How to Install A Septic System

Installing a septic system requires planning, preparation and permits.

Installing a septic system is not as simple as digging a hole and placing a tank. You must follow specific guidelines as set forth by your local building and zoning agency. The process requires special testing and you must obtain the necessary permits. The entire process will take several days to as long as several weeks, depending on how fast your local agency performs the necessary inspections. Once the inspections are complete, you can move forward and finish the installation.

Things You'll Need

• Septic permit
• Septic plans
• Marking flags
• Orange spray paint
• Backhoe
• Septic tank
• Septic drainpipe
• Septic medium

Instructions

1. Mark the ground according to the septic plan using marking flags and spray paint. Keep in mind that you must follow approved plans from the zoning department for your locality. There can be no deviation from these plans since the installation of a septic system follows strict guidelines for health reasons.

2. Excavate the hole for the septic tank using the backhoe. The depth of the hole depends upon the size of the septic tank and local building codes. The tank must be able to sit on a flat, level surface that is firm to prevent settling. If your jurisdiction is one that requires a separate overflow tank, excavate for that one as well.

3. Lower the bottom half of the septic tank into the hole using the bucket arm on the backhoe and a strong chain or cable. You must exercise care when handling the halves of the septic tank. These tanks are extremely heavy and they will break if you place it into the hole improperly, or if you drop it. Lower the top half of the tank into the hole on top of the lower half. Check that it lines up properly.

4. Excavate the trenches for the septic drain field using the backhoe. You must follow the plans when excavating the hole. Connect the overflow pipe to the septic tank. Install the overflow pipe throughout the drain field according to the septic plans. Distribute the septic medium throughout the drain field over the drainpipe.

5. Connect the sewage pipe from the house to the septic system according to the type of pipe you are using. Start backfilling the excavated area around the septic tank using the backhoe. Fill in around the sides of the tank first, and then over the top of it taking care not to rupture the tank or to disconnect the overflow pipe.

6. Start backfilling the trenches of the drain field using the backhoe. Completely cover the septic medium with dirt, taking care not to rupture the pipes. Continue backfilling to the depth in the septic plans.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to schedule inspection for each milestone in the septic installation or it will delay the completion of your system. You cannot use the septic system until the installation goes through its final inspection and the building department issues the operation permit.

References

• The Natural Home Building Source: Installing a Septic System
• HandyMan Tips; Installing a Septic Tank and Drain Field; NMED Surface Water Bureau; May 2003
• Eco-Nomic.com: How to Build Septic Tank Systems