Septic tanks are an important part of many homes and businesses that are not connected to a public sewage system. These tanks are used to treat and dispose of wastewater, and they play a crucial role in ensuring that properties are able to properly and safely dispose of their waste.

 In this blog post, we will take a closer look at septic tanks, their functions, and the process for installing a new septic system.

What is a septic tank?

A septic tank is a large underground tank. Septic tanks are typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic. Septic tanks are designed to hold wastewater, the tank allows waste to settle to the bottom while the liquid waste is filtered and discharged into the surrounding soil. 

The main function of a septic tank is to treat and dispose of wastewater in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. The tank contains bacteria that help to break down the waste and reduce the amount of harmful pollutants in the water. The solid waste is held in the tank until it can be pumped out and disposed of. 

Why is a septic tank important?

Septic tanks are important for a number of reasons:

1. Environmental protection: Septic tanks help to protect the environment by treating and disposing of wastewater in a safe manner. They prevent pollutants and harmful bacteria from entering nearby bodies of water and groundwater, which can have a detrimental effect on the ecosystem.
2. Health and safety: Septic tanks help to prevent the spread of disease by treating and disposing of waste in a sanitary manner. 
3. Cost-effective: Septic tanks can be a cost-effective solution for homes and businesses that are not connected to a public sewage system. They eliminate the need for expensive and complex connections to a public sewage system, and they can also help to reduce the cost of waste disposal.
4. Durability: Septic tanks are made of durable materials such as concrete, fiberglass or plastic, they can be expected to last for decades if properly maintained, keeping the cost of replacement low!
5. Reliability: Septic tanks are a reliable solution for waste disposal. They are designed to work effectively and efficiently, and they can handle large volumes of waste without the need for frequent maintenance

What’s the process for septic tank installation?

Installing a septic system typically involves the following steps:

1. Site evaluation: The first step in installing a septic system is to conduct a site evaluation. This will include a review of the soil conditions, the topography of the land, and the location of any nearby wells or bodies of water. This information will be used to determine the suitability of the property for a septic system.
2. Design: Once the site has been evaluated, the next step is to design the septic system. This will include determining the size of the tank and the size of the drain field. The design will be based on the results of the site evaluation and will take into account the number of bedrooms in the home, the expected volume of waste, and the soil conditions of the property.
3. Permits and approvals: After the design has been completed, the next step is to obtain any necessary permits and approvals from local authorities. This will vary depending on the location and regulations of the area, but typically includes permits from the health department and the building department.
4. Installation: Once all necessary permits and approvals have been obtained, the septic tank can be installed. The installation process typically involves digging a hole for the tank, installing the tank and connecting it to the drain field, and then backfilling the hole. The installation should be done by a licensed and experienced septic system installer.
5. Inspection: After the installation is complete, the system will be inspected by the local health department or other appropriate agency to ensure that it has been installed correctly and that it meets all local regulations.
6. Maintenance: Once the septic system is installed, it is important to schedule regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that it continues to function properly. This typically includes having the tank pumped out every 3-5 years, and inspecting and maintaining the drain field.

How much does a new septic tank installation cost?

The cost of a new septic system can vary widely depending on several factors, such as:

1. Size of the tank: The size of the septic tank will affect the cost of the installation. Larger tanks can hold more waste and will typically cost more to install.
2. Type of tank: Different types of tanks, such as concrete, fiberglass, or plastic, can have different costs associated with them. Concrete tanks are typically more expensive than fiberglass or plastic tanks, but they are also more durable and longer-lasting.
3. Soil conditions: The soil conditions of the property can also affect the cost of the installation. If the soil is not suitable for a septic system, additional work may be required to prepare the site, which can increase the cost.
4. Drain field: The size and type of drain field required will also affect the cost. A larger or more complex drain field will cost more to install.
5. Accessibility: If the site is hard to access, it can increase the cost of the installation. For example, if the site is located on a hill or in a remote area, it may require additional equipment or labor to install the tank.
6. Permits and inspections: The cost of permits and inspections can vary depending on the location and regulations, they can add an additional cost.
7. Labor: The cost of labor can also vary depending on the location and the experience of the septic system installer.
8. Additional features: Some septic systems come with additional features, such as alarms, that can increase the cost of the installation.
9. Maintenance: The cost of regular maintenance also should be taken into account when budgeting for a septic system installation.

On average, however, a new septic system can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 or more. It is important to obtain multiple quotes from different septic system installers to get an idea of the average cost of a new septic system in your area.

In conclusion, septic tanks play an important role in ensuring that homes and businesses are able to properly and safely dispose of their waste. They are a crucial component of many homes and businesses that are not connected to a public sewage system. While the cost of a new septic system can be substantial, it is a necessary investment that will ensure that your home or business is able to properly treat and dispose of its waste for many years to come.