26 August 2020
 Categories: , Blog

A septic system on your property provides you with sewage waste management when you don't have access to the city's sewer system and waste treatment site. However, when you are looking to install a new septic system, there are some important elements to consider and decide on beforehand. Here are some tips to help you have a successful installation of your new home septic system.

Plan For Installation

Before you can install your septic system, you need to decide on its placement within your property and make sure it is protected by the right landscaping but also accessible for servicing. Look for an area in your yard that is near your home where you can set the tank within the soil. Next, you need to make sure the soil has good drainage properties so the effluent waste water will seep into the surrounding soil from the drain lines.

Also be sure the vegetation that will grow on the soil over your septic site is appropriate to keep the tank and lines protected. Look for low growing vegetation and plants that have shallow roots, or you can use a mulch ground cover, such as wood chips or bark to prevent soil erosion.

Select a Septic System

If you think a septic system installation is only available in one type, think again, because there are a few different types of systems that handle the solid and liquid waste from your home. A conventional septic system is used more often and contains beneficial bacteria in the tank to break down the waste, while it allows the liquid waste to drain from the tank and through the drain field lines where it continues to decompose. However, you can also consider an alternate septic system which collects the waste in the tank where it also breaks it down through decomposition via the oxygen present. This is a good option when you don't have as much property space for a large drain field area, as the liquid waste is cleaner. 

If your home is built on a steep slope where you cannot rely on the septic system to drain gravitationally from the tank and into the drain lines, you can install an engineered septic system. This system utilizes a pump to move the liquid waste into the drain field lines.

Choose the Tank Material

The type of tank you can install for your septic is also available in several materials. For example, the most common type of septic tank is made of plastic and is the least expensive, but it is more likely to crack from damage. Otherwise, you can choose from a fiberglass tank or one made of durable concrete. Just remember concrete and fiberglass tanks are more durable but can cost more and may be more difficult to repair. Talk to your septic professional about the best option for your system and home soil.