Septic Tank Drain Field Installation

Start the location process by finding your septic tank lid. Your septic tank should be located approximately 3-6 metres (10-20 feet) away from your house. The drain line will extend from the far side of the septic tank and lead into the leach field. A septic tank probe may be helpful for this project; when in doubt, call your local plumber for assistance.

Running hot water, adding chemicals, or lighting fires over the drain field will NOT thaw a frozen drain field. In fact, all of these tactics can cause more problems. Call your local plumber to employ drain cameras to inspect the frozen drains and determine whether drain-jetting equipment will resolve the issue.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing does not recommend putting an above-ground pool (or any other heavy objects) over a drain field. This can restrict your access to the system for maintenance or pumping. The weight of the pool can also crack pipes and cause sewage backups in the home.

Perforated drain field pipes are buried at least six inches below the soil surface and are usually 2.5-3 metres (8-10 feet) apart. Each home’s drain field is unique, and each homeowner should have a diagram of theirs. This allows for safe and effective alterations and landscaping projects.

Drain tiles don’t have to be sloped, but they can prevent dirt from accumulating inside the pipes.

Many municipalities prohibit DIY septic installations because it’s a process that requires expertise and precision. Your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing will dig a system of trenches for the drain field pipes. We then line those trenches with gravel before laying and connecting a system of perforated pipes. Last, we cover the pipes with another layer of gravel, which we then cover with special fabric to prevent dirt from infiltrating the system. At this point, at least 15 cm (six inches) of soil should be placed over the entire pipe array. Planting grass seed or sod on top will reduce the amount of rainwater that seeps into the drain field.

If it’s time to get your home’s systems in order, Neighbourly® will connect you with the most reliable service providers in your neighbourhood:

• Your local Mr. Electric® provides complete residential electrical services, including electrical panel installations and upgrades.
• Aire Serv® will perform all your HVAC maintenance services, including furnace replacement and installation.
• The Grounds Guys offers advice and expert landscape installation services for the landscaping over and around your septic system.