- Build your replacement baffle using the PVC pipe and coupling. Cut one section of pipe to connect to the existing drain and pass through the wall of the septic tank. Attach the tee coupling to the pipe on the interior of the tank.
Does a septic tank need baffles?
Inlet baffles are needed for proper performance of the septic tank. Raw sewage from the residence is directed by the baffle downward into the middle zone of the septic tank. This means the effluent follows a tortuous path through the tank, which provides the necessary detention time for the larger solids to settle out.
How deep should a septic baffle be?
The inlet baffle should extend at least six inches below the invert of the pipe, but no more than 20% of the liquid depth. The outlet baffle should extend between 35 and 40% of the liquid depth.
How long should a septic tank baffle be?
The inlet baffle should extend at least 6 inches, but no more than 12 inches into the liquid level of the tank. The inlet baffle should extend 12 inches above the liquid level of the tank. This is a total baffle length of 18 to 24 inches.
How much does it cost to replace a baffle in a septic tank?
Repairing a baffle costs $300 to $900 on average. You may pay more if it’s tough to access. The baffle helps to prevent buildup in the incoming or outgoing pipes of the tank.
Can you replace a baffle in a septic tank?
By way of review: There should be baffles at both the inlet and outlet of a septic tank. The picture shows a deteriorated concrete baffle at the outlet of a septic tank. The fix in this case is to remove the remains of the concrete baffle that was cast with the tank and replace it with a sanitary tee.
Do all septic tanks have filters?
First, not all septic tanks have a filter, especially the older septic tanks. Now many government agencies require or recommend a filter when a septic tank is installed. Cleaning a septic tank filter is different than pumping out a septic tank and cleaning it.
What’s a baffle in a septic tank?
Septic baffles are located at the junctions where pipes enter and exit the tank. The one at the inlet pipe is called the inlet baffle, and the one at the outlet is called the outlet baffle. It’s designed to help wastewater flow smoothly into the tank without disturbing the scum layer.
Why do septic tanks have baffles?
The inlet baffle directs the flow of wastewater into your septic tank, and prevents the scum layer in the tank from being disturbed. It also can help prevent solids from backing up toward the house if you should experience a septic system backup.
How do you tell if your septic tank is full?
How to tell your septic tank is full and needs emptying
- Pooling water.
- Slow drains.
- Odours.
- An overly healthy lawn.
- Sewer backup.
- Gurgling Pipes.
- Trouble Flushing.
What is an effluent filter?
Effluent filters are devices that can be affixed to outlets of septic tank and grease trap as pictured at right (Figure 1). The filter is a primary screening barrier designed to reduce the volume of solids passing out of the tank and through to the soil absorption system (SAS).
How to Build a Septic Tank Baffle
In your septic tank, a baffle is an essential component, since it prevents solid waste from entering the field lines and also from backing up into the house drainage system. It is necessary to replace or repair the baffle if it has been broken, knocked off, or rusted out completely. When a plumber uses a drain router to unclog a pipe, he or she might knock off a baffle. The router collides with the baffle and falls into the septic tank, where no one is aware of it until a problem arises.
Step 1
Cut a piece of PVC pipe that is approximately 24 inches in length. Although the pipe should ordinarily be 4 inches in diameter, the diameter of the pipe should match the diameter of the drain line coming from your property (usually 4 inches). In addition to connecting to the drain line, this portion of pipe will also extend into the septic tank. On the inlet side of the tank, you’ll find this.) The pipe coupler should be glued to one end of the pipe after it has been cleaned with the pipe cleaner and secured in place.
Step 2
Also, make sure you clean the opposite end of the pipe and the center hole on the tee fitting before continuing. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the pipe before inserting it into the tee fitting. As the pipe is being inserted into the fitting, twist it slightly to assist in spreading the adhesive evenly. Hold the pipe in place for a few seconds to enable the adhesive to cure a little bit more before moving ahead.
Step 3
Another portion of PVC pipe should be cut. When this portion is installed, it will extend down into the septic tank from where it is connected to the tee fitting and must be long enough to pass through the surface sludge in the tank, which is usually no more than 6 inches thick. The pipe must be extended down roughly 12 inches past the sludge before it can be used. This portion should be reduced to 24 inches in length for safety reasons. This is accomplished by extending below the sludge and preventing it from entering the field lines or backing up into the home drain.
Step 4
One end of the pipe should be cleaned and the PC cement should be applied. The pipe should be inserted into one of the two holes on the tee fitting. To secure the pipe in place, twist it slightly again and keep it in place until the glue has had a chance to build up a little more.
Step 5
Measure and cut a final piece of PVC pipe that is approximately 6 inches long. Pipe cleaner should be used to clean both ends of the pipe before applying pipe cement to only one end of the pipe. Slide the other end of the tee fitting into the last opening in the fitting. Twist it gently and hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure it stays in place.
