Septic Installation

How to Choose a New Septic Tank or Septic System

Whether you’re replacing an old tank or getting a brand new septic system installed, choosing the right equipment is the first step. Although septic systems are all designed to do pretty much the same thing, they accomplish it in different ways. Here are some of the options you’ll want to know about when shopping for a new septic tank:

• The Volume of the Tank: these range from 50 to 3,000 gallons, and the right size mainly depends on how many people are in your household. Oregon has minimum size specifications depending on the number of bedrooms in a home.
• The Shape and Configuration of the Tank: Tanks can be narrow or wide, tall or short, or have one or two compartments. No matter what size or shape your property is, there’s a suitable septic tank for it. 
• The Material of the Tank: Concrete, steel, fiberglass, high-density plastic, and low-density plastic are common materials for tanks to be made out of. 

What Type of Septic System Do I Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all septic system. The right septic system for you depends first on your household needs and secondly on the needs of your property. For example, if your property has a high groundwater table, it may be necessary to invest in a sand filter septic tank to avoid contamination. Or if your property is on a slope, you may need a pump system to discharge effluent into the drain field.

Here are a few important considerations about your property when deciding which septic system you need:

• Soil Type and Conditions: The soil on your property can do everything from react with the material your tank is made of to make installation more challenging.
• Local Regulations: Some municipalities have regulations about the types of septic systems you can use; some don’t. Make sure to check before you get too far into the process.
• Groundwater Levels: If the groundwater table on your property is higher than normal, that becomes a contamination risk and special considerations need to be taken. Your septic contractor can help answer any questions you have.
• Cost: A septic system is a large investment, but you don’t want to break the bank. Finding everything you need at the right price can be tricky, but an experienced septic contractor should be able to help you find the best value.

At Speedy Septic, we understand the regulations Oregon and Washington have in place for septic system installs and we’ll help you find the best system to fit all your needs, your property configuration, and your budget. We take out all of the guesswork with the septic installation so you don’t have to worry. We’ll help you through the entire process!

For more information, check out our article on different types of septic systems.

How Long Does a Septic Install Take?

The average septic tank installation takes about three to five business days. But it’s important to keep in mind that every project is different and a few different factors that can affect this:

• Your Location: If your location is difficult to access or the terrain is difficult, installation will naturally take longer.
• Weather: Cold weather makes the ground hard and digging much more challenging. Heavy rain can also delay excavation. The best time for septic tank installation is the springtime.
• Local Regulations: We follow local regulations to the letter to ensure you pass inspection and to give you the highest quality installation possible.

After your septic system has been installed, the county will inspect it and perform a series of tests to make sure it’s watertight and installed correctly. Once the county has approved your septic system, you can begin using it.

How to Prepare for a New Septic System

If you’re getting ready for a new septic tank installation, there are a few things you should do first that will help make the whole process go more smoothly.

• Notify Neighbors: Your neighbors will notice the heavy equipment that comes with a septic tank installation. It’s good courtesy to give them a heads up beforehand.
• Make Sure a Soil Test is Performed: It may surprise you, but the type of soil your property has can have a big impact on which septic tank material is the best choice. For example, if your soil is highly acidic, steel might not be the best choice due to the possibility of rust and corrosion. Do this ASAP so you know if there are any special considerations you need to make.
• Plan for a Water Shut-Off: This can be a challenge for many people. Let friends or relatives in the area know your water will be shut off and see if you can use theirs.
• Decommission the Old System (if necessary): If you have an old septic system on your property, it needs to be fully decommissioned following local regulations.
• Clear the Area of Debris and/or Lawn Furniture: This will help the technicians get started quickly, so we can get you back up and running as soon as possible.

Expert Septic Installation Services

Septic technology is always improving and we have the knowledge to install your new system accordingly.

If you’re considering a new septic system for your home or business, Speedy Septic is here for you. Our certified technicians will help you select the right septic system for your property then properly install it. Contact us with questions, or to get started today!

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