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.
Pointers For Choosing The Location For Your Septic Tank And Drainfield
Putting a septic system on your property takes a lot of preparation. A septic system is much more than just a tank. The drainfield is the largest part of the system and the most complex part to install. The placement of the field and tank have to be chosen carefully, keeping several factors in mind. Here are some pointers for choosing the best place for your septic system to be installed.
Away From Trees If Possible
Tree roots can be a problem for both your tank and drainfield. If you have a line of mature trees at the back of your property, you may want to position the field and tank far away from them. However, tree roots can travel quite a distance in search of water and nutrients, so trees, even trees from a neighboring property, are always a threat. Therefore, you won't want to plant new trees near your septic system, and you may need to have some trees removed before the septic system installation begins.
Far From Your Private Well
Your local codes office is a good resource for a septic system installation. Your contractor must follow these codes when installing your tank and drainfield. The codes stipulate how close a septic system can be to a private well and your house. You may need to drill your well first and then plan the septic system installation around the location of your well.
In An Area That Uses Gravity To Drain
It's convenient if your tank drains using gravity. This is done by adjusting the slope of the underground drains that link your home to the tank and the tank to the drainfield. However, your contractor may also suggest installing the septic system on land that has a gradual slope or that can be sloped during the installation.
A slope is important for helping wastewater get to the drainfield, and it's also important so rain drains away from the field rather than puddle on the top. The drainfield needs to drain properly and not be saturated with excess water because standing water interferes with the way your septic system is supposed to work.
In An Area You Don't Plan To Develop
Remember, you'll need to have the septic tank pumped out every few years, and the worker needs access to the tank for that job. Plus, you won't want cars driving over the tank or field. In addition, you don't want to build a shed or anything else over the drainfield, since grass should be the only thing above your septic system.
Think about the future and decide if you'll be installing a pool or putting in an outbuilding. If so, choose a place for your septic system where it won't be disturbed during construction and once your new building is installed.
Contact a local septic system installation contractor to get more tips.