Step 6
Once you’ve cleaned the second pipe coupler, you’ll want to apply cement to the end of the short pipe you just fitted.
Slide the coupler onto the pipe and hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure that it is securely attached. Additional glue should be applied to the interior of the coupler before inserting the grate insert into the coupler. Allow for thorough drying of all fittings before installing them.
3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SEPTIC TANK BAFFLES
By Admin on November 12, 2020 Your efforts to live as environmentally conscious as possible, as a responsible homeowner, are likely already underway, with practices such as recycling, composting, and purchasing energy-efficient equipment among your list of accomplishments. As a septic tank owner, you want to be sure that anything you put into your tank and septic field is causing the least amount of ground contamination as is reasonably practicable. Fortunately, there are a number of modest improvements you can do immediately to make your septic system even more ecologically friendly than it already is.
- Have your septic tank inspected and pumped on a regular basis.
- A bigger septic tank with only a couple of people living in your house, for example, will not require pumping as frequently as a smaller septic tank or as a septic tank that must manage the waste products of multiple family members will require.
- When in doubt about how often to pump your septic tank, consult with a professional for advice.
- In addition to locating and repairing any damage, a professional can ensure that the septic field is in good working order and that your septic tank is functional, large enough to handle your family’s waste, and not causing any unwanted pollution in nearby ground water.
- Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet or down the toilet.
- Items that are not biodegradable are unable to properly decompose in the septic tank and might cause the system to get clogged.
- In addition to causing issues in your house, septic system backups can damage ground water in the area surrounding your septic field.
Towels made of paper Products for feminine hygiene Grease or fats are used in cooking.
grinds from a cup of coffee Even if you have a trash disposal, the food scraps that you flush down the drain and bring into your septic system may cause unanticipated harm to your plumbing system.
Food scraps can enhance the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater, which can disturb the natural bacterial balance of the septic tank, among other things.
Water conservation should be practiced.
Exceedingly large amounts of water use will interfere with the normal flow of wastewater from your home into your septic tank.
Limiting the amount of time you spend in the shower and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, as well as purchasing a smaller dishwasher and washing machine that use less water, are all simple strategies to reduce water use in your home.
The following are some basic steps you can take to make your septic system more ecologically friendly: save water, maintain your septic system and tank, and recycle wastewater. To get answers to any of your septic tank-related issues, get in touch with the experts at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.
Installing Baffles and Screens Correctly to Retain Solids
Get articles, news, and videos about Onsite Systems delivered directly to your email! Now is the time to sign up. Plus, there are Onsite Systems. Receive Notifications Sewage treatment plants are designed to hold sediments that collect in the soil. Solid waste can include a variety of items, some of which are byproducts of the waste treatment process and others which are materials that may not be capable of being treated, such as human hair. It is critical that the sediments remain in the septic tank and are not discharged into the surrounding environment.
- Baffles and screens are used in a variety of applications.
- It is the purpose of an inlet baffle to guide the incoming flow downward into the clear zone and to prevent the inlet pipes from becoming blocked with scum.
- A plate or partial wall baffle is one form of baffle that is isolated from the pipe system.
- Plate baffles can be added by the manufacturer before to the tank being delivered, or by the installer after the tank has been delivered.
- A sanitary tee is another sort of intake baffle that may be used.
- The installation of these is similar to that of plate baffles in that they are attached directly to the building sewage plumbing that is located on the interior of the tank.
- Some tanks are shipped with a sanitary tee already connected to the tank’s drain.
- It is critical to properly support this pipe since any settling increases the likelihood of leaks or the tee slipping out of alignment.
- There are two types of outlet baffles available: a partial wall baffle and a pipe arrangement.
- The tank exit is often equipped with an effluent filter, which removes any further suspended materials that might clog downstream components.
Additionally, the screen may be put into any regular golf hole. It is necessary to place the screen beneath the tank access so that it may be inspected and maintained. A number of things should be taken into consideration when selecting an effluent screen if one is to be employed.
- Ideally, the screen enclosure will function as an output tee. Solids with a thickness of no more than 1/8-inch should be able to pass through the screen and into the cartridge. The capacity of the screen should be sufficient to accommodate the anticipated organic load. It is important that the screen be securely fastened in place and that it does not allow unfiltered solids to flow through if the screen apertures get blocked. When designing the screen housing, take care to ensure that it does not interfere with periodic tank pumping.
A multi-compartment tank may be necessary or recommended in a number of circumstances. The added barrier may aid in the slowing down of the effluent as well as the retention of particles. Typically, a tank with compartments has a tee, slot, or central transfer hole in addition to the compartments. The initial compartment of a septic tank shall have a volume that is equal to or greater than the volume of any subsequent compartments, unless otherwise specified. To provide adequate ventilation of sewage gases via the plumbing stack in the facility, air must be forced to move from one compartment to another.
