How to find a septic tank and drain field?

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How to find a septic tank and drain field?

This article will focus on detailed instructions on locating a drain field and the septic tank that feeds it. This article will also advise the homeowner on the danger and precautionary measures that should be strictly followed when probing for a septic system and drain field. Locating your septic tank can be more complicated and dangerous than you would think. There are a few safety warnings that we should go over before continuing on.

• Old septic systems can be dangerous. Some systems were made of wood and steel. Over the years, decayed or rusted eaten away, presenting a hazard to any unsuspecting home owner walking over the system. Falling through a decayed septic tank can not only be hazardous but fatal.

• Electrical power lines buried in the yard can also create a dangerous hazard.

• There may be more than one tank. Some systems are designed with two or multiple tanks. So, beware of the possibility of additional tanks.

• Cesspits and cesspools are large open pits that serve as a drain field. These systems become old, brittle and may fall through, trapping a person.

• Old water wells that were left open or the wood that covered them had long ago rotted away. Open wells can be very dangerous for children and adults. Persons can fall into these traps and may be fatal.

Visual signs of a septic tank and drain field can be found everywhere. Look for obvious signs of markings indicating the presents of a septic tank lid and the drain field.

• Large flag stone and rocks may have been left by previous owners identifying the septic tank lid and or drain field.

• Blue prints or drawings may be obtainable from your local sewer authority.

• Look for the sewage pipe exiting the house. Then go outside and locate the area with the same pipe exiting the house. This is a good place to start.

Before you go looking for a septic tank and drain field be sure to carry a heavy stick for probing the locations before walking over them. Remember to always go with a friend, someone that can call for help in the event there is a cave in or an injury.

By: Bradley Skierkowski