Sometimes, a septic tank is the best way to go if you need to install sewage infrastructure on a new lot. The costs of septic system installation are significantly lower than hooking up your site to a sewage line if the property is more remote. Here are some things you'll need to know before going into a septic system project.

Deciding on the Location of the Tank

Your lot will need to be big enough to house both the septic tank system and the drain field; properties of ¾ acre or larger are best for septic tank installation. For the drain field, you need a space that you can dedicate completely to your septic tank. No heavy items can be placed on this area because that could damage the drain field. It's best to just have a clear surface on top of your drain field so that you don't risk clogging. The location of the tank might also be influenced by the terrain. If it will be hard to dig a space for the tank and piping because there are rock layers or other difficult terrain features, that will be a good thing to know upfront so that you can rethink your location.

Designing the Tank and Septic System Installation

Speak with a septic tank contractor to determine how you want the tank to be installed, There are a few key options. For example, do you want the tank to sit above ground or be buried? Installing the tank above ground makes for much easier maintenance, but it is also an eyesore. If you do install the tank underground, be sure to consider adding a septic tank riser that allows a technician to perform certain maintenance tasks from ground level.

Consider What Other Equipment Should Be Added

Additional equipment can be useful for checking on the tank. For example, you could install a probe that lets you check sludge levels at any time. Video inspection is another option so that you can see the sludge levels and also check on what's obstructing a septic tank at any time. Video inspection services simply require that the septic tank have a septic tank riser or be above ground with an easy access portal so that the camera can be attached to a probe and inserted into the tank.

Get a Permit

And finally, before you can start building your septic tank, you will need to get a permit from your municipality. Have your septic tank service draw up the plans for your tank, and bring along paperwork that describes your property. Your local government will need to make sure that the plan is sound so that you don't risk contaminating the local environment. Certain protected or polluted areas may be especially sensitive to having a potential waste hazard in the area. But hopefully, your septic tank team has done a great job of designing a foolproof system for you.