Advice on installing a septic tank

There was a time when professionals had to do all septic tank installations. Now, there are several DIY kits available to install septic tanks yourself. Read on to find out how.

Knowing how to install a septic tank has been made easier with the availability of the Internet, where videos and information is provided for free. In addition, manufacturers now make compact septic tanks with easy-to-follow instructions. Most septic tank installation kits already come with the necessary installation parts. The only thing required by the homeowner is a set of tools and some handyman skills. Having said the above, it is necessary that whoever installs a septic tank without the aid of a professional has some acumen about home repairs.

First, you must do an onsite evaluation of the area where you intend to place the tank. The next thing is to get the system requirements before you buy your outfit. When buying a septic tank, ensure that you have a design that will fit and is relatively easy to install. Before you physically install the septic tank, ensure that you have the permit from the local housing authorities.

Before you install a septic tank, you must also consider the safety of the environment and yourself or your helpers. Make sure you know where the utility markings are and do not dig in areas where you are not sure of what's underground. The company that provides your utilities will do markings for free. If you damage any utility, you will be held responsible.

Secondly, before you dig a hole to install the septic tank, understand the soil characteristics. Cave-ins and instability are not unheard off.

After you get the septic tank requirements, develop a plan. You have to ensure the trench you dig is proper and at the right slope. It is very costly to make changes afterwards. A well-thought-out plan will help eliminate most installation headaches.

Some of the tools that you will need to install a septic tank include a small backhoe and smaller tools with mechanical equipment. Most instruments to install a septic tank can be rented at any local hardware store and include:.

• Gloves
• Hand level (for box leveling and pipes)
• Laser level
• Mallet
• Measuring tape
• Plastic chambers for the trenches (if you choose to use chambers)
• PVC pipe and saw
 (effluent sewer, gravity sewer, perforated pipe, primer, glue)
• Shovel
• If you are utilizing stone trenches, you will need some type of geo-textile fabric for cover

When obtaining the relevant permit for septic tank installation, always ask the local health department what inspections are necessary and when they are performed. Be prepared for the health department expectations and know ahead of time if they require the new trenches to be covered or left open for inspection. Do they want you to seal the pipes or can you leave them uncovered?

When the health inspection team arrives, be physically present and never send out another person - this usually indicates that you do not care.