The prospect of having a new septic tank installed at your Pleasantville, NY, home may seem daunting. But as with any new challenge, a bit of preparation can help make the process less intimidating. Working with experienced professionals and preparing your property for the change can help make your new septic tank installation go as smoothly as possible. Here’s what you need to know to get your property ready for a septic system update.
Contact a Professional to Determine the Extent of the Problem
Since your septic system is mostly underground, it can be difficult to determine exactly what the problem is when something goes wrong. The first step to take when you notice septic issues is to call a licensed septic professional. They can assess the problem to accurately determine the cause and best repair options. Once they have determined the extent of the problem, a repair plan can be put into place.
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If the solution is to replace the septic tank, there are a few things that should happen right away. Having the septic tank pumped can be helpful to temporarily alleviate some of the problems. Conserving water will help reduce strain on the septic system while you wait for the new septic tank installation. To be safe, you should also cordon off the area around the septic bed to prevent people or animals from coming in contact with toxic waste.
Prepare the New Septic Tank Site
Before installing the new septic tank, it can be helpful to have a site survey and soil test done. This will help establish if there is enough space for the new tank, if there are any obstructions, and how well the soil absorbs moisture. This information will help determine the right size and type of tank for your property.
Installing a new septic tank requires large equipment, so the site will also have to be assessed for accessibility. Potential obstacles such as fences, branches, and overhead wires may need to be removed to allow access to the site. This type of work often requires permits, and the utility companies will need to be contacted.
Have the Old Septic Tank Removed
Once the site is ready, excavation can begin. Removing the old septic tank requires large tractors and equipment, which can be disruptive. You may want to talk to any nearby neighbors to let them know that heavy machinery will be on your property.
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The new septic tank will require a hole large enough to accommodate the tank with room to work around it. This often results in a large volume of dirt and rocks that need to be taken away. Talk to your contractor to find out if they remove the excess materials or if you should hire someone for the job.
Installing the New Septic Tank
After excavation is complete, the new septic tank is lowered into the hole and carefully inspected for any cracks or damages. If your existing pipes fit and are in good condition, they can be re-connected. In some cases, you may need to have new pipes run from the septic tank to the house and drainfield.
The tank will then be sealed and tested for a 24-hour period to ensure no water loss occurs. The last step before backfilling around the tank is to insulate it to prevent freezing.
