Q: How deep should the drain field be under the ground?

• <div><p>Your drain field or leach field should be <b>1 to 3 feet</b> under the ground. It will be a little shallower than the septic tank, although it can be the same depth or slightly deeper. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-deep-is-septic-tank.htm">proper depth of the septic tank</a> is up to <b>4 feet</b>. It&rsquo;s possible that your local regulatory agency requires a certain depth for your drain field.</p></div>

Question 1

Why do I need to drill a deeper well?

Accepted Answer

•

There are many reasons you may want to extend the depth of an existing well or drill a new, deeper well on your property. A deeper well can tap cleaner water sources—shallow water may contain more contaminants. With a deeper well, you’ll also have an easier time reaching the water table depth (the level at which underground water is found) and can get past tricky soil conditions.

Plus, if your local building code requires a minimum well depth for safety and environmental standards, you’ll meet the code by digging a deeper well in the first place.

Question 2

What is the best time of year to pump or empty a septic tank?

Accepted Answer

•

The best times of year to empty or pump a septic tank are spring and fall. Many professionals recommend spring because the ground has thawed, making the tank easier to access and the waste less likely to be frozen. Pumping before summer also helps avoid conflicts with vacations or outdoor gatherings. Fall is another great option, as contractors may be less busy, and servicing the tank can reduce the risk of overflow from winter and spring precipitation. While summer is also a suitable time, winter is generally not recommended due to frozen ground.

Question 3

How long will a mound septic system last?

Accepted Answer

•

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.

Question 4

How deep should the drain field be under the ground?

Accepted Answer

•

Your drain field or leach field should be 1 to 3 feet under the ground. It will be a little shallower than the septic tank, although it can be the same depth or slightly deeper. The proper depth of the septic tank is up to 4 feet. It’s possible that your local regulatory agency requires a certain depth for your drain field.

Question 5

How do I dispose of a septic tank?

Accepted Answer

•

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.