- The usage of a smoke test for verification or troubleshooting may be warranted.
- She holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in environmental science.
- Her responsibilities include serving as the education chair for the Minnesota Onsite Wastewater Association and the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association, as well as serving on the National Science Foundation’s International Committee on Wastewater Treatment Systems.
- Heger will respond as soon as possible.
How to Replace a Septic Tank Baffle
In the event if your septic tank is kept in good condition by frequent plumping, a septic tank baffle is not necessarily essential. Even if there isn’t one, the tank is perfectly functioning. Providing that it is well maintained, with regular pumping, or that there are no other difficulties that might cause a large amount of sludge to accumulate in your tank, this should be possible for you. For example, if your tank has to be pumped out once every 4 or 5 years, or if the wastes are discharged into a drain field, you should consider installing a filter on the outlet side of the tank.
If the baffle on your tank has been rusted or broken, you may replace it rather than having to purchase a completely new tank.
Step 1 – Accessing the Septic Tank
You should get access to the exterior of the septic tank, which is where the water is discharged into the drain field. If you are unable to reach the lid from the ground level, you will need to dig to gain access to the lid.
Step 2 – Clean the Area
If there is a tank leak, you should contact the local health department to find out what you need do to clean up the area around the leaking tank.
Step 3 – Pump the Tank
If there are any issues, you should pump the tank in order to ease the difficulties that are now present. If you want to replace the baffle or possibly the entire septic tank, this is a very crucial step. Step 4 – Unlock the outlet side of the device. Once you’ve opened the lid on the outlet side, you should be able to reach the top of the baffle and slide the new filter or new baffle down until you reach the handle of the filter, as shown in the picture.
The access plate should be elevated above ground level if digging was required in order to reach it. This allows each individual user to readily determine if the filter is clogged without needing to dig up and down the entire trench again.
Extra Tips
You should keep in mind that, while filters can solve many issues, they can also cause many new ones. So be cautious while using filters. If you are the system owner and you perform the work on your own, you are aware that the system and filter must be properly maintained in order to avoid clogging and other problems. Solid waste depositions in the drain field are caused by clogging of the drain. According to other reports, the technology may even back them up inside the house. It is possible to extend the life of a septic tank and system by reducing the quantity of water that enters the particular system.
If you keep track of how much water you use, you may save money on water and avoid having to make costly repairs to your septic tank.
WHAT SEPTIC BAFFLES ARE AND HOW THEY WORK
In its most basic form, your septic tank separates liquids from solids, then retains the solids until they can be pumped out while sending the liquids to a distribution field. However, this system is far more complicated than it appears at first look. However, these procedures might be a little more sophisticated than they appear at first glance. It is possible that certain sections of the tank, even if they are the simplest and most basic, may need to be replaced from time to time, such as the baffles at the entrance and outflow, as well as the baffle filter (also called effluent filter).
- FUNCTIONS OF THE SEPTIC BAFFLE Septic baffles are situated at the intersections where pipes enter and exit the tank to prevent clogging.
- In many cases, the outlet baffle is regarded as the most critical baffle, since it prevents particles from departing the tank and making their way to the leach field, where they might clog and effectively damage the leach field system.
- Unfortunately, this baffle is also the first to give way under its own weight.
- Its purpose is to aid in the smooth flow of wastewater into the tank while minimizing disturbance of the scum layer.
- MATERIALS FOR SEPTIC BAFFLE Several types of septic baffles are available, some of which are constructed of concrete and others, particularly newer variants, which are composed of plastic such as ABS.
- The exit baffle is frequently equipped with an effluent filter, which increases the effectiveness of the baffle in terms of keeping solids out of the leach field.
- The effluent filter will need to be updated on a regular basis after that, but this is a small price to pay for avoiding having to redo your leach field as a result.
- Once a year, or whenever your tank is drained out, you should have the concrete baffles evaluated for structural integrity.
- Among the other baffle issues include blocked outlet baffles or outlet baffle filters, leaks at the baffle-to-tank connection, and inlet baffle obstructions, among other things.
- Baffle blockages can also arise as a result of tree roots entering the system through the input pipe or around the baffle.
Call Pete’s Outflow Technicians for any baffle repairs or replacements, filter installs, or baffle malfunction diagnosis. They have years of expertise in the field. In addition to septic repairs, pumping, and other upkeep, we can provide septic inspections when purchasing or selling a home.
Our Services
Our pump truck is waiting for you, fully stocked and ready to get to work for you right away. Having cutting-edge equipment that can get the job done when others are struggling is something we take great pleasure in.
