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- Remove and dispose of the tank at an approved site (normally a landfill). Crush the tank completely and backfill. The bottom must be broken to ensure it will drain water. Fill the tank with granular material or some other inert, flowable material such as concrete.
What do you backfill a plastic septic tank with?
The preferred material for backfill surrounding and covering the tank is a sand/gravel mixture as described below.
How do you backfill a septic tank?
Backfill evenly all around tank using a sand / gravel mixture. b. Mound soil over septic tank in order to drain away from tank and allow for settling soil. 6” of native soil may be used for mounding.
How do you keep a plastic septic tank from floating?
How can you prevent this from happening?
- Fill the tank with water after it’s pumped to keep weight in the tank and prevent floating.
- Divert rainwater runoff away from your system.
- Avoid pumping the tank during wet seasons if there is a risk that the tank could float.
How deep can you bury a plastic septic tank?
Whatever the case may be, knowing the depth of your septic tank can be a difficult thing given the circumstances, especially if you don’t know where the lids are. The general rule of thumb is that most septic tanks can be buried anywhere from four inches to four feet underground.
What kind of sand do you use for a septic system?
Septic sand is used as an effective filtration system in modern septic systems and sewage mounds. It is produced from some of the highest quality sand & gravel, which is washed and finely screened.
What can you put around a septic tank?
Put plastic sheets, bark, gravel or other fill over the drainfield. Reshape or fill the ground surface over the drainfield and reserve area. However, just adding topsoil is generally OK if it isn’t more than a couple of inches. Make ponds on or near the septic system and the reserve area.
Can you build over an abandoned leach field?
Overall, it is not recommended to build over your leach filed and you should also not put anything heavy on top of it, such as parking a vehicle.
Do plastic septic tanks collapse?
Guide to Plastic or Fiberglass Septic Tanks Fiberglass or Plastic Septic Tanks: are very resistant to some of the problems occurring with concrete (cracks) or steel (rust) septic or home made (collapse) septic tanks.
What happens when a septic tank collapse?
Collapse of a septic tank Covers can crack, or slowly disintegrate, and are most definitely not designed to be load bearing. Sometimes the walls of the cesspool itself can collapse. This is particularly a danger in older tanks that were constructed out of cinder blocks, instead of precast concrete rings.
What causes a septic tank to float?
A septic tank may also float out of place if it’s pumped while the ground is flooded. This can damage inlet and outlet pipes. Your system does need to be pumped as soon as possible after the water table is lowered. Before this happens, don’t drive any machinery near the septic area to avoid compressing the soil.
Why do septic tanks float?
All tanks have the potential of being floated out of the ground due to forces acting on the tank in saturated soil. At the gas station, the tank hole was excavated into relatively solid or dense soil and then backfilled with a less dense material that will allow water to collect in the excavation.
» Installation Instructions
Underground Plastic Tank Installation|Above Ground Plastic Tank Installation is a type of underground plastic tank installation.
Underground Plastic Tank Installation
EXCAVATION
- Choose a location with adequate subsoil drainage. Allow enough space around the tank for the backfill to be properly placed and compacted around the lower half of the tank Provision of a well-compacted or undisturbed bedding of sand/gravel combination or clean, granular soil: 6 inches or more in rock terrain, depending on the kind of terrain. Form the bedding to fit the underside of the tank.
SETTING UP THE TANK
- Input and outlet orientations, as well as shipping damage, are all recorded on the Warranty Form.
- To level the inlet and exit, place a pipe level across the access cover. It is critical that the outflow is located below the level of the entrance. CAUTION: Use caution when handling. A heavy hit, particularly in cold weather, might cause the tank to break.
IN ORDER TO AVOID FLOTATION OR DISTORTION
- If poly tanks are pumped out during periods of high water table, they run the danger of floating or distorting at the base. During really rainy weather, keep the tank just partly full. Installation of a vertical length of 4′′ perforated drainage pipe beside the tank with a detachable cover above grade level to monitor the water table level after it has been filled is recommended. Attach the label provided on the standpipe. Avoid pumping the tank out below the water table at all costs. Drainage lines should be run from under the tank out to daylight and downward away from it if the tank is on sloping terrain.
