A septic tank is an effective way of taking care of the wastewater that leaves your home, but it isn't right for every situation. Before putting in a septic tank, there are several issues you should consider first. Take these ideas into consideration.
1. Cost of Connecting to the Local Sewer System
In some cases, your property may be so remote that you don't have the option to connect to a municipal sewer system. In these cases, a septic tank is the only option.
In other cases, however, you may have a choice. Check into the price of connecting to the local sewer system, and compare that to the cost of installing a septic tank and paying for pumping and repairs throughout its lifetime.
2. Check the Distance to Natural Water Sources
Septic tanks clean waste water to a certain point, and then, they release it, allowing the earth to continue the rest of the cleaning process. Primarily, this process involves filtering by rocks and disinfecting by the sun.
To ensure the water is completely clean before it reaches natural waterways, septic tanks have to be a certain distance from rivers, lakes, oceans and other natural sources. Find out how far your home is from the nearest water source, and make sure that complements the guidelines set out by the tank's manufacturer.
3. Investigate the Distance to the Water Table
Finally, you also need to consider the distance to the water table. This is a bit harder to measure, but you can often get that information from the Department of Water in your state. Also, check with the manufacturer or installer to ensure the tank you select works with this distance.
4. Think About Threats to the Pipework
Septic tanks have to be connected to your home with sewer pipes, and in most cases, there are also outlet pies that lead to the drainfield. Roots from trees or bushes can damage those pipes if they grow into them.
Modify changes to your landscaping as needed to accommodate your septic tank, or plan the position of your tank based on the plants that are already growing on your property.
5. Consider Long Term Maintenance
Finally, make sure that your lifestyle works with your septic tank and decide if you need to make changes. For instance, tanks don't work well with garbage disposals, so you may want to get rid of yours if you have one. Similarly, you may want to switch to natural cleaners that are less likely to disrupt the balance of your system.
