Your septic tank does more for you than you realize. Without it, and without a public sewer connection, you wouldn't really be able to have a toilet or running water in your home. So, what does your septic system ask from you in return? It asks that you are careful not to put too many harsh chemicals down your drains. It asks that you only flush septic-friendly toilet paper. And it asks to be pumped out every now and then. That's about it! Read more about septic services here, and you'll know all that you need to know to be a good septic system owner.
An Overview Of Getting A Septic System Replacement
Septic systems last for many years, but eventually, the tank may crack or the drainfield may clog and lead to the need for a septic system replacement. The tank or drainfield can be replaced alone, or they can both be replaced at the same time. Here's a look at what this might entail.
Septic Tank Replacement
The contractor has two options when putting in a new septic tank. The old tank can be removed so the same hole can be used again, or the old tank can be left in place and decommissioned. If the old tank is left in place, a new hole must be dug for the new tank in an appropriate place.
The tank can be delivered already made and placed in the hole with a crane. The tank hooks up to your home's main sewer drain and a drain that leads to the distribution box. If the old drains are in good shape, they might be reused, but if they've deteriorated, the old drains need to be dug up and replaced too.
If you're moving the location of the tank and replacing the drainfield too, then the drains and distribution box will need to be dug up and moved or replaced.
Drainfield Replacement
Putting in a new drainfield is often the most difficult part of a septic system replacement. If the field is still filtering properly, the contractor will probably reuse it if possible once the new tank is installed. However, if the soil is compacted and not filtering properly, the drainfield may need to be replaced if repairs don't help.
Finding a new spot for a drainfield might be challenging if you have a small lot. You'll need an area with plenty of room, and then you'll need to have a percolation test done to ensure the soil is suitable for filtering wastewater.
Installing the new drainfield pipes involves digging several trenches in the field and laying pipes in them. All the pipes lead back to the distribution box where wastewater from the tank splits from one pipe to many.
Once the septic system replacement is complete, all the parts of the drainfield, drains, and tank are under the ground and hidden from view. You may want to mark the spot of the tank lid so you don't have to search for the lid when it's time to pump out the tank.
Be sure to maintain your tank properly by pumping it on time so solids don't enter the drainfield. Proper maintenance helps your septic system have a longer life.
Contact a company like Garside Sewer & Septic Service LLC for more information.