Alexei Volkov
Installing a plastic septic tank is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. Before beginning the installation, it is important to gather the necessary equipment and parts, including a backhoe, shovel, laser transit, grade pole, PVC pipes, perforated pipe, vent caps, hydraulic cement, tape measures, septic fabric, plastic septic tank and risers, a septic filter, and a plastic distribution box. One must also ensure that plastic septic tanks are permitted by local regulations. The first step is to conduct a percolation test to determine the suitability of the soil and identify any necessary structural precautions. Following this, designs and applications must be submitted to the local government for permits and approvals, ensuring compliance with plumbing and building codes. The next step involves excavating the site, selecting a location with good sub-soil drainage and providing adequate clearance around the tank. The bedding for the tank should be well-compacted and composed of a sand/gravel mixture or clean, granular soil. Before placing the tank, it is crucial to check the serial number, orientation of inlet and outlet, and shipping damage. Additionally, piping should be protected or drained during freezing weather to prevent splitting.
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What You'll Learn
- Prepare the site: Select a site with good sub-soil drainage and clear the area around the tank
- Gather equipment: Backhoe, shovel, laser transit, grade pole, PVC pipe, etc
- Test the soil: Perform a percolation test to determine ground suitability and structural requirements
- Install piping: Ensure pipes are level and oriented correctly, hand-tighten threads, and check for leaks
- Insulation: Consider insulating the tank or installing it underground to protect against freezing
Prepare the site: Select a site with good sub-soil drainage and clear the area around the tank
Preparing the site for a septic tank installation is a crucial step to ensure the system functions effectively and complies with local regulations. Here are some detailed instructions for preparing the site:
When selecting a site for your plastic septic tank, it is important to consider the sub-soil drainage. Good sub-soil drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation and potential flooding. Look for an area with well-drained soil that is not prone to standing water or waterlogging. Avoid low-lying areas or regions with a high water table. Ensure you consult with a professional who is familiar with local conditions and regulations to help you choose the most suitable location.
Clear a designated area around the tank to provide adequate space for installation and future maintenance. Remove any obstacles, debris, or vegetation that could hinder the installation process and compact the surrounding soil if necessary. Ensure there is enough clearance to properly place and compact the backfill around the lower half of the tank. This will provide stability and ensure the tank is securely embedded.
It is also important to consider the bedding material underneath the tank. Provide a well-compacted or undisturbed layer of sand, gravel, or clean granular soil. The minimum recommended depth of this bedding material is 6 inches, especially in rocky terrain. Shape the bedding to suit the underside of the tank, ensuring a snug and level fit.
Before placing the tank, perform a thorough inspection. Check the serial number for warranty purposes, and verify the orientation of the inlet and outlet to ensure proper installation. Utilize a pipe level across the access cover to ensure the inlet and outlet are level. By taking these careful measures, you will help ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your septic tank system.
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Gather equipment: Backhoe, shovel, laser transit, grade pole, PVC pipe, etc
To install a plastic septic tank, you will need to gather the necessary equipment. This includes heavy machinery and tools for digging and measuring, as well as pipes and fittings. Here is a detailed list:
- Backhoe: This piece of equipment is essential for efficiently digging the holes required for your septic system. It will help you excavate the site and create space for your plastic septic tank.
- Shovel: A shovel will be useful for more precise digging and for making adjustments to the holes created by the backhoe.
- Laser transit: This surveying tool will ensure you take precise measurements during the digging process. It will help you accurately determine the dimensions of the holes and the placement of the tank.
- Grade pole: Another surveying tool, the grade pole will assist in measuring the accurate depth of the holes. It is important to ensure the holes are deep enough to accommodate the septic tank and pipes securely.
- PVC pipe: You will need various types of PVC pipes and fittings for your plastic septic tank installation. This includes input and output pipes, such as the 4" Sch. 40 PVC pipe for the input and the 4" ASTM D2729 perforated pipe for the output. Don't forget to also get vent caps for gas dispersal.
- Hammer drill with bits: If you need to drill through walls to install the septic system, a hammer drill is necessary.
- Hydraulic cement: This type of cement is used to create a seal between the PVC pipe and your house wall if you drill through it.
- Washed stone: A layer of 1 ½ inch washed stone or gravel is placed below the septic system to ensure proper drainage. The size of the gravel and the depth of this layer may be specified by local health requirements.
- Tape measures: Make sure you have at least 100 feet of tape measure to work with, as you will need to take measurements for the placement of the tank and pipes.
- Septic fabric: You will need a roll of septic fabric that is approximately 3 feet long. This fabric is used in the drainage area to act as a filter.
- Plastic septic tank and risers: Check your local regulations to ensure plastic septic tanks are permitted. You will also need to consider the size and capacity of the tank to suit your needs.
Remember, it is important to have all the necessary equipment and parts ready before beginning the installation process. This will ensure a smooth and efficient installation of your plastic septic tank.
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Test the soil: Perform a percolation test to determine ground suitability and structural requirements
Installing a plastic septic tank requires careful planning and consideration of the surrounding soil conditions. Testing the soil through a percolation test is a crucial step to determine ground suitability and structural requirements. Here are the key steps and guidelines for performing a percolation test:
Firstly, understand the purpose of the test: A percolation test, commonly known as a perc test, assesses the water absorption rate of the soil where the septic tank will be installed. This test is essential for designing an effective septic system. The absorption rate, or percolation rate, is typically measured in MPI (minutes per inch of water drop).