BACKFILLING
- It is required that the tank be refilled when it is either empty or less than 30 percent full. The backfilling technique does not necessitate the use of water. If the tank has been filled for leak testing, empty it to 30 percent or less before refilling it. Backfill with a maximum of 12′′ layers of granular soil or clean fill and stomp the dirt to ensure uniform distribution. THERE WILL BE NO CLAY BACKFILL. The backfill must be correctly put and compacted around the lower part of the tank, which is very important. Do not place the machine compact near the tank. It is not recommended to dump significant amounts of fill near to the tank. Check the level of the tank on a regular basis. Make certain that the backfill under the inlet and output pipe connectors is compacted. Build up the support beneath the pipelines to prevent probable pipe breakage caused by the settling of backfill over time. If the tank has become heated due to exposure to sunshine, leave it to cool before continuing with the backfilling. If there is no riser, waterproof tape should be used to seal the lids.
CONNECTIONS FOR PIPE:
- Make connections to the tank only when it is improbable that the tank will shift throughout the remainder of the backfilling. Rubber couplings of the type “Fernco” should be used
- All water tanks must be vented through pipe with a minimum diameter of 2 inches
- To allow pipes to deflect with tank expansion (in the case of water tanks), 90-degree elbows should be installed at output bulkhead connections. Make use of at least a 3-foot-long flexible hose from the pumps to allow for movement (if they are installed).
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS FOR INSTALLATION:
- Tanks are used for burying the dead. For above-ground installations, consult the manufacturer. In the absence of special approval, tanks are designed to withstand up to TWO FEET of earth cover at 300 lbs./square foot. A SUPERTANK is capable of withstanding four feet of earth cover and 480 pounds per square foot of floor space
- FLOUT DOSING TANKS are capable of withstanding four feet of earth cover and 480 pounds per square foot of floor space
- A FLOUT DOSING TANK is capable of withstanding four feet of earth cover and four pounds per square foot of floor space
- Do not place yourself in the line of moving cars or heavy equipment. Keep a safe distance from big roots or rocks. Placement of the tank should be avoided in locations with a high water table. Use a reinforced tank in areas with a high water table
- Avoid putting the tank in damp clay soils
- And Surface runoff should be diverted away from the tank area. Fresh backfill has pores in it. Runoff might clog the area around the tank.
Download the Underground Tank Installation PDF Note: Installation instructions may differ depending on the jurisdiction in where the tank is installed. If you live outside of British Columbia, check with the factory. NOTE: If the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed exactly, the warranty will be voided.
Above Ground Plastic Tank Installation
WHAT KIND OF FOUNDATION IS REQUIRED?
- It is necessary to have a sturdy, flat base that is continuous under the whole tank
- Sand, fine gravel, clean soil, cement, or boards that are adequately supported and precisely spaced can be used as a base. Remove any pebbles that are bigger than half an inch in diameter. After filling the tank, check to see that it has not sunk and is still upright.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE A PLATFORM? Although it is possible, the tank bottom must be continually maintained, for example, with two layers of 3-4 inch plywood nailed together and to a sufficient support framework. In the sake of safety, it is recommended that an engineer be consulted. It is important to remember that the weight of water is 8.33 pounds per US gallon and 10 pounds per Canadian gallon. WHAT IS THE WEIGHT OF THE TANKS?
- The weight of above-ground tanks may be approximated by dividing the gallon capacity by five, which yields the following result: For example, a 1000-gallon tank will weigh around 200 pounds. For subterranean tanks, multiply the gallon capacity by three to get the volume.
DO THEY APPEAR TO BE EASY TO MANAGE?
- Almost all of the tanks may be transported using a pickup truck or a trailer. Considering that polyethylene is a fairly robust substance, it is doubtful that any damage would occur during cautious handling and transit. Extreme cold weather necessitates extra caution due to the fact that the tank will become harder and more fragile.
