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 > Best time to replace septic tank

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canadian eh?

Winnipeg, Manitoba

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Posted: 10/13/08 02:48pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

We just discovered that we have to replace our septic tank because the divider is going and we were having a little problem determining when would be the best time to replace it in respect to disturbing the grass as little as possible. We have Kentucky Bluegrass sod and we love our lawn so we want as little damage as possible afterwards. Do you think replacing the tank now or in the spring would do less damage? Also with that being said it isn't so urgent that it has to be done right now but it should be done within the year.


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hershey

Albuquerque,(fulltime) NM, USA

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Posted: 10/13/08 02:54pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

You know what they say....."the grass is always greener on top of the septic tank". Probably doesn't make much difference.


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coolbreeze01

Redding, Ca

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Posted: 10/13/08 02:57pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I don't do septic tanks, but I've run a lot of equipment year round. Dry ground is way easier and cleaner. You can always wet it a little to kill dust if needed.


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tvman44

Southwest Louisiana

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Posted: 10/13/08 03:09pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I would think the grass is finished growing for this year, If concerned about the grass wait till spring.


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Kajtek1

CA

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Posted: 10/13/08 03:22pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

The grass replacement is going to be just few hundred dollars in worse case scenario.
The seasonal discount the digger might give you quite easily can be big thousands.
No brainier to me.
What kind od dirt is there in Redding area?
The clay we have needs a dynamite when dry.


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dchuntnevada

Nevada

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Posted: 10/13/08 03:34pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Things to consider

A lot of people looking for work, it might be a good time to do it now

Something unforeseen could delay the project… if you wait until spring and have a 2 week delay you have less time for your yard to recover.

When it comes to something like a septic tank with a problem sooner is always better than later… what if it backs up or breaks… during the holidays, winter… and you can’t get anyone to help.

Just the piece of mind not worrying about the tank makes it worth it to do now

RV-1/2n-FUN

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Posted: 10/13/08 03:46pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Can't help with the grass, but my concern would be focused on not having sewage in the shower rather than having dead grass.

PY

S.West Louisiana

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Posted: 10/13/08 03:46pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

My question is who told you that you should replace your septic tank? Depending on when it was manufactured there were no dividers in them. Do you have a newer mechanical system? One that has a small air pump on it? Or do you have the old fashioned septic tank that the waste water just flows out of it and you have no air pump? Cement tanks just dont go bad they last for years. Metal ones will rust and fall apart the lids are the worse. I use to be involved in the plumbing trade so this has peaked my interest.
Good luck...send a pm if I can help you in any way.
Pete


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dalenoel

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Posted: 10/13/08 03:54pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

My thought would be allowing the ground to resettle prior to the grass going back in. The winter would help that.


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donsm60

Florida

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Posted: 10/13/08 04:08pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I agree dealing with it before it does become a potential problem is a good idea. We waited till our drain field was on its last leg before having our system replaced and regretted it because it became a real hassle. If solids start leaching past the divider your drain field will plug-up in no time and that really ‘stinks’

Not saying it would happen, but if it does it won’t be fun. Grass aside, if it were me I’d just get it done and over with so I didn’t have to worry about it.

Good luck!

On edit.

Hi Pete, just read your reply. By air pump are you referring to a pumped lift system? I also like to learn how things differ around the country or in this case Canada.

Another edit. Pete, just googled the air pump and understand the basics so please don't take the time to explain. It’s not used here, or at least that I’ve ever seen but it looks interesting. You learn something new everyday!

* This post was edited 10/13/08 04:45pm by donsm60 *

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