How to Connect a Trailer to a Residential Septic System

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Things You'll Need

  • Shovel

  • 4-inch PVC pipe

  • PVC pipe cement

  • PVC pipe cleaner

  • Hack saw

  • Tape measure

  • 4-inch PVC tee fitting

If you're moving a trailer near a residence, it may be cost-effective to tie the trailer into the residential septic system. If the system has the capacity to handle the additional load, this can save the cost of a new tank and the major expense of digging and preparing additional field lines. There may also not be available space for additional field lines, making a connection to the residential septic system the only real alternative.

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Step 1

Determine the best point at which to intersect the existing septic line. This must be done between the current residence and the septic tank. Evaluate the terrain and select a location that will allow the new line to travel downhill until it intersects with the existing line. A gravity feed system is much easier and cheaper to install than a unit requiring a pump. Mark out this path and take careful measurements to determine the amount of pipe required to complete the task.

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Step 2

Dig the ditch from beneath the trailer to the intersect point at the existing septic line. This ditch should be 6 inches wide and approximately 12 to 18 inches deep. The depth of this ditch will depend in great part on the depth of the existing drain line. The new line needs to intersect the old line at the same depth to prevent any low spots, which can cause clogs. Be certain to remove all large rocks or other debris from the ditch before laying your pipe.

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Step 3

Make your connections to the main drain line coming out of the trailer. Route the new pipe to the start point of the ditch. Your drain line should be 4-inch PVC and should be a Schedule 40 pipe. This will provide you with a very sturdy drain line. Use pipe cleaner on all pipes and fittings before applying the pipe cement. Lay the pipe to within 10 feet of the existing drain line, making certain all connections are secure.

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Step 4

Dig away more dirt from the existing drain line until you have revealed approximately 3 to 5 feet of pipe. Use the hack saw to cut through the drain pipe. Move approximately 6 inches up the pipe and make a second cut. Remove the piece of pipe and clean both ends of the opening. Insert the tee fitting into the opening in the existing drain line. Be certain to apply ample cement to both ends before inserting the fitting. Turn the opening on the fitting so it aligns with the new drain pipe coming from the trailer. Insert a piece of pipe between the tee fitting and the new drain line. Back-fill the ditches.

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