Is it possible to put pressure in the tank? NO! At all times, polyethylene tanks must be exposed to the outside environment or vented. Because they are mounted at a greater height, they can be utilized to supply a head of water, but they are not capable of being exposed to any external pressure sources. If required, install a float valve on the intake line. WHAT ABOUT THE PRODUCTION OF ALGAE? The entry of light into the tank encourages the growth of algae. Keeping the tank away from direct sunlight and using a darker tank color, as well as sanitation, can help to keep algae development under control.
- Tanks are designed expressly for usage above or below ground, depending on their intended function. Above-ground tanks feature smooth sides and are exclusively intended for installation on the ground. The tanks may, however, be lowered into the ground to a depth equal to 20 percent of the tank’s height in order to lower the tank’s above-ground profile
WHAT ACCESSORIES ARE INCLUDED WITH THE TANK?
- The bottom of the majority of above-ground water tanks is equipped with a 1 inch or 2 inch female threaded pipe connection, while the top is equipped with a 16 inch access cap. Breather valves are included into the access caps, allowing air to enter and exit when the water level changes. Making the necessary connections can be accomplished with the assistance of a local plumber or plumbing supply company. Check to verify that the bulkhead drain/outlet fittings are securely fastened to the tank. As a result, while tightening external connections, the lock nut on the fittings features a reverse thread to prevent it from coming free. Hand tighten threads several rounds to ensure that the threads are aligned and that the possibility of stripping is minimized. When the tank is completely full, check for leaks and tighten only enough to prevent any leaks. Excessive tightening may result in the threads of the pipe being stripped or the bulkhead fittings being cracked, requiring replacement. Additional connections for intake pipes are provided on an as-needed basis in response to client requests. Pipe Sizing Chart may be used to determine approximate pipe sizes.
DOES SUNLIGHT HAVE ANY IMPACT ON THE TANKS?
- Over time, exposure to sunshine causes the plastic to harden, making it more prone to shattering if the tank is subjected to a significant amount of force. Almost all of Premier Plastics’ tanks are treated with a UV inhibitor, which helps to reduce the hardening process. Tanks that are darker in color or black will likely survive longer.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT COLLECTING RAINWATER?
- Rainwater collection is a good technique to bridge periods of limited water supply. The usage of a filter basket is recommended to screen out leaves, twigs, and other material that may enter the gutter system from the eaves troughs. Boiling or disinfection of water is required for all uses including drinking, cooking, and dishwashing. It is possible to use clean rainwater for large-volume applications such as toilet flushing and laundry, showering, cleaning automobiles, and watering the yard. A ‘Pneumatic Dipstick’ level gauge from Premier Plastics may be used to monitor the water level in a container.
WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE WARRANTY?
- However, you can expect many more years of service from your above-ground tanks, which are covered by an eight-year warranty. All underground water tanks and septic tanks are covered by a ten-year manufacturer’s guarantee. Polyethylene will persist practically indefinitely in the subsurface environment. Fill out the warranty form and send it back to Premier Plastics Inc.
ARE THE TANKS SAFE FOR USING AS DRINKING WATER STORAGE?
- No. Our food-grade polyethylene tanks are built in accordance with FDA rules 21 CFR 177.1520(c)3.1, NSF Standard 61, and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) 6861-05
- And, yes, they are recyclable. It is, of course, your job to ensure that the water in the tank is of high quality. Water quality information may be received from a variety of sources, including water delivery corporations, well drillers, and public health authorities. A new tank’s bottom may include small particles of polyethylene that have been cleaned but not disinfected. Factory tanks are clean but not disinfected. These are created while cutting holes for fittings and will float to the surface when filled or can be cleaned out
- They are created when cutting holes for fittings.
WILL I BE ABLE TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE IN TASTE?
- Ideally, your pipework should be linked in such a manner that incoming water is constantly flushing through the tank
- Water that has been sitting in any form of vented container for an extended amount of time will develop a “flat” flavor. This is due to the fact that the water has lost its ability to hold air. This may be partially remedied by half-filling a closed jar with water and rapidly shaking it to introduce air back into it
HOW CAN A STORAGE TANK ASSIST A SLOW PRODUCING BUSINESS SUCCESS?
