Once your septic tank outgrows its use, you will need to
carefully follow septic tank disposal guidelines to ensure the safety and
integrity of the property.
Valid reasons for abandoning your septic tank may include:
- A
major home renovation or re-construction
- The
need to re-channel your wastewater disposal and treatment system for
health reasons
- When
you install a second septic tank to replace the old one
- When
you establish a connection to your municipal sewer system due to personal
preference
In either case, you'd need to decommission your septic
system safely to avoid future hazards. You could either choose to remove the
tank entirely or fill it up with rubble.
The Dangers of Poor Septic Abandonment
If you don't use the right approach when abandoning your
septic tank, the tank may fill up with runoff water over time. Kids might
unknowingly open up the lid when playing and accidentally fall into the tank.
Old abandoned tanks may gradually grow weaker in structure.
The risk of collapse can prevent you from adding any structures around the
unused space left in the yard. There may not be firm ground on which to lay
your new foundation.
Also, pets could be harmed if the tank collapses in your
yard. Additionally, the abandoned tank may fail to support your car's weight if
you decide to park over the area.
If you sell your house, the new owner may not be fully aware
of the danger that lurks in their yard. The tank becomes a constant hazard for
their safety for as long as they live there.
The Key Steps for a Safe Septic Abandonment
With the above risks in mind, you'll want to ensure a safe
environment for your household by following the safety guidelines. Learn about
the key steps to follow when you decide to do away with your tank.
1. Re-channel the
Wastewater Path
If you bring in a new septic tank, you first need to divert
the wastewater coming from your house to flow into the new tank. You could
still do the same if you switch from a septic tank system to a municipal sewer
line. The aim here is to prevent new wastewater from accumulating in the old
septic system.
A licensed septic contractor can re-channel the drain pipes
for wastewater to flow into the replacement system. They could assess the state
of the old drain pipes to make sure if they can still be re-used in your new
system.
But if you want to connect to your local sewer line, your
septic system expert may disconnect the old sewer line and seal off the
ends.
2. Pump the Septic
Tank
If your septic tank still contains waste, you might want to
pump out the tank before doing away with it permanently. Your pumping
contractor may need to remove any sludge settled at the bottom of the tank to prevent
deterioration or a possible collapse.
3. Remove or Bury the
Old Unit
To safely abandon your septic tank, you should ensure that
it doesn't hold water in the future to prevent potential hazards. Concrete
tanks may only need to be broken up on
the sides or bottom. This strategy helps prevent the tank from holding
any water. After tearing down the tank, your contractor might then fill it up
with rubble, sand, or gravel.
They will then bury the tank, ensuring that the soil remains
compact to protect against shifting whenever you drive your car over the site.
You're likely to encounter fewer challenges if you decide to use that part of
your yard for something else.
If you need reliable, all-around septic services,
contact Pete's Outflow Technicians today.