RV Pumping
If you have a recreational vehicle and are unable to move it, we can provide pumping services for your vehicle. To prevent your waste tank from being sucked flat during the operation, a specific connection must be used. Our vehicles are well equipped and prepared for the job.
Inspection Camera Work
If you are concerned about a possible problem and would want to get a better look at it before investing a lot of time and money on it, you may want to consider employing our camera equipment to get a better look at it. Before you start digging, make sure you’re making the appropriate choice.
Baffle Replacement
Septic tanks are nothing more than enormous solids-collection containers. Baffles are a component of a septic tank that helps to keep sediments contained. When baffles are missing, incorrectly fitted, or degraded after years of exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas, which is found in all septic tanks, it is recommended that they be removed and replaced.
Filter Installation
Having a filter put on the outflow of your sewer system is another method of keeping sediments contained in your septic tank. Filters like this are reusable and simple to clean. By keeping tiny solid particles from leaking into your pump chamber or drain field, you may extend the life of your septic system by many years or more.
Riser Installation
The use of rippers is mandatory on all new septic systems, and they may be retrofitted to older septic systems as well. Risers are devices that raise the lids of septic tanks to the surface of the ground. Inspections, maintenance, and pumping access will be much easier as a result of this. There aren’t many firms nowadays that will find and dig for free. The money you would have spent on excavating and finding will be used to pay for your riser installation over the course of time. Not to add the time saved if you have a backup tank and need to get to the tank quickly when you don’t have one.
Submersible Pump Replacement
Septic systems are growing more sophisticated than they have ever been before. In many septic systems, one or more submersible pumps are included as part of the overall system. The pumps in question are electromechanical devices. They require the services of a service specialist to properly connect them to the water supply and set the floats in accordance with the design specifications. The electrical work is next required to be completed by a licensed electrician in the labor business.
Drain Field Installation / Repair
If you want a septic system repair or a complete installation, we are capable of meeting your requirements from start to finish.
Inspections
We are completely competent of doing inspections for a variety of clients.
- Home sale
- County health department approval required
- Septic system certifications required
Contracts for operation and maintenance (OM) are now available to satisfy the needs of your systems, which are being implemented by the County Health Department.
- Contracts for operation and maintenance (OM) are now available to suit the needs of your systems, which are being implemented by the County Health Division.
For all of your unsolved issues, symptoms, and problems related to your septic system, we can provide system troubleshooting and guidance.
When you have a problem with your septic system, let our years of knowledge guide you to the most cost-effective solutions.
Preferred Customer Program
Superior is assisting you in lessening the impact of growing septic system maintenance expenses on your pocketbook. I am pleased to offer you this tool, which allows you to set money aside in a trust account for the sake of system maintenance. Call and ask for further information at 425-905-2485.
Tank Locating
We can locate almost any tank using the most up-to-date electronic devices. Simply flush a transmitter and follow it to the tank to complete the process.
Main Line Cleaning (jetting)
Using soap and disposing of grease from clothing and dishes add to the accumulation of sediment in the main line leading to the septic tank, which can cause it to back up and overflow. This buildup will cause drainage to become sluggish and eventually back up into the residence. Every six years, it is suggested that you have your line cleaned. Line cleaning equipment with a high volume and pressure scours the line like new and then draws the loosening material back to the tank using our high volume and pressure equipment.
It is recommended that the line be cleaned every other time if your septic system is on a three-year inspection and pumping plan.
Trap Clear
There are a variety of solutions available to keep your lines clean these days, but Trap Clear is one that is particularly well-known in our field. It is not available for purchase over the counter, and it is only available for purchase via industry specialists.
Septic Tank Services
With anything from high-quality repairs to reasonably priced installs, you can count on receiving long-lasting service at a competitive price. United Sanitation Services Inc is a fully certified and insured septic system pumping and installation company serving the counties of Boone, Winnebago, and McHenry. With our years of knowledge and expertise, you can be confident that you will obtain high-quality outcomes across the board, and it is our mission to guarantee that you fully comprehend how your system performs.
Septic Tank System Operation
It is only during a pump-out that the septic tank can be examined for leaks, which can only be done during the process. It is quite rare for a contemporary tank to experience leaks. If the tank is made of metal, on the other hand, it has a lifespan of around 20 years and must be replaced when it fails. The use of baffles is essential for the correct operation of a septic tank because they aid in the prevention of particles from flowing through the tank and into the absorption area. The baffles are the only elements of a septic tank that are known to fail on a regular basis.
When it comes to preventing damage to the absorption field, the outlet baffle is more critical.
If the baffles have been damaged in any way, they should be replaced as soon as possible. This is less expensive than the replacement of the absorption field. It is also recommended that the consumer considers adding a filter on the outflow baffle.
