"The technician emptied the freezer, which was in the basement, to work on the part that needed repair. Then he neglected to put anything back into the freezer, including a turkey I had bought for Christmas and a rack of ribs. Two days after he left, I went out of town for two weeks. The turkey actually exploded and spewed its liquid all over everything, which had to be discarded. I let AHS know and they couldn't even bother to call me or follow up on this. I'm considering not renewing my contract with them because of the quality (or lack thereof) of many of the providers they send."
Adding a thin layer of dirt over a septic drain field is fine, especially if soil erosion has occurred. However, adding too much dirt can compact the soil, reducing the drain field’s ability to absorb and filter wastewater properly. Avoid using heavy clay soil, as it can prevent proper drainage. Instead, use a light layer of topsoil and plant grass to help with soil stability.
How deep your septic system needs to be into the ground depends on several factors. In extremely cold environments, the tank needs to rest below the maximum frost line, which can be up to six or eight feet deep. The standard burying depth for most systems is between a few inches and four feet below ground level. Depth can also depend on the slope of the landscaping and other property variables.
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.
The lifespan of your well casing depends mainly on the material it’s made from. Stainless steel and galvanized steel casings are designed to withstand the pressures and environment of deep-water wells but are susceptible to corrosion. Most steel casings last from 20 to 35 years, on average. PVC casing is highly durable and, if used correctly, can last up to 50 years.
Yes, it is possible to drill a well by hand, but it calls for a good deal of physical labor. Drilling a well by hand is best suited for softer soil, and it may not be possible through rockier terrain. For wider and deeper holes, companies with professional equipment make the job much easier.
The Stephen, MN homeowners’ guide to septic tank services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
It’s crucial to install a septic tank with the right volume to avoid wastewater backups. This guide will help you calculate the right septic tank volume.
Septic tank sizes vary depending on the size of your home, how many people live there, how much water you use, and more. Read on to learn how to determine the right size for you.
