While most houses are connected to mains sewers, if you live in a rural area it’s likely that your house will need a septic tank. Septic tanks can service either a single household, or a number of houses that are located in close proximity, and are usually installed when there is no access to the mains drainage system.

If you’ve been told that you need a septic tank installed at your property, you may be tempted to think that it’s something you can do yourself. However, this may not be the best option, so read on to find out why you should get your septic tank installed by a professional.

First off, what is a septic tank?

A septic tank is a septic system which is known as either an ‘off-mains wastewater treatment system’, an individual sewage disposal system or a private sewage treatment system. Designed to ensure the safe disposal of sewage, they usually use anaerobic bacteria to decompose the sewage waste, rather than sending the waste material to a wastewater treatment plant. The vast majority of septic tanks use a continuous flow method, and are built using a two-part structure. The sewage is settled in the upper compartment, while the lower compartment is the place where the anaerobic bacteria do their job.

Can anyone install a septic tank?

If your property cannot be connected to the mains drainage network, you’ll need to install a septic tank. While it can be tempting to try to do this by yourself in the hope of saving some money, there are many reasons why it’s best to leave the job to somebody who has got both the experience and the necessary qualifications.

Septic systems are extremely complex

First of all, septic systems are comprised of many parts, each of which requires a degree of familiarity in order to install each component correctly. If you’re not familiar with the different components, it could result in faulty installation, with disastrous results.

Furthermore, you will need to satisfy the regulations laid down by the Environment Agency who regulate the installation and operation of septic tanks to ensure that groundwater tables will not be threatened, and protect public health. Professional septic system installers have the knowledge, the experience and the skills necessary to ensure that the job is done properly and to the required standard.

To ensure the optimum functionality and efficiency of the septic system

Getting the installation process right is vital to ensure that your septic system runs well, functions efficiently, and that it lasts. If a single component is installed incorrectly, it could have a detrimental effect on the system as a whole. Furthermore, your system will not be running at its optimum level and it could require repairs to reinstall the component.

It’s the most cost-effective way to install your system

While you may think that DIY septic tank installation will save your money, the truth is that it’s likely to cost you more over time, especially if repairs or re-installation of specific parts are needed. Engaging professional septic tank installers to fit your system will prove more cost effective in the long-run, especially as they can help to maintain the system and keep it running well with regular pumping out of the tank.