Bynum Septic Solids Separation

Septic Tank Buyer’s Guide

If you recently purchased an older home or want to explore options for a new septic tank installation for your property, then our septic tank buyer’s guide is here to help. We’ll give you all the information you need to know before investing in a septic tank and tips for getting the best lifespan out of your new septic system. 

What Does a Septic Tank Do?

A septic tank is an underground, water-tight container used to hold your home’s wastewater. As wastewater sits in the tank, solids (sludge) settle to the bottom while fats, oil, and grease (scum) rise to the top. The liquid wastewater then exits the tank and spreads evenly through the drain field. Once in the drain field, the wastewater percolates in the soil, reentering the environment and allowing nature to remove bacteria and viruses. This clever system contains and eliminates dangerous sewage – keeping you and your family safe – while recycling wastewater back into the environment. 

Diagram of a septic tank

Questions to Ask Before Investing in a Septic Tank

How big of a septic tank do I need?

The size of your septic tank will depend on the number of people who live in your home. For example, a 3-4 bedroom home should have a least a 1,000-gallon septic tank. Then, for every additional bedroom, you can add another 250 gallons. You need to invest in a large enough septic tank to prevent overflow and backup in your septic system. 

What is the best material for my septic tank?

There are four main materials used for septic tanks: concrete, steel, plastic, and fiberglass. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s best to talk to a professional when choosing the right septic tank material for your home. 

Do I need a permit for septic tank installation?

Before septic tank installation on your property, you must have a permit from your local government office. This is important because poor installation or waste treatment will reduce underground water quality and potentially harm you and the homes around you. Contact a professional to help guide you through the permitting process. 

Septic Services Near Me

Signs You Need a New Septic Tank

Septic systems are an important part of keeping your home sanitary and safe. When you’re having an issue or need to invest in a new septic tank, you need to know the signs. After all, septic tanks are only built to last about 20-30 years on average. At the end of this time, you’ll need to work with an expert to determine your best next steps. 

Look out for these signs you need a new septic tank.

  • Your drains are slow.
  • You notice greener grass in the drain field above your septic tank.
  • There is a foul odor coming from your drains.
  • You have discolored or contaminated water.
  • There is standing water in your drain field. 

Tips for Maintaining Your Septic Tank

The average lifespan of a septic tank can range from 15-40 years. How long your system lasts will depend on how well you maintain and take care of your septic system. Here are some tips on dos and don’ts for getting the best lifespan out of your septic tank. 

  • Be careful what you flush and put down the drain – No wipes, cat litter, cigarettes, coffee grounds, grease, or feminine hygiene products. 
  • Don’t overuse water – Spread out laundry days, and try not to run the washing machine, dishwasher, and shower at the same time. 
  • Protect your drain field – Don’t plant trees too close to your drain field. Keep cars and heavy equipment off your drain field.
  • Schedule septic tank pumping – We recommend scheduling an inspection and septic tank pumping every 3-5 years. 

Need Help with Your Septic Tank?

With many size and material options available – not to mention the hassle of zoning and permitting – you’ll need help from some local experts for your septic tank installation near Lawrenceville and Lilburn, GA. At Bynum Septic, we have decades of experience installing, repairing, and inspecting septic systems. We can recommend the best solutions to you, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable septic tank. Give us a call today to learn more!

Leave a Comment

Local Septic Company Near Me

Free Estimates on Complete System Replacement

Call Now: 470-365-2095

  • Just had septic pumped and couldn't be more pleased with the service. Techs were easy and fun to work with. Very knowledgeable in what they do. Would recommend to all.... read more

    Richard Teply Avatar Richard Teply
    December 6, 2023

    Called them for a commercial lift station job and they arrived in a flash. Diagnosed and repaired the problem fast at a reasonable price. Call them!

    Lisa Little Avatar Lisa Little
    November 28, 2023

    The guys they sent out were on time, very helpful and answered all my questions. They showed and told me what they were going to do before doing it... read more

    Angela Fracker Avatar Angela Fracker
    October 12, 2023
  • Mr. Moyer was nice and knowledgeable. He was very patient with understanding my English. Gracias por su ayuda señor Moyer

    Stephanie Perez Avatar Stephanie Perez
    September 12, 2023

    Ellijah is very knowledgeable and helpful. Understands our septic system as well as made good recommendations for maintaining the system that we inherited.

    Cheryl Davis Avatar Cheryl Davis
    September 12, 2023

    Bynum Septic did an excellent job in a timely manner. They were knowledgeable, professional, and very informative as to the cause and solution to the problem. I would... read more

    Dr Percy Mulbah Avatar Dr Percy Mulbah
    August 12, 2023
  • Installed cut-off valve for replacement dishwasher.

    Snow Angel Avatar Snow Angel
    July 12, 2023

    The workers were very nice, knowledgeable, friendly and professional!

    Angelynn Kennedy Avatar Angelynn Kennedy
    July 12, 2023

    Great customer service and friendly crew. Work done on time and area serviced back to pre-installation. Would definitely recommend Luis for future plumbing needs.

    C Jenkins Avatar C Jenkins
    July 12, 2023

Scroll to Top