- Numerous customers are reporting a decrease in the flow rate from their water wells. Well pumps are often designed to generate water “on demand,” which means that if your bathtub fills at a rate of 5 gallons per minute, the well must supply water at a rate of 5 gallons per minute for the whole time the bath is running. Using a storage tank, short times of high demand may be met by drawing from the tank rather than straight from the well. If a storage tank is employed, a household consuming 400 gallons per day would require their well to generate no more than 400 gallons over the course of 24 hours. On average, a well only has to produce half a gallon per minute for 24 hours to fulfill a family’s water demands. A popular technique is to drop a truckload of water down a slow-producing well in order to speed up production. There would be no loss of water due to seepage if all water deliveries were stored into a storage tank, resulting in cost savings. Your local well driller can provide you with system sizing and planning information.
HOW DOES IT EXPERIENCE IF MY TANK FREEZES?
- It is improbable that a tank that is just partly filled will rupture. The ice will cause the walls to bulge as a result of the pressure. Only over prolonged periods of cold weather can a tank become prone to freezing. Piping should be shielded or drained during freezing weather since the lesser volume of water in the piping will freeze more quickly and may cause the pipe to split. Consult with a contractor who is knowledgeable with the conditions
- The tank can be insulated with a waterproof insulation or housed in an insulated shed if the risk of freezing is high. An underground tank provides the best protection against freezing conditions. It will also help to keep the water cold throughout the hot months.
Septic Tank Installation Best Practices
Dennis Hallahan, P.E., posted a message on For a high-quality septic tank installation, proper excavation and bedding techniques must be followed closely. The optimal methods for establishing a septic tank are outlined in this section of the guide.
Excavation:
Before installing the tank, make sure that the site has been adequately dug and that the base has been leveled. The length and breadth of the excavation should be sufficient to allow for appropriate compaction and backfilling, as well as, most significantly, to offer a safe working environment for the construction team. Prior to establishing the tank, the heel of the bucket can be used to compress the excavation bottom before the tank is set.
Setting the Septic Tank:
The septic tank should be lowered into the hole with care and precision. Ensure that the tank is level in both directions and that it is level in both directions as needed.
Backfill and Compaction:
The backfilling of the tank should be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. The backfilling of Infiltrator’s IM-Series tanks may be done with native soil in lifts of 12 inches on all sides of the tank when the tanks are installed.
Fill up any gaps between bucket lifts of 12″ and by walking through the dirt surrounding the tank to make it more compacted. Tees should be installed at the prescribed places, and risers should be erected in accordance with the plan and the manufacturer’s instructions as well.
Cover:
Following correct backfill and compacting of the septic tank, topsoil should be placed up to the final grade and positive drainage should be provided away from the septic tank. In addition, the land should be seeded to reduce erosion and channel surface water away from the site. For further information on septic tank installation, please refer to our video collection or the Infiltrator IM-Series Septic Tank General Installation Instructions in our Online Resource Center, both of which are available for free.
Consult the local health department or permitting authorities if you are unclear about what is required for a given location.
About the Author: Dennis Hallahan, P.E.Technical Director
Founder and Technical Director of Infiltrator Water Technologies, Dennis F. Hallahan, P.E, is a professional engineer. With over twenty-eight years of expertise in the design and installation of on-site wastewater treatment systems, Dennis is well-qualified to lead this team. On-site wastewater treatment systems are the subject of several articles he has written for industry periodicals, and he has given several talks around the country on the science and basics of on-site wastewater treatment systems.
- Besides developing system size charts for national and international approvals, the department also aids clients and field representatives in the development, implementation, and evaluation of big, dispersed systems.
- Dennis holds a professional engineer license in the state of Connecticut.
- Aside from that, Dennis is the holder of various patents for on-site wastewater products.
- If you have any concerns concerning this blog article, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Plastic septic tanks
I’m certain that one of these elements was not followed throughout the installation since there was too much chance for error: whistling I looked up the installation instructions and found them to be as follows: 5. EXTERIOR BACKFILLING WORK A WARNING: BE CAREFUL. Tank should be filled with water as you backfill it, maintaining the water level even with the backfill, and leveling the tank as you go to avoid a possible collapse. B. Backfill with 12″ layers of material, compacting between each layer.