Pumping and Cleaning
Having your septic tank sediments drained out is a must if you want to maintain the health of your system. The frequency will be determined by the size of your system, the number of people living in your home, the amount of waste that has been added (including disinfectants, bleaches, and detergents), and the previous care that the system has had. You may depend on our knowledge and experience to assist you in establishing a pumping plan for your system.
Routine Maintenance
Maintaining your system on a regular basis is essential in order to avoid costly problems in the future. Our trained professionals will assist you with the repair, installation, and education of your system to guarantee that you receive the great service that you deserve! For further information, please contact us at 815-547-5700 right away. Following these simple guidelines can assist you in keeping your septic system in excellent working order and avoiding the need for further pumping: Do:
- Monthly, add a packet of enzymes to the tank to keep the bacteria count at a healthy level. Systemic septic tanks perform the functions of both sewers and wastewater treatment plants. Bacterial activity takes place in order to breakdown the waste material. When we pump your tank, we can provide enough bacteria for a year’s worth of food. For extra boxes, please contact our office. Reduce the quantity of water you use to a bare minimum. Water conservation should be practiced. Repair any leaky toilets or faucets as soon as possible. Other sources of water, such as roof drains and sump pumps, should be diverted away from the septic system.
- Fill the tank with dangerous or potentially hazardous substances. Even minute amounts of paints, varnishes, thinners, waste oil, photographic solutions, pesticides, and other organic compounds might interfere with the biological digestion that is going place inside the system
- Nevertheless, even little amounts of these substances can be harmful. Placing plastic, cat litter, cigarette filters, condoms, tampons, sanitary napkins, paper towels, or face tissues in the septic system will cause it to back up and overflow. These items quickly load the tank with solids and reduce the tank’s efficiency by decreasing its efficiency. Moreover, they can clog the sewage pipe leading to the tank, resulting in wastewater backing up into the house. Grease and fats should be poured down the kitchen sink drain. As a result, they solidify and might create a blockage. Do many loads of laundry in a row to save time. Spread the washing out over the course of the day or over several days to reduce the strain on the system. Waste disposals are generally considered to be a source of system overload and should be avoided if possible.
Aerobic Treatment Unit
Applied thermal units (ATUs) are beneficial and required at sites with “disturbed” soil (compacted, chopped, or filled) and in ecologically sensitive places such as those near bodies of water, shallow bedrock, or high water tables, among other things. Because wastewater exits an ATU as high-quality effluent, it is possible that the soil in the absorption field will be better prepared to receive the wastewater in the future. After the big particles have been removed by the septic tank, the liquid effluent is routed via the ATU before reaching the absorption field for treatment.
- ATUs that are well-designed provide bacteria with time and room to settle while also delivering oxygen to the bacterium and mixing the bacteria with their food source (sewage).
- ATUs require more frequent maintenance than septic tanks.
- Depending on the requirements of the local government and the manufacturer’s recommendations, the system may require maintenance every three to six months or every year (usually twice a year).
- There must be a visual check of the effluent, and in many cases, a laboratory study is required.
- In the event that there are difficulties with settling, there will be difficulties with absorption.
Lift Stations
It is necessary to pump wastewater from a low elevation to a high elevation in order for gravity to be utilized in the transportation of the wastewater from the septic system to the absorption field. Lift stations contain pumps, valves, and electrical equipment that are required to pump wastewater from a low elevation to a high elevation. Most systems are equipped with alarms that alert consumers when pumps fail, and additional alarms can be installed to avert emergency situations. Call today for a FREE estimate!
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Daryl and his team were always on time and arrived at the job site early and on time.
He kept me up to speed and informed on the development of the case, as well as what the next steps were throughout the entire process.
He arrived on time and at the price he gave me, plus he also removed and carted away a tree stump for me as a courtesy. I would absolutely suggest this company. Angie’s List is a consumer review website.
Installation – Pumps, Filters, Baffles – A Wesco Septic Service
It is necessary to employ septic pumps in order to transport septic effluent from the pumping chamber to the drainfield. Septic pumps do not have to transport solids, but they are constructed to last a longer period of time and to withstand more demanding conditions than a normal sump pump, which is meant to drain ground water from a structure. We will evaluate your tank and provide and install the appropriate pump for it. The use of Effluent Filters can extend the life of your septic system by removing materials down to 1/16-inch in size.
- These filters can last for months or even years before they need to be replaced or cleaned.
- In addition, we provide a filter cleaning service in which we visit to your home twice a year to clean your filter.
- When the input baffle is closed, wastewater from the sewage line is forced down into the tank, rather than over its surface and onto the outlet pipe going to the absorption area, as would otherwise be the case.
- When liquid effluent (effluent) in the tank exists between those layers, the solids and sludge settle to the bottom of the tank, while scum (lightweight materials such as paper, fats, and greases) rises to the surface.
