Finding your septic system’s drainfield isn’t always easy, so here are 3 ways to help you locate it.
- Probe the yard and feel for gravel. The drainfield lines are buried in gravel to aid the process of treating wastewater. Finding gravel might be an indication that you’ve found the drainfield. Caution – this may be difficult in areas where the soil is rocky or hard.
- Check for records with the permitting authority, the designer or the installer. However, be aware that drawings of septic systems aren’t always 100% accurate.
- Look at the yard. While it’s common to not have any signs of the drainfield’s location, look for lines of depressed areas, dead grass or green grass. These may lead you to the drainfield.
Of all the components of a septic tank, the drainfield is the most important because it’s here that treatment occurs. You can’t prolong its life if you don’t know where it is! If you know its location, you can avoid accidental damage by avoiding the following:
- Driving over it. Driving a vehicle or heavy equipment can crush the lines in a drainfield.
- Building over it. Driveways, pools, sheds, house additions, etc. can cause damage and also make the lines difficult to access for repairs.
- Landscaping near or over it. Septic systems and trees are not a good match. Invading roots can cause serious damage.
At Lee Kirk & Sons Septic in Lakeland, Florida, we can take care of all your waste removal needs with our wide range of residential septic services. You’ll never have to deal with a failed system! Call today for a free estimate!