- Tamp and compress the backfill material beneath the inlet and outflow pipes.
- – 6.
- Backfilling blue BRUISER tanks and white cistern tanks with native soil is permissible, and the tanks may be left empty while the soil is being re-filled with it.
- After installation, BRUISER tanks and cistern tanks should be filled to a quarter of their capacity.
- The sand/gravel mixture should be a combination of sand and gravel with a particle size of no more than 1-1/2″ and no more than 50% of the particle size of 1/4″.
- Any wood, masonry debris, silt, or clay should be removed from the fill material.
- BE AWARE THAT FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE POINTS BELOW WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY.
It is possible that the tank could collapse and its contents will spill out.
Tanks are not immune to fires in any way.
It is not permissible to place any tank in the way of cars or heavy equipment.
If a yellow or black septic tank is drained as part of routine maintenance, it should be refilled as soon as possible.
It is permissible to leave the spherical 300 and 500 gallon tanks empty.
F.
Where approved by local standards, blue BRUISER tanks, white cistern tanks, and 300 or 500 gallon spherical tanks can be utilized for holding or pumping applications.
Yellow septic tanks and black septic tanks are not permitted to be used for the storage of drinking water.
Keep sharp items away from the tank, as they might pierce it and produce a leak.
In any other situation, Norwesco strongly warns against the usage of a plastic subterranean tank! Such applications would void any express or implied guarantee provided by Norwesco on the product. Norwesco shall in no way be liable for any indirect or consequential damages of any kind.
Septic Tank Manufacturing — Rahn Sanitary Service
The excavation for the septic tank must be approximately 24″ longer and broader in diameter than the tank measurements if you are doing the installation yourself. Installing the septic tank on a level, secure foundation that will not settle is essential. It is necessary that the bottom of the hole be level. If there are rocks visible in the tank hole, then sand or pea gravel should be used to fill up the hole. It is important to backfill the earth around the tank gently and uniformly around all four sides in order to ensure that the tank does not shift during construction.
- When backfilling around the concrete riser, extreme caution should be exercised.
- In the septic tank, the inlet and outlet connections have already been fitted.
- Installing a watertight manhole riser that extends to the ground surface or above is required for a septic tank installation.
- A properly installed and weighted septic tank, or the installation of an anti-buoyancy device, is required if the septic tank is to be put in an area with high ground water levels.
Septic System Installation Archives
Homestake Engineering was in charge of the system’s design. Plastics Inc. is the supplier for NAP aggregates and plastics. Plastics Inc. is the tank manufacturer (Infiltrator Tanks) Weld County is located in the United States. We started by identifying the hole in the foundation wall that had been left by the mudman, Effran. This was the first step in the process. We cemented the cleanout and raised the cap to 6 inches above the grade. An image of the 1000-gallon tank being lifted out of the earth is shown below.
- Here’s a picture of the tanks that have been buried in the earth.
- The tanks must be leveled before use!
- Within this pump tank is the 1/2-horsepower Liberty Pump, which is responsible for pumping the effluent water to the field.
- This is the 2′′ supply line from the pump tank to the valve nest region, as shown in the diagram.
- In order to deliver an equal quantity of effluent to the four fields, this must be leveled.
- This valve should be installed at the point where the flow rate from the pump to the valve area is the highest.
- This field includes four systems, each of which has eight lines that are 100 feet long.
- It is critical that the headers and laterals (lines) are installed level, and that they remain level throughout their length.
Laterals must be at least 2 inches in width. Zones 3 and 4 are shown below. We have ‘bedded’ the lines in readiness for inspection by Weld County and the Designing Engineer, which will take place shortly. Another successful system was installed by the following individuals:
Engineered septic System Archives
Homestake Engineering was in charge of the system’s layout. Plastics Inc. is the supplier for NAP aggregates and PVC. Plastics Inc. is the tank supplier (Infiltrator Tanks) Weld County is located in the state of Wisconsin. We started by identifying the hole in the foundation wall that had been left by Effran, the mudman. This was the first step in the process. It took us six inches above grade to glue and cap the cleanout. Taking the 1000 gallon tank out of the earth is depicted in this photograph.
