Things To Know About A Septic System Installation

If your home needs a new septic system installation, you probably have a lot of things to discuss with the installation contractor about what you can expect. The process can be long and disruptive, but if you need a new system, there's no choice but to have the work done before your old system fails completely. These are some things about installing a septic system you may want to know.

Warm, Dry Weather Is Ideal For The Installation

If you're in dire need of a new septic system installation, you may not be able to wait for ideal weather conditions. However, if you have months to plan the installation, then the end of summer and early fall could be ideal depending on your local climate.

It's best to install a system in dry weather so the crew doesn't have to keep stopping when it rains. Plus, the ground should be warm enough that it's not frozen and difficult to dig up. However, your contractor can probably install a new septic system in most weather conditions, but it could mean the process takes longer if the weather is bad.

The System Has Several Parts

The important parts of a septic system include the tank, distribution box, and drainfield. These parts are connected to each other and to your house with drains. The system is buried under the ground, so that requires excavation equipment.

The septic system may take up a good portion of your yard, so your yard might be destroyed in the process, but when the work is done, you can plant grass or put down sod and your yard will soon return to normal.

Codes Govern The Installation Process

Your state's health department and local city codes govern how a septic system is installed. The rules are to protect the groundwater from contamination and to keep the system from contaminating your well water.

The installation contractor has to follow regulations for where the tank and drainfield can be placed, and you'll also need to comply with rules for inspections during the installation process and for the life of your system.

The Tank Will Fill Up Fast

There is no reason to lift the lid to your tank to look inside, and it could even be dangerous to do so since noxious fumes could overcome you. Only let the septic contractor work with your system once it's installed. However, if you were to look inside your tank, you would probably be surprised to see how quickly it fills with water once it's installed.

This happens because the drains to the drainfield are in the middle of the tank, so water has to get deep before it starts draining out. This configuration helps your tank work better once it starts accumulating solids. So, if you happen to discover a full tank shortly after it's installed, you don't need to worry since that's normal and supposed to happen.


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