"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."
A cistern works by collecting rainwater from your gutters and downspouts and storing it in a holding tank. The holding tank can be installed above or below ground, and the size will depend on your household needs. The stored water can then be used for household tasks, watering your garden, and even for drinking water.
Talking with a septic pro before planting trees near your tank is best to ensure the roots won’t interfere with your septic system. However, there is an easy way to figure out where to plant a tree—but you’ll need to know how tall it can get when it’s fully grown. For instance, if the tree can reach 50 feet, plant it at least 50 feet from your septic system.
The ideal depth of a septic drain field is 18 to 36 inches below the surface. The trenches must be deep enough to allow proper wastewater distribution and filtration while remaining shallow enough for oxygen to reach the soil, promoting bacterial activity that helps break down contaminants. In areas with high groundwater or poor drainage, shallower systems like mound drain fields may be required.
Although air in your water lines won’t affect the overall quality of your water, it will lead to problems with your well water system if not addressed. Over time, too much air in your water lines can create blockages in your pipes, cause insufficient water flow to your taps and appliances, loosen pipes, and potentially damage important components of your well including your well pump and pressure tank.
Many contractors offer warranties for parts and labor. Confirm terms before hiring.
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.
A damaged septic system can leak odors and sewage, so repairs are urgent. Find out how much septic tank repair costs based on repair type, tank size, and more.
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.