- An image of the tanks buried in the earth may be seen here: Please take note of the electric wires that are really buried under the main line and that are being pushed back so that we may backfill the area surrounding the first tank.
- An image of the 500-gallon pump tank, with the SJE Rhombus serving as a control box/alarm combination in the lower right corner.
- That paver in the backdrop happens to be where the pump is located at the moment.
- The valve nest is located in this location.
- Take note of the plumber’s valve that is installed before the valves on the pipes.
- An image of the first two zones of a drip irrigation field is shown below.
- They must also be at least 2 feet apart and no deeper than 30 inches or any shallower than 12 inches, among other requirements.
- The drip field is seen in yet another image.
- Zoning 3 and 4 are seen below.
- The following companies have successfully implemented systems:
Why You Should Upgrade To A PolyMaster Septic Tank.
The PolyMaster Septic Tank is the finest alternative to standard concrete septic tanks, according to us. Continue reading our information so that you can make an informed decision about which septic tank is best for your needs and circumstances. Making the decision on the best septic tank for your farm or property might be a bit of a pain. Those of you who have ever had to break down, or fill in, a concrete septic tank will attest to the fact that the procedure is literally a pain due to the number of hours you’ll spend hammering away at the tank.
These days, there are a plethora of excellent polyethylene septic tank solutions that are less complicated to maintain, repair, and install. Continue reading to learn all you need to know about septic tanks, or give us a call at 1300 326 453 if you have any more questions.
What is a Septic Tank?
A septic system is a method of treating wastewater on-site. It consists of an underground tank, connecting pipes, and a natural bacteria process to treat the wastewater, among other components. It is customary for your septic system to be located in the yard outside of your home. Septic tanks, which are commonly found in rural locations that do not have access to linked sewer lines, are available in a variety of designs and sizes to accommodate varied needs. All septic tanks separate solid waste from sludge, scum, and liquid waste to generate effluent, which is subsequently discharged into the soil through a system of underground pipes.
How a Septic Tank System Works
The waste from the residence is channeled into the septic tank, which normally has two chambers to accommodate the waste. The liquid waste flows readily through to the second chamber, while the solid waste is retained in the first chamber, where it is decomposed by natural bacteria that have been introduced into the system. When the solids decompose, they progressively turn into liquids and go to the next chamber in the process. When the second chamber is completely filled with liquid, the effluent is transferred from the tank to a drain, which discharges the effluent into the surrounding soil.
It is preferable to speak with your local council in order to determine the regulations in this area.
It is also necessary to consider the soil type into which the effluent is being discharged in order to determine the optimum or minimum square metres that the drain should be installed inside.
Types of Septic Tanks
Despite the fact that there are several methods for storing and treating wastewater, there are primarily two types of wastewater tanks that are commercially available: concrete tanks and polyethylene tanks. Both tanks are effective, but they each have their own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Concrete Septic Tanks
Concrete tanks, despite the fact that they have been in use for many years and are proven to survive for a long time, might fracture and leak if they are not properly maintained. Concrete tanks are durable and may survive for a long period of time if they are properly maintained.
Disadvantages of a Concrete tank
- If concrete septic tanks are not properly maintained, they will degrade over time and fail. They are prone to cracking, which compromises their strength and integrity, as well as enabling roots to permeate the tank
- And In order to increase the strength of concrete tanks, reinforcing steel is used throughout the production process. The result is that they are susceptible to rust and corrosion, which can result in leaks and other problems as described above
- Cracks that have developed in the tanks have the potential to become an environmental health hazard. Concrete tanks are large and heavy, and they must be handled cautiously with specialized equipment in order to avoid damage. When concrete tanks are broken, it is more difficult and expensive to restore them. Because of their size and weight, concrete tanks are difficult to remove if they are damaged or need to be replaced, and they are expensive to dispose of. Concrete tanks are significantly more costly than polyethylene tanks.
