Septic tank installation is a significant project for homeowners. A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system, and it requires the proper installation to function correctly. If installed incorrectly, a septic tank can cause significant health hazards and environmental damage.
Nonetheless, the question that sometimes arises for homeowners is whether to undertake the septic tank installation as a Do It Yourself project or whether it is better to hire a septic professional.
DIY Septic Tank Installation
The idea of saving money by installing a septic tank yourself is tempting, but it is not a good idea for most homeowners. Septic tank installation requires significant excavation work, heavy machinery, and a fair amount of technical knowledge that the average homeowner does not possess.
A DIY septic tank installation may save you money initially, but it can cost you in the long run. Here are the pros and cons of a DIY septic tank installation.
Pros
- Cost Savings – The most significant advantage of a DIY septic installation is cost savings. Hiring a professional can be expensive, and if you have the technical knowledge and tools required, you can save money by doing the job yourself.
- Control Over the Project – Undertaking the septic tank installation yourself gives you complete control over the project. You can decide when to start and finish the project, and you can make changes to the design as required.
Cons
- Lack of Technical Knowledge – Septic tank installation requires technical knowledge and expertise. Without this knowledge, you may install the septic tank incorrectly, leading to significant problems down the line. A septic system that is not installed correctly can cause environmental damage, contaminate groundwater, and pose a health hazard.
- Potential Legal Issues – Depending on where you live, installing a septic tank yourself may be illegal. Even if it is legal, you may need to obtain permits and meet certain standards that require technical knowledge and expertise.
- Risk of Injury – Septic tank installation is a dangerous job that requires heavy machinery and excavation work. Without the proper safety equipment and training, you run the risk of serious injury or even death.
Hiring Professional Septic Tank Installers
While a DIY septic tank installation may seem like a good idea, hiring a professional is the best option. A professional septic tank installer has the technical knowledge, experience, and tools required to install the septic tank correctly. Here are some of the pros and cons of hiring a professional.
Pros
- Technical Expertise – A professional septic tank installer has the technical expertise required to install the septic tank correctly. They have the knowledge and experience to ensure that the septic system is installed according to the required standards and regulations.
- Cost-Effective – While hiring a professional may seem expensive, it is actually cost-effective in the long run. A septic system that is not installed correctly can cause significant problems down the line, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
- Safety – Hiring a professional ensures that the septic tank is installed safely. They have the proper safety equipment and training to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Warranty – Professional septic tank installers may offer a warranty on their work. If there are any issues with the septic system after installation, they will come back and fix the problem at no cost.
Cons
- Cost – The only significant disadvantage of hiring a professional is the cost. However, as we’ve discussed, hiring a professional is cost-effective in the long run.
- Dependence on the Installer – Once you hire a professional, you become dependent on them for the installation. This may not be an issue if you hire a reputable installer, but it is something to consider.
Your septic system is a crucial component of your home, and its proper functioning is vital to the safety and wellbeing of you, your family, and your property. Septic tank installation is a significant project that requires technical knowledge and expertise, so while a DIY septic tank installation may seem like a cost-effective option, it is not recommended.
Finding a Reliable Septic Installer
Finding a reliable septic company is important for ensuring that your septic system is properly installed, maintained, and functioning efficiently. Here are some tips on how to find a reputable and reliable septic contractor:
- Look for licensed and insured contractors. Make sure that the contractor you hire is licensed and insured to work on septic systems in your state. This will help protect you from liability in case of any accidents or damage during the repair or installation process.
- Check for references. Ask the contractor for references from previous clients who have had similar work done. This will allow you to hear firsthand about their experiences working with the contractor and the quality of the work that was performed.
- Read reviews. Check online reviews from previous customers to see what they have to say about their experience with the contractor. This can give you a good idea of their reputation and the quality of their work.
- Ask about experience. Find out how long the contractor has been working on septic systems and if they have experience working on systems similar to yours. This can help ensure that they have the knowledge and expertise needed to properly repair or install your septic system.
- Get multiple quotes. Shop around and get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure that you are getting a fair price for the work that needs to be done. However, be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others, as this could be a red flag for low-quality work or hidden fees.
By following these tips, you can find a reliable septic contractor who will provide quality work and ensure that your septic system is properly maintained for years to come.
The Best Septic Company In & Near Lakeland
Srtonghold Plumbing & Septic should be the choice when you need plumbing and septic services in and near Lakeland. As one of the best septic company in Lakeland and nearby, we offer septic tank pumping, replacements, and drain fields for residential and commercial properties.
Contact us today for more information or a free estimate.
