If your home runs on a septic system, you should know what size your septic tank is. Whether you’re thinking about replacing it or are installing a new system, selecting the right size is key to a smoothly functioning system and easy future maintenance. Use the guide below to find the right size for your home.  

Understanding the Importance of Septic Tank Sizes

Why the Right Size is Important

The system works by sending all waste—both solid and liquid—out to your tank. The solid sinks to the bottom, where it’s broken down by the tank’s helpful bacteria into sludge. The liquid, or effluent, rises to the top and is funneled out to the drain field, where it percolates through the soil for safe disposal. The tank will need to be routinely pumped to remove that sludge. If it isn’t pumped on time, you’ll experience problems such as flooding in your drain field or sewage backups through the drains in the home. You’ll target having septic pumping done once every three to five years.

How to Find Your Size

There are many factors that impact what size you need, but the major ones are the home’s square footage, number of bedrooms, and the number of people in your household. If your space is less than 1,500 square feet, such as a one- or two-bedroom house, then a 750-gallon tank is ideal. Homes that are less than 2,500 square feet with three bedrooms should have a 1,000-gallon tank. Larger four-bedroom homes under 3,500 square feet should have a 1,250-gallon tank. Adjust your sizing based on your usage, as well. For example, if you have a lot of water waste from laundry or run a daycare out of your home, you’ll want to increase your size.

A septic service contractor will help you choose a septic tank size that suits your needs. The certified technicians at P & H Septic Service have over 35 years of experience serving the property owners across New London County, CT. They provide a complete range of services, from installing your new tank to maintaining it. Learn more about their offerings online and call (860) 848-8507 to request an estimate.