PolyMaster Septic Tanks
Poly tanks have gotten easier to produce (with the necessary equipment) and their design has advanced significantly as a result of technological advancements. The following are examples of poly tanks:
- Installation is simple, with most units weighing less than 250kg. They may be manhandled into a trench, and delivery is frequently accomplished with a truck that is fitted with a crane, which makes delivery quite simple. Poly tanks are delivered as a single component that is ready to attach. Because poly tanks are lighter and more maneuverable than concrete tanks, they are able to be put in locations where concrete tanks are inaccessible. They are less susceptible to breaking than steel tanks, and they are entirely rust resistant. Polyethylene tanks are less expensive than concrete tanks.
With a weight of under 250kg, it’s a breeze to put together. In many cases, they can be manhandled into a trench, and delivery is usually accomplished by truck that is fitted with a crane, which makes delivery extremely simple. Unlike steel tanks, poly tanks are delivered in a single piece that is ready to be connected. For the same reason that poly tanks are lighter and more maneuverable than concrete tanks, they may be put in locations where concrete tanks are inaccessible. They are less susceptible to breaking than steel tanks, and they are entirely rust proof.
Maintaining Your Septic System
In any case, count on having your septic tank examined on an annual basis, as well as pumping it at least once every six months, regardless of the system you have in place. It is possible that solid waste matter will block the pump and cause harm to the drain field if the pump is not operated on a regular basis.
Avoid Flushing Certain Common Household Items
Due to the fact that septic systems must be cared for, it is possible that you may need to be extra cautious about what you flush down the toilet. When commonly flushed household objects are flushed down a toilet with a septic system, they can clog the toilet, produce backups, and even cause the system to fail completely. The damage can range from minor to major, resulting in not only pain and headache but also a significant financial outlay. Items that should not be flushed down the toilet if you have a septic tank are as follows:
- Cleaning supplies
- Flushable wipes
- Paper towels
- Tissues
- Bandages
- Coffee grinds
- Cigarettes
Polymaster Septic Tanks are available from Ag-Superstore in a wide variety of sizes. If you have any queries regarding Septic Tanks or anything else relating to agriculture and farming, please give us a call on 1300 326 453 for a good old-fashioned chat.
How Long Does Septic Tank Last?
Concrete tanks have a lifespan that is determined by the manufacturer and the year in which they were constructed. The regulations governing tank manufacture differ from one state to the next. A sort of on-site sewage facility is represented by a septic tank. This type of toilet is commonly seen in rural locations that are not linked to the municipal sewer system. After 23 years in the septic tank maintenance field, I’ve discovered that the vast majority of people are completely unaware of how their septic system works or how to properly maintain one.
Septic Tank Types and Design
The manufacturer of the concrete tanks, as well as the year in which they were constructed, will determine the tank’s lifespan. The regulations governing tank manufacture vary from state to state. A sort of on-site sewage treatment system is represented by septic tanks. It is common for them to be utilized in rural locations where there is no access to a sewage system. As a septic tank technician with 23 years of experience, I have discovered that most people do not understand how their septic system functions or how to properly maintain one.
Average LifeSpan of a Septic Tank
Photograph courtesy of mrrooter.com Tanks made of plastic or fiberglass will survive nearly indefinitely if they are erected with care and attention to detail. Almost 90% of the failures we observe are caused by poor tank installation depth or improper backfilling of the space around the tank. If they are buried too deeply, the weight of the dirt on top of the tank might cause the tank to become twisted and even shatter if it is not properly supported. Depending on the manufacturer, different depths are recommended for tank installation.
- If, on the other hand, rocky soil is used to backfill around the tank, the pebbles may eventually rub a hole in or puncture the tank over time.
- The regulations governing tank manufacture differ from one state to the next.
- As the cast iron deteriorates, it often shuts up, similar to a blocked artery, delaying or completely stopping the flow of blood through them.
- Tanks were frequently fitted with a plastic baffle, which was connected to the tank walls, throughout the 1980s and 1990s, in order to remedy difficulties with concrete and cast iron baffles.
