If you recently moved to a home that needs septic tank repairs or you’re building on land that doesn’t have municipal sewer access, a septic tank installation is a sensible solution. If you’ve never had to deal with septic tank installation before, you might not know what’s involved. Here’s what to expect from the process.

What Steps Are Involved In Septic Installation?

1. Get the Necessary Permits

To maintain soil and groundwater quality, most areas will have regulations on who can install a septic tank and how it must be installed. In Oregon, homeowners are required to obtain permits for new septic builds. While a DIY job is legal, the rigorous standards for equipment and materials make an experienced contractor better able to handle the project. A professional can help you obtain the other permits needed by completing a site evaluation and filling out the necessary forms.

2. Determine Design

With the legal go-ahead, you can start figuring out what size tank will meet your family’s needs. Your contractor can provide a recommendation based on family size and usage metrics. If your tank’s too small, it may overflow or need frequent pumping. You’ll also have to decide on the size of the drain field, which depends on the flow rate. It’s vital that your home’s flow rate doesn’t exceed the drain field capacity, or you may experience backups.

3. Excavate & Install

Once you’ve settled on a design that will meet your needs, your septic tank installation contractor will excavate the ground for the tank and drain field. Then, they will install the necessary equipment and contact the health department for one final inspection before backfilling. Once’s the installation is complete, you can replant grass and begin using your septic tank.

Get high-quality septic tank installation and service from the team at American On Site in Willamette Valley, OR. For the past 15 years, they’ve pumped septic tanks, repaired septic equipment, and inspected septic systems throughout the area. To schedule pumping or discuss an installation, call them at (503) 829-7600 or learn more about their services online.