How to Check a Septic Tank
While septic tanks are generally out of sight and out of mind, they do require some periodic attention. One such piece of attention is to check the tank to see if it needs to be emptied, check the baffles and make certain the tank itself is in good overall condition. Fortunately, these can all be done at the same time and you should be able to accomplish the task in a day's time or less. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- Broom
- Pry bar
- Flashlight
- Long wooden pole (8 foot minimum)
- Hand-held mirror
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Instructions
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Locate the septic tank. Some tanks will have access hatches and inspection hatches visible above ground; most do not. Locate the main drain line where it exits the house, then continue along that line for approximately 12 to 15 feet. Since septic tanks must be set a minimum of 10 feet from the house, and are normally placed as close to the house as possible, you should be directly over the tank.
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Dig a test hole to find the tank. Septic tanks will generally be buried a maximum of 24 inches below the surface. In many cases they are far more shallow and easier to find. Once the tank is located, clear away as much of the lid as possible. This will allow you to inspect a large section of the tank for any signs of excessive wear or deterioration. Use the broom to sweep the top of the tank as clean as possible.
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In the center of the tank top there should be a square hatch set into the concrete. This is your access point. Use the pry-bar to slightly raise one side of the hatch. The hatch will be made of concrete and will be quite heavy. It may require two people to lift the lid off the tank and out of the hole. The tank will be full of water. This is normal and not an indication the tank needs to be emptied.
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Lower the stick into the open septic tank and take a measurement of the tank's overall height. Lower the stick into the tank again, this time attempting to feel when the stick makes contact with the semi-solid sludge on the bottom of the tank. Take a second measurement at the top of this sludge and divide the two numbers. If the sludge is taking up 35 percent or more of the tank's total volume, it is time for it to be pumped out. This should be done by a certified contractor with the proper equipment.
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After the tank is pumped out, use a flashlight and mirror to inspect the baffles at each end of the tank. These baffles deflect the waste product toward the bottom of the tank and keep any floating waste or debris away from the inlet and outlet openings. If these baffles are damaged or deteriorated it raises the risk of a clog and the baffles should be replaced or repaired.
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Tips & Warnings
Never enter an empty septic tank. The fumes are toxic and the severe lack of oxygen can cause rapid suffocation and death.