PVC pipe baffles are used in the construction of concrete tanks constructed between the mid-1990s and the present day. Plastic and fiberglass tanks, on the other hand, will survive indefinitely.
Factors Affecting Septic Tank Lifespan
Photograph courtesy of chicagotribune.com The human being, as is true of most things in this world, is the biggest threat to a tank’s longevity. When a tank is erected and maintained properly, it will often endure for several decades, provided that it is protected from human error and natural disasters during that period. Natural disasters include things like when a tree falls on top of a tank or when a major lightning strike occurs (something I’ve only witnessed once in my life). Tanks are susceptible to cracking or breaking in earthquake-prone areas.
- It is possible that the top of the tank will break or collapse in due to human error, such as when individuals decide to drive or park heavy things such as equipment or cars over the tank’s top, even if the tank is underground.
- At the very least, this makes it difficult to keep the tank in good condition.
- It’s also crucial to be aware of the kind of trees that have been grown in the region where your septic system will be installed.
- More information on this issue may be found on our BBBseptic.com blog.
Signs of an Aging Septic Tank
Cleanwateraction.org is the source of this image. Cracks, fractures, and punctures on the outside of tanks are frequently caused by pebbles or hidden sharp objects, although you won’t normally notice them unless you dig up and uncover the tank and examine it closely. The tank’s inside can frequently reveal signs of deterioration that would otherwise go undetected. The most important signal is the water level. If the level is very high, it may signal that there is an issue with the tank’s egress section, the distribution box, or the lateral line system itself.
If you have an older tank with baffles that are not made of PVC, you may notice that the plastic baffles are beginning to peel off or have fully fallen off.
Both of these forms of degradation may be remedied by having a professional install a new PVC baffle assembly in their place.
Most of the time, this is only cosmetic and should not be a source of concern. Professional maintenance of your system on a regular basis will help you to catch the majority of issues before they become life-threatening.
Proper Septic Tank Maintenance
Credit for the image goes to dropinanddecorate.org. The installation and maintenance of septic systems varies from state to state in the United States, owing to differing norms and regulations. This is largely impacted by the soil types found in different places, ranging from sandy soil near the gulf coast to black dirt in the north, as well as the moist circumstances found in the lowlands and the dry conditions found in the southwest. Fortunately, there are some easy recommendations that apply to the majority of situations, such as pumping out your tank on a regular basis and remembering not to flush any more solid objects or trash down your drains than strictly required.
- This implies that typical usage will result in a solid buildup that will need to be pumped away in order to prevent them from accumulating in the absorption region and compromising the soil’s capacity to cleanse the water when it re-enters the natural water tables.
- When employing a septic system in an area where the water comes from a spring or well, it is important to make it easier for the natural bacteria to proliferate.
- It’s also crucial to remember that the use of antibacterial soaps, bleach, detergents, and cleaners, as well as various drugs and medical treatments such as chemotherapy, may inhibit or prevent the growth of germs.
- Some septic system bacteria therapies are effective in alleviating these problems.
Summary
Photo credit: dropinanddecorate.org (taken from their website). Septic systems are established and maintained in a variety of ways depending on the state in which you live in the United States. In large part, this is determined by the soil types found in different places, ranging from sandy soil along the gulf coast to black dirt in the north, and by the moist circumstances found in the lowlands or the dry conditions found in the southwest. Fortunately, there are some easy recommendations that apply to the majority of situations, such as regularly pumping out your tank and remembering not to drop any more solid objects or rubbish down your drains than strictly required.
The result of this is that typical usage will result in a solid buildup that will need to be pumped away in order to prevent them from accumulating in the absorption region and compromising the soil’s capacity to cleanse the water when it re-enters the natural water table.
It is recommended that those who use a septic system in areas where the water supply is provided by a spring or well make it simpler for the naturally occurring bacteria to flourish.
As a side note, it’s crucial to remember that the usage of antibacterial products such as antibacterial soaps and disinfectants, as well as some drugs and medical treatments such as chemotherapy, will inhibit or prevent the growth of bacteria in the environment.
Some septic system bacteria treatments can help to alleviate these problems. We are a BBB Accredited Septic and Portable Toilet Contractor.