Septic systems are the most popular waste disposal option for homeowners not connected to city sewer systems. According to Circle of Blue, an award-winning water-centered publication, over 21 million households nationwide use septic systems instead of public sewers for toilet waste. Septic tanks require septic tank cleaning services, even when tanks are buried and out of sight. Professionals use several methods to find these tanks. Let's learn more!

Public Records

In certain areas, septic systems were once in the public records log. Depending on how old the system is, a professional can make a public records request. The request will instantly tell them where the tank is, allowing them to perform septic tank cleaning, pumping, or repair services. This is one of the easiest ways to find a buried tank, but it depends on the system's area and age.

Fresh Dirt

Finding recently buried tanks is more accessible than most people realize. You can simply look for a large, buried object in the yard. Freshly buried septic tanks will be covered in fresh dirt because they haven't had a chance to grow grass on them yet. Some homeowners intentionally leave them further above ground to create a small hill, making it easier to find them.

Visual Clues

Inspectors and other professionals will often walk around the property to find clues that a septic tank is buried nearby. If the tank hasn't been cleaned, it may leak into the soil. This will create a small area of lush, green grass that looks amazing compared to the rest of the yard. Depressions or hills in specific areas can also be critical indicators of a buried septic tank.

Long Probes

Once a professional has found an area where the septic tank is most likely located, they may use a long metal rod to find the tank. According to Bob Vila, a popular home improvement blog, a septic tank can be buried anywhere from four inches to four feet underground, so digging isn't feasible since a professional would dig up most of the yard to find it. Instead, long metal rods are stuck into the ground to find the tank based on where there is resistance.

Septic tank cleaning, pumping, and repair are all necessary to ensure a healthy septic system. This can be challenging for homeowners who don't know where their tank is buried. However, professionals can use various methods to help you locate the tank. Contact Absolute Septic today to learn more about our services.