septic system to your home’s plumbing system. This must be done securely. Pipes need to lead from the main drain line of the property into the inlet pipe of the septic tank into an absorption field or leach field. Finally, run water for several minutes through the system to ensure it works properly.
Understanding the costs involved in septic tank installation
It’s all about the size and labour costs. The bigger the septic tank the more it will cost. Anything from around £800 for a small one to £5000 for a larger size. You need to factor in installation costs as well unless you do the job yourself and these could be anything from £10,000 to £30,000.
Using a professional septic tank installation service
Ask yourself if you are really equipped to take on septic tanks installation. If the answer is no or not sure, hire a professional. You’ll save yourself a lot of trouble, the cost of hiring digging and other equipment and the doubt that you’ve done the work to the best standard.
Remember too that if installed incorrectly septic systems can leak raw sewage into the surrounding area and could contaminate local water supplies causing a major health hazard.