Get matched with top septic tank pros in Sidell, IL

While abandoning a tank without treating it and following strict rules is illegal, there are several other ways to dispose of an old septic tank. One standard method is to pump out and crush the tank where it rests and bury it in the soil. Another is to remove it and transport it to a landfill. Finally, if abandonment is the best option, your contractor must pump out the tank and fill it with inert material, such as sand or concrete, depending on local regulations.

While you can drain water softener backwash into a septic tank, doing so may cause several problems. One problem is that increased sodium chloride levels from water softener backwash can kill septic tank bacteria, decreasing the effectiveness of this wastewater treatment system. Another issue is that large calcium deposits can eventually stop up the drain field and lead to poor drainage. 

A mound septic system, when properly maintained, can last between 20 and 25 years on average—though some last longer or malfunction sooner than that. The most important part of maintenance is getting an annual inspection of the vital parts of the system to ensure they’re in proper working order and not too backed up with sewage.

A septic tank lid is often 1 foot underground, but it could be just 4 inches from the surface or 4 feet deep. For septic tank lids that are closer to the surface, you’ll have an easier time locating them just by looking for signs in the yard or using a metal probe. But for septic tanks that are buried deeper underground, you’ll need to hire a pro with specialized equipment to track down the lid without risk of damaging utility lines.