Septic System Installation
The Basics of Septic System Installation
Choosing a Tank
The first consideration when choosing a tank is size. They typically start out at 300 gallons and go all the way up to 5,000. A single person living alone is probably ok with a 300-gallon tank. Families with three people tend to need around 1,000 gallons, but this will also vary based on the family’s habits and how often guests are present. Naturally, large families, as well as commercial and industrial spaces, will need larger tanks. An experienced technician can help you decide what size is best for your needs.
There are various materials to choose from, including concrete, steel, fiberglass, and plastic. Your local codes will determine what’s allowable by law. Your habits, the soil, and the water may also preclude some of the options. Most discussions these days come down to concrete vs. fiberglass.
Choosing a Drain Field
The tank will disperse effluent, which is water that is still dirty, but is safe enough to be returned to the earth, where the bacteria in the soil finish the job of cleaning it. Most systems use a leach field or a drain field, which consists of several pipes in a pit or trench, surrounded by gravel and sand. This allows the water to be evenly dispersed, so it can be absorbed better.
Local Building Codes
There are laws set at every level, from country, to state, county, and city. The regulations will dictate what materials you can use, how deep the system must be installed, how far away from the home it must be, and much more. Failure to comply with all the regulations can leave you with heavy fines, as well as the expense of tearing out or repairing your system. Always work with an expert who knows the area and the laws.
Contact CMAC Septic Service for Your Septic System Installation
Managing a septic system installation can be overwhelming, but our experienced partner techs at CMAC Septic Service make it look easy because they do it every single day. Let us walk you through the options and help you choose the right system for your needs and budget. Our partner techs also handle the install, from start to finish, with quality results. Call us at (256) 474-8281 to schedule today.