If you live in a rural community or another setting where municipal wastewater treatment isn’t available, you can still enjoy everything that indoor plumbing has to offer by installing a septic system. Professional septic tank installation sets up your system to last for decades, provided you keep up with regular septic tank pumping and maintenance.
If it’s time to replace your septic tank, or you’re installing one for the first time on your new property, you may be curious about the septic tank installation process. Here are the steps a professional take when completing the job.
Design the Septic System
The ideal location for your septic system depends on the available space on your property, features of the terrain, soil composition and locations of nearby wells. An on-site survey helps your plumber pinpoint the best places for the tank and drain field.
Then, the size of the system depends on your anticipated water use and the size of the home or business the tank will service. All of these considerations must be factored into the design of the septic system.
Apply for Permits
With the design complete, your plumber can apply for the necessary permits. Upon receiving approval from your local jurisdiction, the septic tank installation can commence.
Remove the Old Septic Tank, if Necessary
If you’re replacing an existing tank, it must be removed to make way for the new one. This is a delicate process requiring knowledge of heavy equipment operation. Keep in mind that additional digging may be needed to accommodate a new tank and pipes, especially if you’re upgrading to a larger size. However, if there’s room to install a new tank without removing the old one, the old tank can be abandoned in place.
Excavate
It’s necessary to dig a hole large enough to house the septic tank as well as tracks for drainage pipes in the drain field. Your plumber is careful to preserve as much of the landscape as possible during this process.
Install the Tank and Pipes
The tank is lowered into the hole, and all associated plumbing and drainage pipes are installed. Gravel is also packed around the pipes to hold them steady and to assist in draining.
It’s important for the inlet pipes to slant downward continuously toward the septic tank, but the slope can’t be too great or solids may be left behind in the pipe. The outlet pipes need to slant downward toward the drain field. Careful planning and execution by an experienced professional ensure the desired outcome.
Bury the Septic System
With the septic tank installation complete, the final step is to fill in the areas around the tank and pipes to hide them from view. We recommend marking the location of the septic tank and drain field with rocks, flags or potted plants to ease future maintenance and prevent accidental damage.
If you’re interested in scheduling septic tank installation for your home or business, please contact A-1 Septic Tank Service online or call us at (510) 886-4455. We perform other waste disposal services as well, including septic tank pumping, grease trap cleaning and more.