Septic: From A to Z

Factors To Consider When Installing A Septic Tank

If your home is located far away from the local wastewater treatment plant, consider installing a septic system. A septic tank system is eco-friendly and affordable. However, there're a few things to consider when setting up the septic system. Here are the factors to consider before a septic tank installation.

Location

Choosing an ideal location for the septic tank ensures that the system works perfectly. When selecting a location, consider the following:

Soil properties

The soil characteristics can influence the performance of a septic system. For example, soils with high absorption and filtration properties are ideal. Consider choosing a location with sandy soil and avoid clay which impedes water absorption.

Terrain

Avoid installing the septic tank at the base of a slope to avoid flooding after rain. Instead, choose a high or level ground that drains well to prevent flooding that can cause a backup.

Land Layout

Artificial and natural structures like trees and underground systems can interfere with your septic tank's drainage. For instance, if the location contains obstructions like underground water lines, you must avoid them to prevent damage. That means more complex excavation works. Therefore, avoid such areas.

Type

The market offers various septic systems such as:

Aerobic systems

They use oxygen to fasten effluent breakdown. There are two types:

  • Fixed film utilizes a porous medium that supports a biomass film that breaks down the effluent.
  • Continuous flow doesn't contain a medium to support the biomass film. In contrast, there's bacterium throughout the system to break down the flowing sewer water.

Sand filter systems

The system comprises a concrete box or PVC line containing a particular sand material. The effluent trickles down the sand filter and the gravel where the waste filters out.

Note that each septic tank installation has a unique working mechanism and fetches a special price. Fortunately, septic system professionals understand each system's costs, benefits, and cons and help you with decision-making.

Size

The septic tank you install should be big enough to manage the wastewater volume from your home. Remember that a small system can be expensive as you may need to install another tank later. Also, an overly big tank can be a waste. Septic tank services can calculate daily wastewater volume to establish the septic system size you require accurately.

When setting up a septic tank installation, consider the location, size, and type of septic system. Make these considerations to install the perfect septic system. 


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