Sewage Systems
Excessive wastewater discharged into your septic system might lead to the failure of an on-lot sewage system, which can be costly to repair. It is possible to extend the life of your septic system if you follow the recommendations below.
- Pump out your septic tank every two to three years, depending on the size of the tank and how much it is used. At this point, you should request that your septic tank pumper examine the baffles within the tank. The baffles minimize the amount of particles that can reach the drain field and block the system, resulting in a malfunction of the drainage system. If any of these baffles are damaged or broken, they may be replaced with sanitary tees without the need for a building permit. NEVER EVER GET INTO A SEPTIC TANK. Toxic gases may kill in minutes if not treated immediately. Check for leaky faucets and plumbing fittings on a regular basis and fix them as soon as possible
- Pumps, spouting, or any other type of water that is not garbage should not be dumped into the system. Any downspouts or storm water should be diverted away from the septic system. Do not complete your laundry in a single day. Distribute the loads of laundry throughout the week, as needed. Never put any hazardous wastes into your septic system, including but not limited to: oil and grease, paint, diapers, paper towels, plastic items, rubbish, and so on. Due to the fact that hazardous waste cannot be digested readily by the microorganisms in the septic system, particles can accumulate in the system and create clogging. Ensure that no heavy equipment is used near the septic system. To conserve water, consider installing low-flow plumbing fixtures in your home
- When there are electric and/or mechanical components in your sewage system, it should be evaluated by an expert professional once per year
PERMITTING: A permit from the Township Sewage Enforcement Officer is necessary in order to repair or replace any component of an on-lot system (with the exception of the tank baffle). If you have any questions or want further information, please call Spencer SEO at (717) 989-8439. Percolation and probing testing are essential for all septic drainfield repairs or replacements in order to establish the type of drainfield that is required. Fact Sheet on Sewers and Sewage Disposal District-by-District Breakdown
Expert Tips for Baffle Repair
Receive articles, stories, and videos about repair sent directly to your email! Now is the time to sign up. Repair+ Receive Notifications One perk of working on septic systems for more than 40 years is that the folks I’ve met and worked with are frequently willing to offer images or tales that they find interesting. In this particular instance, my colleague Kim Seipp emailed me a photo of a repair work she had completed in Colorado. Hopefully, everyone who reads this recognizes right away that this is not the appropriate method of repairing or replacing a baffle in a concrete tank.
- These baffles must be the right length and have a space between their top and the bottom of the tank lid to allow for the exchange of gases and the ventilation of the tank.
- Thus, sewage travels through the tank on an irregular course, providing the detention time necessary for bigger particles to be settled out before the effluent is transferred to the final treatment and dispersion section of the system.
- A floating scum blockage is prevented by the intake baffle from clogging the inlet pipe.
- It is necessary to maintain floating scum in the tank, which is composed of oil and soap residue, so that it can be removed when the tank is cleaned.
- A deteriorating concrete baffle at the exit of a septic tank is seen in this photograph.
- Due to the fact that the sanitary tee is connected to the tank’s output pipe by couplings, the person(s) who completed this project had the appropriate concept.
- This baffle will not perform the critical job of providing a relatively clear liquid to the next component of the system since there is no effluent filter in place.
- The concrete around the pipe may require repair, and a rubber gasket may need to be installed retroactively to guarantee that the tank stays watertight and root-free.
- The outlet baffle should be extended to a depth of 25 percent of the operating depth in the tank to ensure proper operation.
As an example, if the tank is 60 inches deep, the baffle would need to be 15 inches longer. I’d be interested in hearing how others might go about mending a baffle in the future. Leave a comment below or send an email to [email protected] with your baffle repair suggestions.
Concrete Septic Tank Baffle – RIDGID Forum
Concerning the Concrete Septic Tank Baffle my guess is you would need to find the company who made the tank and get a baffel from them if one is going to be bought,your septic guy may be able to help you in idenifing who it may have been made by,most likely if I was in your situation, I would considercasting my own baffle, put a sheet of plastic on the ground or a ply wood or on a concrete floor, make a wood form cut some rebar, and make arebar grid andextend them some for a lifting loop throught a section of the form, on the top end,if any weirs were needed, make a form to put them in place, pour some cement that is extra strengh in cement content,let set a weekor two and put in to place,one may need to check for tapers on the side, and so on,but many of the tanks and other smaller precast concrete were made by a smaller concrete compays as a way to do some thing on the off season or to use up batches that were rejected or over ordered,as far as replacing a baffel I have never done it,(I may be wrong but I was under the empression the baffels in my concrete tank are cast in place),but if needed one could form up and cast the baffel in place if casting it and setting it in after the fact would be a problem,acess would seem to me like a possible problem,pictures would be helpfull on seeing exactly what your working with and how it is constructucted, Push sticks/blocks Fingers should be saved.
