Understanding Septic Systems

A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment structure, commonly used in areas without centralized sewer systems. It consists of a septic tank and a drain field. The system’s primary function is to treat household wastewater by separating solids and liquids, allowing the latter to percolate into the soil.

Basic Components of a Septic System

1. Septic Tank: A watertight container made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. It holds wastewater long enough to allow solids to settle and form sludge, while oil and grease float to the surface as scum.
2. Drain Field: Also known as a leach field, it’s a shallow, covered excavation made in unsaturated soil. The pre-treated wastewater is discharged through piping onto porous surfaces that allow the liquid to filter through the soil.
3. Soil: The soil plays a vital role in removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients from the wastewater.

Our Septic Tank Installation Steps

1. Soil Evaluation and Site Visits

Before we start digging, a soil evaluation and site evaluation must be completed. The soil evaluation completed by a licensed soil scientist involves assessing the soil type, topography, and proximity to water sources. We will work with a soil scientist during this phase of the project. Once the soil report is available, the next step is to have a site evaluation and system design. The soil and site evaluation is very hands-on; we will work with you every step of the way to ensure the process is seamless.

2. System Design and Permitting

With a copy of the soil evaluation report, your new septic system can be designed within the parameters established by the Ohio Department of Health which are outlined in Ohio’s Administrative Code Chapter 3701-29. The type and components of the septic system will be sized according to Ohio’s rules relative to the soil’s evaluation; generally, this is based on the number of bedrooms in the home and the soil conditions and topography of the site.

3. Excavation

Once permits are obtained and design is in place, excavation begins. We ensure precision and avoid damaging underground utilities with careful planning before the work begins.

4. Installing the Septic Tank

With the excavation complete, the septic tank is carefully placed into the prepared hole. It is essential to ensure the tank is level and positioned correctly. Backfilling the area around the tank should be done carefully to prevent shifting. Check-Mate’s professional team will handle this for you.

5. Installing the Distribution System

The septic tank is then connected to the distribution system which moves pre-treated wastewater to the soil for final treatment. While distribution systems vary from site to site, strict adherence to the approved system design is critical for proper functionality. Some common distribution systems in our area are ground absorption trenches, sand mounds, and spray irrigation systems.

6. Connecting the System

Once the septic tank and distribution system are installed, we then connect the septic tank to the sewer line coming from your home. The process requires careful planning to ensure proper fall in the line traveling from the home to the tank.

7. Final Inspection and Testing

Before covering the system, a final inspection by the local health district is necessary. The environmental health inspector will ensure the system has been installed per the design and confirm the installation meets ODH and local district rules. Once approved, we move to system start-up, which will vary by design; this may be as simple as flushing the toilet to meeting a manufacturer on-site to ensure an aeration system is functioning as intended. The local health department usually conducts a follow-up inspection 12 months after installation prior to issuing the operating permit.

Septic System Maintenance