How to Replace a Septic Tank

Your house septic system is a vital part of waste management for your household. Regular maintenance is less expensive than replacing the system. Septic tanks usually last for 20 to 30 years but often have to be replaced before reaching that life expectancy.

Instructions

1. Check your tank to identify problems early.

2. Call your local health department before doing anything else. They can tell you what you need to do if there is tank leakage.

3. Pump your septic tank to alleviate any problems temporarily. This is really important when you can't get someone out to replace the tank for a few days.

4. Use less water in your house. Water is part of what goes into your septic tank. The less going into it means less mess in the tank.

5. Fence off the area around your septic tank, especially if it is leaking. You don't want children or pets to ingest anything that could make them sick or kill them.

6. Call a professional contractor to install your replacement tank. Local permits are required to install a septic tank. A contractor will have an easier time getting these permits than an individual trying to do it themselves.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, you may replace your existing septic tank with a larger one. This decreases how often you need to have it pumped out.

• Pipes can become clogged by plant roots, causing your septic tank to fail, even with normal emptying.

• The cost of replacing your septic tank varies depending on where you live. It can be anywhere from three to five thousand dollars. Pumping out of a septic tank can cost from seventy five to one hundred and fifty dollars.