Learn How to Search for Your Septic Tank at Home

Your home wastewater system has a septic tank. As a homeowner with a septic, knowing where the septic tank is would save you money and time. If ever you wanted to pump it, clean it, or repair it, the first thing you would do is to know where your how do i find my septic tank. This would lead you on how to locate where your septic tank is by simple and tested steps.

Why You Should Locate Your Septic Tank

We’ll discuss why you should locate your septic tank before discussing the search process:

Maintenance – Regular pumping and maintenance will keep your septic system functioning properly.

Repairs – If an issue arises, having a clue where your tank is will enable you or a professional to repair it promptly.

Home Improvement – Do not build driveways, patios, or gardens on top of your septic tank.

Health and Safety – Leaking septic tanks are dangerous and should be fixed straight away.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Septic Tank

Check Your Property Records

Most homes with a septic system will also have a note of where the tank is. You can search for:

• The property survey or blue print of your home.
• Septic system permits from the local health department.
• Old inspection reports.

These usually have a map that indicates where the septic tank is buried.

Locate the Sewer Line

At home, find the main sewer line. This is a large pipe that carries water from your toilets and sinks. It will probably be in the basement or crawl space. Trace this pipe outside your house to where it leads. Your septic tank will probably be in a straight line from there, 10 to 25 feet from the house.

Prowl Around Your Yard

Subterranean but provide you with some hints on where they are:

Green grass – Most homeowners notice that one area of their lawn appears greener or develops a tad bit faster. That is most probably the area where your septic tank is.
Patches of naked spots or depressions – Depending on the length grass will grow, there may be spots of naked spots or depressions where grass may not be growing atop the septic tank.
Manhole lids or covers – There are tanks with manhole covers which you can easily identify just a little above ground level.

Metal Probe Usage

A metal probe is a long rod which you can push into the ground to locate solid objects. Push the probe into the ground every several feet in where you believe the how do i find my septic tank is. If the probe strikes a solid object, you’ve likely located the septic tank. Don’t damage pipes or the tank.

Search for Vent Pipes or Inspection Pipes

There are also other septic systems that have small pipes sticking out of the ground. The pipes allow air into the system and can also be used to locate the tank. If you see a small white or black pipe in your yard, your septic tank could be somewhere close.

Use a Septic Tank Locator Tool

If the above measures fail to serve you in the location of the septic tank, you may purchase or rent a septic tank locator machine. These devices emit signals underground to identify hidden tanks. They also have cameras that are passed through the pipes to find the tank.

Hire an Expert

If you cannot find the septic tank, then it is time to call a septic service professional. They know what equipment and techniques to employ so they will be able to find it in no time. This will save your effort and time, especially if your septic tank is buried deep or in a not-so-easy-to-find location.

What to Do After You Have Found Your Septic Tank

Once you have located your septic tank, then follow these steps:

Mark the Spot – Mark the area of your septic tank with a flag, stake, or garden marker.

Keep it Clear – Never park, construct, or plant deeply rooted plants over your septic tank.

Maintain Regularly – Check and pump your septic system every 3 to 5 years to avoid issues.

Write It Down – Take note of your septic tank for later use.

Steer Clear of These Common Pitfalls

Random Digging – Random excavation is dangerous and damages your septic system.

Problem Signs Ignored – Slow draining, smells, or puddles of water in your yard show your septic tank should be checked as soon as possible.

Building Over the Tank – Constructing heavy items on top of your septic tank will destroy it and be hard to fix.

Conclusion

Finding your septic tank does not need to be hard. By merely following these simple steps, you will be able to locate your septic tank and maintain it accordingly. Septic maintenance will keep your septic system in the best condition and save you the trouble of paying enormous repair costs. If you are unable to locate your septic tank, never be afraid to obtain the professional services of experts. Knowing where your septic tank is will give you the confidence that you need and keep the plumbing system in your home in perfect condition.