Septic systems

Your looking to have a new septic system installed, What you need to know.

Septic systems come in many different configurations. Sand mounds, leach fields, injection, chlorine discharge, algae tank, and many other types. All these systems greatly very in cost from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. This process can be confusing and seem complicated to a newcomer to the process, but it’s pretty simple. Let us layout step by step what you need to know.

Key terms: 

Perc test- the testing of the soil quality for water percolation rate

Soil test- the visual inspection of soil layers by a competent inspector

SEO- sewer or septic enforcement officer employee of the state or county

Septic design engineer- agency that is certified by the state to design septic systems

Permits- required documents to do work required, provided by authorities

( This information is for Pennsylvania) 

Step 1. Does your property perc?

As the property owner you need to contact your local SEO to set up a perc test. The best way is to contact your local township or municipal authority to receive the contact information. After you set up a contact with the SEO you will need an excavator contractor or knowledge on how to operate a mini excavator. 

Step 2. The perc

The test cost for the SEO averages $600 for 6 test holes and the soil exploration. The day of the test you will need to find a undisturbed location for the system. “Do not” have any equipment or vehicle traffic in this area! I would also suggest not to cut any tress either. This ground needs to be as virgin as possible. If you don’t want to add the expense of having a pump system, choose a location downhill of the structure location. Although a pump maybe unavoidable. Next the excavator will dig a small hole under the direction of the SEO to determine the soil quality. Once a satisfactory location is found, perc test holes will be dug. These holes a dug by hand with a post hole shovel, to a depth and width determined by the SEO. Average size 6” wide x 24” deep. Now a 5 gallon bucket of water will be need be available for each hole. The SEO will use the water to test the perc rate.

Step 3. Pass / fail what’s next 

A site failure will require a different location to be tested. A pass will result in the information going to the septic engineer agent. The engineer will design the system required for the site. You do not have a choice in the system. At this point the plans will need to be provided to the excavation contractor to price and construct the system.

Step 4. The build

The build will consist of at least a tank, pipe, sand, stone and cover soil. As the system is built multiple inspections by the SEO will be required to move to the next step of the build. Do not have any vehicle or equipment traffic on the system site or downhill of the site location. This will cause a permit failure of the system by the state. Water supply will be needed for the testing and to fill the tanks after they are set. Electric will be needed if you have a pump for testing. 

Step 5. Completion

Once the system is installed and final permits are issued your system will be complete and ready for use.

Excising systems:

Excising systems can be used if the specs of the new structure are the same as the original structure and the original system was in use within the designated time frame determined by the SEO.

Repairs:

Some repairs can be made without permits.

Major repairs may need permits depending on local authorities.

Key take aways:

· Don’t disturb the ground in the septic site

· Contact local SEO first, then excavation contractor

· Once the system is in use set up a 3-5 year tank pumping schedule, this alone will prevent expensive repairs in the future.