Next, select the test location: Choose the site where you plan to install the septic tank. Dig one or more holes in this area, with a diameter of about 1 foot and a depth of 3 to 6 feet below the surface. For more conclusive results, consider drilling five holes: one at each corner of the proposed septic tank area and one in the center.
Now, you can begin the testing process: Start by filling the holes with water to fully saturate them. Then, fill the holes completely with water again and record the exact time. Use a measuring tape to determine the number of inches of water in the hole. After 30 minutes, come back and measure the water level again, noting the new level.
Calculate the percolation rate: To find the percolation rate, subtract the starting water level from the water level after 30 minutes. Ensure both measurements are in inches. Then, divide 30 (representing the 30 minutes) by the difference between the two water levels. The result will give you the MPI rate.
Interpret the results: Generally, a percolation rate between 5 MPI and 60 MPI indicates good percolation for most septic systems. However, local building regulations may vary, so check the maximum MPI allowed in your area. If the percolation rate is too high or too low, alternative wastewater treatment systems may be required.
Finally, consider the timing of the test: It is recommended to conduct the perc test during dry conditions, typically from late summer to early winter. This ensures the soil's water table is at its minimum, providing more accurate results as drier soil absorbs water better.
While you can perform a DIY perc test, keep in mind that professional companies or land surveyors can provide more reliable results and ensure compliance with legal requirements for septic tank installation.
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Install piping: Ensure pipes are level and oriented correctly, hand-tighten threads, and check for leaks
Installing a plastic septic tank requires careful planning and execution to ensure a proper waste management system. Here is a detailed guide on installing the piping for your plastic septic tank:
Ensure Pipes are Level and Oriented Correctly:
Use a pipe level to ensure the inlet and outlet pipes are level and oriented correctly. The inlet and outlet pipes should be at least 4 inches in diameter and made of Schedule 40 PVC, cast iron, or other approved materials. The outlet pipe must be below the level of the inlet to ensure proper flow.
Hand-Tighten Threads:
To prevent the risk of stripping, hand-tighten the threads several turns to ensure they are lined up properly. Do not overtighten, as this may strip the pipe threads or crack the bulkhead fittings, which will require replacement.
Check for Leaks:
Fill the tank with water and check for any leaks. Tighten the connections just enough to stop any leaks. Ensure the bulkhead drain/outlet fittings are tight onto the tank. The lock nut on the fittings has a reverse thread to prevent loosening when tightening external connections.
Additional Considerations:
- Protect the piping from freezing weather by insulating the tank or installing it in an insulated shed.
- Plan the slope of the piping to ensure a minimum drop towards the field to prevent clogging.
- Seal around any holes in walls with hydraulic cement for a watertight seal.
- Ensure proper clearance and backfill around the tank for support.
- Use a distribution box ("D-box") to ensure equal flow distribution to the absorption field.
By carefully following these steps, you can ensure the piping for your plastic septic tank is installed correctly and avoid potential leaks or damage.
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Insulation: Consider insulating the tank or installing it underground to protect against freezing
If you live in a region with harsh winters or occasional cold snaps, insulating your plastic septic tank can help prevent freezing and the costly repairs and disruptions that come with it. A frozen septic tank can block wastewater flow, slow bacteria activity, and cause backups inside your home.
To insulate your plastic septic tank, you can use natural or man-made materials. Natural insulation uses materials that are already available in your environment, such as snow cover, long grass, mulch, or leaves. For example, spreading a thick layer (8-12 inches) of mulch, leaves, or straw over the septic tank and pipes can create a layer of protection by trapping warmth and minimising exposure to cold air. However, these options may not provide sufficient protection in extreme climates.
In such cases, man-made insulation offers superior thermal protection. Foam boards are lightweight, waterproof, and easy to install. Simply place them directly above the septic tank and connecting pipes to trap heat. Insulated blankets are another option; they are reusable, durable, and quick to install. Spray foam provides seamless coverage for pipes and tank surfaces, but it requires professional installation for the best results.
If you are installing a new plastic septic tank, consider burying the tank and pipes deep enough to prevent freezing. Additionally, ensure that the soil covering the septic line is not compacted, as this can push frost deeper into the ground and increase the risk of freezing.
By combining natural and man-made insulation methods, you can effectively protect your plastic septic tank from freezing and maintain its functionality year-round.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a backhoe, a shovel, a laser transit, a grade pole, various pipes and pipe fittings, vent caps, tape measures, septic fabric, a hammer drill with bits, hydraulic cement, washed stone, a plastic septic tank and risers, a septic filter, and a plastic distribution box.
You should perform a percolation test on the soils in the area to determine whether the ground is suitable for a plastic tank and what type of structural precautions you will need to make. You will also need to submit your designs and applications for permits and approvals from your local government, complying with all laws related to plumbing and building codes.
You will need to dig out your draining field according to the specifications of your survey results and local regulations, ensuring enough slope to maintain an outward flow from the tank to the draining field. Most places will require a 1 1/2-inch layer of washed drain rock around the pipe to keep it steady. When installing the perforated pipe in a gravity septic system drain field, remember that it should have no slope on either end and be capped on its ends.
Piping should be protected or drained during freezing weather as the smaller volume of water in the pipes may freeze and cause them to split. An underground tank offers better protection from freezing. Over time, exposure to sunlight will cause the plastic to harden, making it more prone to cracking if the tank receives a heavy blow. Darker colour or black tanks will generally last longer.
