When Is it Necessary to Replace Your Septic Tank?

One of the main components of a septic system is the tank. These large containers are buried under ground and hold the waste and water from your drains, breaking down solids and releasing effluent to enter a drain field. Installing the septic tank is one of the most labor-intensive projects of building a septic system – it requires digging a large trench, hauling a giant tank onto your property, placing it in the ground and connecting it to all necessary pipes. Replacing a tank is not cheap – which is why most homeowners want to make their tanks last as long as possible.

Longevity of Septic Tanks

Most septic tanks can last for decades – many last 50-70 years or more before they need replacement if they are properly maintained. Many of the older septic tanks were made from concrete, which will eventually deteriorate and crack, but can last for 50 years or more. Most modern septic tanks are made from plastic or fiberglass, which are less prone to leaks and corrosion.

Signs a Septic Tank Needs Replacement

When effluent is able to leak out of the tank, it usually needs to be replaced. It is difficult to patch or repair a septic tank, so complete replacement is the best option. Routine inspections by a septic pro can alert you to leaking issues. Other signs to look for are soil erosion, wet areas, greener grass or sewage odors near your septic tank area.

While replacing a septic tank is a large expenditure, most homeowners will only need it done at the same home once in their lifetime, if at all. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance can help reduce corrosion and extend the life of a septic tank, making it a wise investment.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

Signs You May Need a New Septic Tank

When there is a problem with your septic tank, it is not always obvious. Buried underground, your septic tank is out of sight and out of mind most of the time. However, while these tanks can last for decades, they can also become damaged. If they crack or have other issues, you could have raw sewage leaking into the ground around your home and will need a tank replacement immediately. Here are a few signs that your septic tank may need replacing.

  • Erosion near your tank. If you notice the ground eroding or sinking near your septic tank, you should call a septic professional. You may have a leak in your tank or a sewer line may be broken.
  • Unusual plant growth. Raw sewage can make great fertilizer – if the grass is particularly green around your tank or seems to grow quicker than the rest of your lawn, you may have a leak.
  • Wet ground and bad odors. In some cases, the ground may be wet around the septic tank if there is a leak. Looking for soggy spots or pooling water. If there is this much leakage, you may also notice bad odors near your tank area, which is never a good sign when you have a septic system.

To know whether your septic tank needs repair or complete replacement, you will need a professional inspection. Never try to enter your septic tank on your own; it is dangerous due to the location and the deadly gases that can buildup inside the tank. Call a septic service professional and have your system inspected to find out where the problem is and what can be done to remedy the situation.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

What to Expect When Your Septic Tank is Installed

When you are having a new septic tank installed, you need to be prepared for the process. It is not as simple as digging a whole and dropping in the tank. There is planning and permits that are needed, whether it is a new or replacement tank for your septic system. Most homeowners will only have one tank installed in their septic system over a few decades, so knowing what to expect can help the process go smoother.

Planning and Permits

Before the installation can be scheduled, you need to complete the planning process. First, you need to decide the size of tank needed. If you are replacing an existing tank, this is an opportunity to upgrade to a larger tank. Talk to your septic tank professionals to determine the best type and size of tank for your home.

Placement of your tank will also need to be planned. If it is a replacement, it will most likely be placed in the same location. However, for new tank installations, your installer can help choose a location that will meet the local regulations.

Once you decide on the tank, you can make sure you apply for your permits. Often your septic installer can help with getting the right permits from the city or county office in your region.

Day of Installation

When you have the permits and planning completed, your contractor will schedule the day of your installation. Expect a significant amount of soil removal for new installations, including trenches for pipes and a deep hole for the tank. Replacement should not need as much digging, but the old tank will need to be disconnected and removed before the new tank can be lowered and buried.

When the correct planning and preparation is completed, your septic tank installation can be done expediently when you hire experienced installers. Make sure to plan your tank installation carefully with your contractor to ensure it is done right and legally from beginning to end.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221