Septic Tank Condition - How to Inspect Concrete Septic Tanks InspectAPedia® -
Characteristics of concrete septic tanks
Types of Septic Tanks: steel septic tanks, concrete septic tanks, fiberglass septic tanks, home made septic tanks - definitions and characteristics of various types of septic tanks
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This document describes how to inspect the condition of a septic tank, providing special
considerations for inspecting concrete septic tanks. Inspecting concrete septic tanks is a key component in
onsite wastewater disposal systems.
This is a chapter of Septic Systems Inspection, Testing our online book about septic system inspection procedures,
defects in onsite waste disposal systems, septic tank problems, septic
drainfield problems, checklists of system components and things to ask.
Also see The Septic Information Website our main page of articles and information
about septic systems and onsite wastewater disposal systems inspection, testing, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair.
The photo shows a round concrete septic tank cover being removed to prepare for pumping a concrete septic tank. This is a safe cover and is rated thick enough to be driven-over by a car - but we do not recommend that practice.
Of course the area is quite unsafe while the septic tank cover is off - we would not leave the tank cover off and the area unattended.
Concrete septic tanks at an existing septic installation are usually viable, but might have damaged baffles or cracks that permit seepage of groundwater in or septic effluent out around the tank.
Occasionally we've seen tanks made of poor-quality concrete (insufficient portland cement) which eroded badly. If the tank outlet or absorption system have been blocked, examination of the tank interior may show that effluent is or has been above the top of the baffles (see "baffles" below) thus indicating a system failure discussed next.
Concrete tanks can crack or sections may separate causing leaks with the result of not only improper disposal of effluent (wrong location) but also subverting an attempt at a septic loading and dye test since when the system is un-used the tank liquid levels drop abnormally.
The inspector may detect this condition only if there is a tank inspection port which is readily and safely accessible for before, during, and after inspection when running a loading and dye test.
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The Septic System Information Website - Extensive, Detailed Consumer and Industry Information on Septic System Inspection, Testing, Maintenance, Alternatives for on-site waste disposal
Alternative & Advanced Designs for Septic Systems
for discussion and links to (on-site waste disposal) System Designs for Problem Sites & Soils. Books, Consultants, Engineers, Designers. Alternative septic system designs can substantially
reduce the normal required distances between septic system components and wells, lakes, streams, and property boundaries.
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