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Old Septic System Baffle Repair
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| Old Septic System Baffle Repair |
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| Author:mstruttm (FL)Just had my very old septic system inspected and pumped. Turns out the concrete baffles have rotten and fallen into the tank. It’s not really feasible to use PVC tees as new baffles because the tank is so old that it has two clay outlet pipes. I was thinking about building some baffles out of stainless steel similar to the old concrete baffles and fastening them with tapcons to the septic walls. Is this a good idea?The outlet baffle looked like this _/ if you were looking from the top down into the septic tank, with the outlet pipe in between the opening. It probably went down about two feet. The inlet baffle seemed to just be a wall that went from one side of the tank to the other, but I’m not sure how far it went down.Edited 1 times. |
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| Author:Dunbar (KY)Those baffles go to the bottom, and are designed as such to allow the first bay to take on most of the solids, second bay to settle waterborn particulates, third bay to be the finished “clear” effluent that safely distrubutes to the finger system of leaching fields.I haven’t seen John Aldrich “Septic Tank Yank” here in a long time. Anyone know of his whereabouts?His last post was around 318,000 and we’re at 383,000 on this thread.Right about the time I stopped getting emails from him. I hope all is well.-Always be aware of cross-connections in your potable water systems-They could one day harm you and your loved ones.Edited 2 times. |
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| Author:PBwrencher (WI)Tank Yank would be the best source for this question however; from my limited experience this person is looking at replacing that old thing, you could image what the rest it of looks like, it’s lived it’s life and now a new one is needed.10-22-08, 8:18am- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – -3 years before Google started PlumbingSupply.com has been THE best plumbing supplier on the web. Please visit our sponsor |
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| Author:hj (AZ)The outlet baffle is to prevent grease, etc., on top of the water from exiting through the outlet. The inlet baffle goes down to a point a foor or so above the floor to give the influent time to separate. |
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| Author:mstruttm (FL)I understand that the system is very old and will need replacing, but it is still functioning and I would like to get as much life out of it as possible. Now isn’t the best time to be forking out $5,000-$10,000.After the tank was pumped, I could see the outlet baffle at the bottom of the tank and it definately was not long enough to go all the way to the bottom. The pump guy said it only runs down a couple of feet. He told me I shouldn’t really be concerned with the inlet baffle and it was the outlet baffle that was important. I’m just thinking something will be better than nothing so I can get some more life out of the system. |
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| Author:dlh (TX)this isnt a car. i have never heard of anyone repairing a septic tank.i have found it is much better to bite the bullet now than it is to wait. waiting almost always means a larger bill in the end.-PLUMBERS “Protecting The Health Of The Nation” |
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| Author:yonson (SC)My septic guy told me the same thing when my exit collapsed (the exit is most important). He placed a “t” type port at the exit, but mine was PVC. An easy fix. |
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| Author:LemonPlumber (FL)Do you have a scrap or 12″ diameter pvc pipe,two feet long?cut it in half use half at each end tapcon it with the top, at the top of the inlet hole and the outlet four inches or so higher than that.Old culvert pipe.Dead propane cylinder.If you use metal it may decay faster but should give you five years to save up.Good Luck with any rig.You need a new tank. |
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| Author:mstruttm (FL)Ok, I know the tank needs replacing, but it’s not going to hurt by rigging it to last a little longer since the entire system will need to be replaced anyway. I am not doing any more damage by not replacing it now.So, the 12″ PVC sounds like the best idea yet. |
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| Author:PBwrencher (WI)”There is nothing so permanent then something so temporary.”The plumber I served my apprenticeship under would say that when we were called in to make the correct repair after a handyman or homeowner only did a temporary fix that would last sometimes for years.Be honest, it will never get fixed until the system completely craps out.10-23-08, 7:18am- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – -3 years before Google started PlumbingSupply.com has been THE best plumbing supplier on the web. Please visit our sponsor |
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| Author:yonson (SC)”it will never get fixed until the system completely craps out”Pun intended? |
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| Author:mstruttm (FL)I also plan on constructing new concrete lids. Is this ok to do with quickrete conrete mix and rebar? I want to make sure that there is no danger of the lids breaking, which there is with the current lids. |
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| Author:hi (TX)Hello,You may still be helped.The exit T and the baffle are placed to keep solids and greases out of the leach field which will plug the pores and render the leach field inoperative and result in effluent finding its way to the surface.You have a two chamber tank that has made itself a one chamber tank with the collapse of the baffle wall.This is not an infrequent finding during septic inspections done properly.Your best (most effective and cost effective)fix is to place a PVC Tee on the outlet to the box.This keeps the floating solids out of the field.It needs to be fit solidly and leak free to be effective and long lasting.If possible also place an inlet T to force “incoming” waste to go to the bottom rather than float across to the exit of the tank.If the repair exposes the exit of the tank you may also want to include an effluent filter to trap solids before they go to the field. This is a newer design that further reduces material that can plug up the leach field.Be careful with the tanks as they can collapse and may not have enough oxygen to support life inside!Safety is Most important!Here is a article discussing your exact question. The website contains a “wealth” of septic info.Here is another (scroll about 3/4 way down and see the part about the baffle deterioration and repair.) |
