Where Is Your Septic Tank?

You might have a septic tank, but where is it located? Companied that do septic tank pumping in Vallejo, CA often get calls from customers asking where their septic tanks are located and how they can find them. Sometimes, it’s simple because there’s a raised lid above the ground that you can visibly see. Other times, it’s not that easy. But there are a few things you can do to find your septic system on your own without having professionals come out to locate it for you. Knowing where the tank is located is important to maintenance. You will more easily be able to figure out if something is wrong if you know where to look.

One thing you can do is contact the health department in your local area and get into public records. Builders and owners have to have permits to install septic systems and the permit comes with a diagram as to where the tank will be buried. If that doesn’t work, you can make a public records request to help you get the information you need.

Another avenue you could take, if your house is relatively new, is to contact the contractor who build the home and see if they have a diagram of where the septic tank was placed. They should still have blueprints and plans if the home is on the new side.

If you fail to find what you need in those ways, you can look for the tank yourself around your properly. Locate the main sewer line, which starts in your basement or crawl space and leave the side of the home. Measure the location of where that line leaves the house and find that location outside. Then, you can carefully probe the yard with a thin metal stick (don’t push too hard, however,) and follow the line out into the yard. The last thing you want to do is puncture the line so you will want to probe with gentleness and great care. Most septic tanks are three or so feet underground and 10 or 20 feet from the house.

If you are unable to find the septic tank, you can call professionals, who can use special equipment to locate the tank. It’s good to know where the tank is for future reference. And, that way, you can keep an eye on the drain field for any changes that might occur, which could mean you need maintenance.

Over the course of your ownership, you will need septic tank pumping in Vallejo, CA, just as any owner of a septic tank will. When that time arises, you can use your knowledge to direct professionals to the exact location of your system. The experts at American Sanitation Inc are here to help with your septic system needs. Whether you want to location your tank, get tips on how to maintain and treat the system, or you need pumping, we’re here to help. Give us a call with your questions and we’ll make our recommendations to you.