Homeowners must know where their septic system is located, so they can direct septic inspection teams to the outdoor tank caps for easy access. However, if you recently purchased a home, you may not know where to find this entry. Here’s some information to help you pinpoint the septic tank and know how to care for it.

How to Find It

Many septic systems feature two to three lids that look like street sewer covers. These metal toppers are typically circular and 3 feet wide. The tank is normally 10 to 25 feet away from the house. When you look in the yard, keep an eye out for extra-healthy grass. Most septic tanks feature green grass on top because of the influx of nutrients from the waste leaching process.

Since a permit is needed to install a new septic system, go through county records to find whether there’s a copy of your property's past permits or septic inspections. This document should indicate the location and configuration of the septic system, making it easy for you to find the setup.

How to Care for It

Set up annual septic inspections with waste professionals to ensure the system is working efficiently and doesn’t need repairs. These experts will pump the tank every three to five years and clean the effluent screen to keep the leach field free of solids to prevent overflow.

Never place heavy objects, like pavement, a building, or rocks over this location, as it can collapse. Assess the area for soggy soil odors that may mean the system is overflowing or leaking. Additionally, you should only flush organic matter down the toilets and drains in the home. Never use drain-cleaning chemicals, as they’ll disrupt the tank’s delicate bacteria balance.

If you need help locating your system, contact the team at ABC Cesspool and Septic Pumping in Kamuela, HI. These professionals will quickly locate your system, then provide any necessary septic inspections, pumping, and repairs. To get more information about their services, visit the website or call (808) 887-0766.