Your Guide To Hassle-Free Septic Tank Installation
If your old septic system has finally given out or you are building a new home that requires a septic system, you might be worried about the amount of time a new installation will take. Read here to get an idea of how long each step will take and what you can do to ensure a smooth installation experience.
After going through months of one problem after another, you’ve finally decided to install a new septic system. Maybe you’re building a new home in an area that requires one. Whatever the situation may be, “How long does it take to install a septic tank?” is likely one question that has crossed your mind. Properly cared for, septic systems can last up to 50 years, but when the time comes to have a new system installed, you don’t have to wait forever. The pros from Acme share insights and tips for a smooth, stress-free septic installation.
#1: Plan And Prepare
Every septic installation requires some initial groundwork. The first phase of septic installation involves planning and preparing before the tank even arrives on your property. Here are some factors that are useful for homeowners to consider before their new septic tank is installed:
Presence of trees and shrubs on the property
Household size
Water usage
Soil type
Taking each of these points into consideration helps homeowners prepare for the actual date of the installation. Certain trees and shrubs should not be planted near a septic tank or drain field site. It is advised that most trees should be planted at least 20-50 feet from your septic system to prevent root damage and poor access to the tank.
Your household size and water usage are considerations that help us determine what the size of your septic tank should be. If you have a fully occupied four-bedroom home, a large tank is the most appropriate choice. Smaller homes, or homes with fewer occupants, will find a smaller tank sufficient to handle daily household water usage.
#2: Site Evaluation And Permits (1-3 Weeks)
After initial considerations have been made, homeowners will need to have a site evaluation of their property performed. During this phase, a septic technician will evaluate factors such as the slope, elevation, and natural drainage of your property. They will identify existing structures such as wells and other water sources, and assess the size of your property. They will also ensure that the installation is capable of meeting local and state code regulations. When this phase is complete, you should be cleared to receive an installation permit.
#3: Soil Testing And Design Planning (1-2 Weeks)
Before installation, a septic technician will test the quality of your property’s soil. Certain types of soil, including soil that is extremely rocky or claylike, may require specific types of septic systems, such as an ATU, which is often a requirement for these types of soil conditions. Your property’s water table (how close groundwater comes to the surface) will be determined during this time to ensure proper drainage is possible.
#4: Excavation And Installation (1-3 days)
Once all of the preliminary steps have been completed, the longest period of the installation process is over, and you will soon be the proud owner of a new septic tank. Once the excavation crew arrives on your property, they will begin clearing and preparing the site for your installation. The timeline for a replacement septic tank compared to a first-time installation varies only slightly. If you are replacing an old tank, the time frame of 1-3 days for excavation may be on the shorter end, but if factors such as soil contamination have occurred, additional time may be necessary.
#5: Inspections And Approvals (approximately 1-2 weeks)
After your new installation is safely in the ground, the final inspection and approval process is ready to begin. Local and state regulations are in place to ensure that pollution and public health hazards are kept to an absolute minimum. Once your new septic installation is determined to be in compliance with all regulatory expectations, the process is complete.
Contact Acme For Simple, Streamlined Septic Installation
Your septic system contributes to the ease and predictability of your day to day life. You shouldn’t have to stress over the question, “How long does it take to install a septic tank?” Count on Acme for efficient, reliable, and affordable service.
