If you are planning to add an extension to your home, it is important to understand your septic system and know when it could need to be replaced. Here are some tips on when it is necessary to install a new septic system/tank in your home.
Home Additions
If you are planning on adding space to your current home - more bedrooms or a larger living space in general, keep in mind how that will affect the septic system. If you think this addition will welcome more guests or residents in your home then that will affect the usage rate of your system.
Also, when remodeling, you need to ensure that the septic tank is located a code-approved distance away from your house and that it is not damaged during the remodel.
To keep a safe distance away from your septic tank during remodel, it is imperative to know where the tank is located. In each state, septic tanks need to be at least 5 feet of distance from your home.
The rule-of-thumb is that if you are adding bedrooms to your home you will need to expand your septic installation to respect the added usage and size of your home and how it will affect the tank.
Contact Professionals
The best way to maintain health and safety regulations for your home when remodeling is to get a professional involved. Ask a lot of questions and carry around something you can take notes with.
Whether you have just bought this home or you have been living there for years, it is still beneficial to have your septic system inspected. During this process, the inspector will check and update you on the septic system’s age, signs of leakage, backup, the overall integrity of the structure, signs of system failure, and more.
This will also be a great opportunity to ask the professional their opinion on whether you need a new system entirely, or any expansions to your tank. Also be sure to contact your local Department of Health to confirm that you meet the requirements for your septic system with your new remodel.
Proper Care
Once you do have the correctly-sized and sound septic system for your home, it is extremely important that you take care of it. This includes not sending clogging items down your drains or pipes, as well as anything that could destroy the microbes that protect the wastewater.
Things like wipes, diapers, cat litter, sand, and feminine hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet, as they can all create dangerous clogging with your septic system.
Also avoid dumping any gasoline, chemicals, or paint down your pipes as these will definitely harm your wastewater.
Signs to Watch for
If you notice any of these occurrences with your septic system, call a professional right away, as issues underground could be lurking.
Signs include strong odor near the drainfield or septic tank, the drainfield having spongy grass growing on it, and the gurgling or backup of wastewater in your home’s sink drains.