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| Author:mstruttm (FL)I mentioned in my first post that using tees is not feasible at the outlet due to there being two clay outlet pipes. I guess I could try to use two tees, but how would I secure them to the clay pipes? |
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| Author:LemonPlumber (FL)You might be better off wrapping the old ones,with rewire making the joint on top then adding a 2″ layer of topping mix.Good Luck.Unless you intend to pour the lid’s six or more inches thick,smaller stone or sand type should be used. |
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| Author:PBwrencher (WI)Don’t you have plumbing codes in Florida where the concrete tank and top must be made of Monolithic Concrete and must have the strength of 2000lbs per sq inch or more so it does not cave in on a poor sole years from now:10-25-08, 8:20am- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – -3 years before Google started PlumbingSupply.com has been THE best plumbing supplier on the web. Please visit our sponsor |
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| Author:redwood (CT)Things are a tad bit lax in Florida IMHO- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – -Since 1995 (3 years before Google started) PlumbingSupply.com has been THE best plumbing supplier on the web. Please visit our sponsor |
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| Author:mstruttm (FL)Quickrete says it is 4000 psi. |
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| Author:rca411 (OK)Can’t you just dig it up some behind the tank, then stub PVC back into the septic tank and glue on a sanitary tee for a new baffle? |
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Acworth Baffle Tee Replacement: Replace Your Septic Baffles – One Way Septic and Sewer
The septic tank baffle tee (also known as a baffle) is a device that may be found at either the inlet or exit of your septic tank. It is made of plastic and has a hole in the center. The goal of these devices is to prevent sewage from entering into pipelines. There are two types of septic tank baffles: inlet baffles and exit baffles, which are called after the locations in your septic tank where they are installed. In both cases, the idea is to simply channel waste water around your septic tank while also removing the particles from the wastewater.
Its goal is to aid in the effective flow of wastewater into your tank while avoiding disruption of the scum layer.
As previously stated, the outlet baffle is extremely significant since it is responsible for preventing sediments from entering your septic tank and reaching the leach field.
Because of the nature of the task that baffles do for your septic system, they become worn down over time and eventually decline in performance.
You may receive a free estimate from your friends at One Way Septic to get started, and you can learn more about this critical septic system component by continuing to read below.
Signs Your Baffle Tee Needs to Be Replaced
Clearly, baffles are a crucial component of your home’s septic system, and there are a few signs that they may need to be replaced that you should be aware of.
- The baffle looks to be significantly damaged
- The baffle isn’t operating at its greatest potential
- Back-up of sewage in your house or office building You’ve noticed horrible, sewage-like scents emanating from your home
- A sewage backup has been discovered on your property
To be sure, if you’re unclear about whether or not your baffle tee needs to be changed, give us a call and we’ll arrange an examination for you!
Why Partner With Our Local Septic Company?
Assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A total of more than 30 years of combined experience Response Times That Are Incredibly Quick Services that are centered on the customer
When Should I Replace My Baffle Tee?
It is possible that the reasons for when one should replace theirs will differ from tank to tank because they are different. Generally speaking, the answer is straightforward: if the baffle has been broken or is progressively decaying, it’s generally a good idea to replace it. In the end, that degeneration will be the factor that prohibits it from accomplishing its goals and objectives. You should replace your baffles regardless of whether or not you’ve observed a drop in overall performance.
Preventative maintenance is always the best course of action to take in order to avoid encountering worse problems in the future, as previously stated.
Work With an Experienced Septic Company in Acworth
Whether you’re looking to perform preventative maintenance on your system or have a baffle tee that’s in desperate need of replacement, One Way Septic is proud to offer a wide range of septic services, including emergency septic services, to residents and business owners in the greater Philadelphia area. Throughout our service region, from Lawrenceville to Stone Mountain and beyond, you will find our professionals ready to meet your requirements. Get in touch with us right away!
Get In Touch With One Way Septic
No matter if you’re looking to perform preventative maintenance on your system or you’ve discovered that your baffle tee is in desperate need of replacement, One Way Septic is proud to offer a variety of septic services, including emergency septic services, to both residential and commercial customers. Lawrenceville to Stone Mountain and beyond are within our service region, with our professionals ready to meet your requirements. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us now!