If you live in a rural area, building a septic tank is essential for proper sewage disposal. Without this vital system in place, you could threaten the health of yourself, your family, and the environment. In this article, we will guide you through the process of building a septic tank, step-by-step.
Step 1: Preliminary Work
Before you start building your septic tank, you need to check with your local government to ensure that you comply with all relevant regulations relating to the construction of a septic tank. You will need permits to dig and to install the tank. You will also need measurements of your property lines, a soil evaluation to determine soil permeability and the appropriate tank size.
Step 2: Excavation
Once you have obtained all necessary permits and approvals, you can begin to excavate the site for the septic tank. You should ensure that the site is level and free of any potential obstacles, such as rocks or large roots that could interfere with the installation process.
Key Considerations:
- The size of the septic tank should be appropriate to your needs and comply with local regulations. A small tank for a large household could fill up quickly, while a large tank for a small household could be unnecessarily expensive to install.
- The depth of the excavation should be sufficient to provide a stable foundation for the tank and drainage field. It should be deep enough to allow adequate separation between the bottom of the tank and the groundwater level.
Step 3: Tank Installation
Once the excavation is complete and the site is ready, it's time to install the septic tank. You can buy a ready-made septic tank at a home improvement store, or you can custom-build your own based on your specific needs.
Key Considerations:
- The tank should be installed with a slight slope towards the drainage field to allow for proper drainage.
- You should ensure that the inlet and outlet pipes are properly connected, and all joints are sealed to prevent leaks.
- The manhole cover should be easily accessible for regular maintenance, cleanout, and inspection.
Step 4: Drainage Field Installation
Once the septic tank is installed, it's time to lay the drainage field. Drainage fields work by allowing waste to filter out of the septic tank and into the soil. The soil purifies the waste before it eventually returns to the groundwater system.
Key Considerations:
- The drainage field must be installed at a lower elevation than the inlet pipe of the septic tank.
- The size of the drainage field is typically determined by the size of the septic tank, the soil type and permeability, and the daily wastewater volume generated by the household.
- The drainage field should be located away from water sources such as wells, rivers, and lakes, that could become polluted if the system fails.
Building a septic tank may seem daunting, but it’s an essential step towards protecting your and your family’s health, while also being environmentally responsible. With proper planning, the right materials, and a willingness to get your hands dirty, you can install a septic tank that will serve you for many years to come.
