Get matched with top septic tank pros in Strong, AR

A septic tank always has some amount of liquid in it—which should usually be 8 to 12 inches from the top of the tank. If the liquid level is higher than that or is overflowing the drainage pipe that leads out to the leach field, the tank may be too full and in need of pumping.

Ensuring you have adequate space for your engineered septic system is crucial. You’ll need to reserve approximately 900 square feet for a three-bedroom home’s system. However, the type of soil you have, soil absorption rate, the size of your home, climate, and local zoning code will impact the actual amount of space you need.

The average cost to replace a septic tank or install a new system is typically around $7,350, with a broader average range of $5,000 to $12,000. However, total project costs can vary widely, from $5,000 to as much as $22,500. Key factors influencing the price include the size and type of the septic system, the tank material, and the size of your house.

It's important to distinguish between the cost of the tank itself and the cost of the entire system installation, which is significantly more. For the tank alone, costs vary by size:

• A tank for a one-bedroom house typically costs $500 to $900.

• A 1,000-gallon tank, suitable for most one- to three-bedroom homes, costs between $900 and $1,500.

• A tank for a five- or six-bedroom home generally costs $1,200 to $1,600.

Both materials are suitable for septic tanks, but concrete usually lasts longer than plastic. If you’re buying a new tank, the prices are similar for plastic ($500 to $2,500) and concrete ($700 to $2,000). However, there’s a notable difference in repair prices, with plastic tank repair costs ranging from $150 to $2,000, while concrete repairs are between $700 and $5,000.