How Far Apart Are Septic Tank Lids

Septic tank lids are located a little distance from one another. Generally, there are two lids in the case of large septic tanks. The lids help to open the septic tank and carry out various tasks like inspection, pumping, or repair. Knowing the distance between the lids can make your job convenient. In this article, we will discuss how far apart the septic tank lids are located, why we need to know the location of the lids, and a lot more.

So, ‘How far apart are septic tank lids?’ The distance between the lids of a septic tank is generally different for different sizes of tanks. A 1000-gallon tank will have the lids at a distance between 6 to 6.5 feet, while a 1250-gallon tank will have lids between 7 to 7.5 feet. A 1500-gallon tank will have a distance of 8.5 to 9 feet between its lids.

Continue reading to know why some septic tanks have two lids, how to lift the lids of the septic tanks, why you should find the lids, and a lot more.

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Need to Need the Location of Septic Tank Lid – Why is it Necessary

Often homeowners do not realize how important it is to know the location of the septic tank lid and the tank. Septic tanks are quite large but still they are often difficult to locate. This is especially when they are not maintained.

If you are aware of the location of the septic tank lid, you can easily identify all issues quickly. For example, if you come across flooding in a specific spot, you will know that there is a problem related to overloading.

When you know about the presence of the lid, you can ensure that there is no heavy object over the septic tank. You will also confirm that no vehicle drives over it. You can also avoid parking. If the location of the tank is unknown, it might be damaged unknowingly.

It can lead to the collapse of the septic tank and result in its immense damage.

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Finding the Lids of a Septic Tank – Steps

To find the lids of the septic tank, you can follow a few steps:

Check the Map – This is the easiest option available. The property map will have a diagram and it will show the location and dimension of the septic tank. You will also get this diagram from your home inspection papers.

Look for Signs – Have a look at your yard carefully. You will definitely come across some low spots or even high spots, which indicate the presence of the buried tank. At times, the grass grows back in the spot and looks different from the other parts. Thus, look for unusual mounds in the yard.

Look at The Pipe – This is an easy way to locate the lid of septic tanks. The septic tank is usually installed along a sewer line. This will extend from your home to the front yard. So, all you need to do is follow where the pipes are going and where they are stopping. Their ending point will probably be the location of the septic tank.

Spot the Lid – As you find the septic tank, you will be able to spot the lid in a short time. The lid is generally in the center of this rectangle. Some septic tanks have two lids, and some will have one lid. This depends on the year when the septic tank was installed.

As you find the septic tank lid, do not forget to mark its location. Thus, next time, you will not face any problems to find the lids.

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Removing Septic Tank Lid

When you are looking for a septic tank, you need to begin the process of digging so that you can get the lid up. To remove the septic tank lid, you can use a shovel. It helps in excavating the ground just around the tank.

Generally, the ground is dug which creates 16 inches of clearance on the different sides of the lid. It is good that you slope the land while digging down. Thus, the gravel does not fall back in the process.

How to Lift the Septic Tank Lid?

The lid of any septic tank is usually a lot heavy. It is generally a big piece of concrete, and it is totally flat on its sides. There is usually a handle for pulling it.

In most instances, the septic tank will require a pry bar for lifting it out. You have to set the pry bar and then press it down. Again, you will need some help in moving up the lid from the hole. Once you successfully lift it, you can place this aside so that it does not come in the way of anything.

Tips to Maintain the Lids of Your Septic Tank

As you locate the septic tank lid, you have to ensure that it is well maintained. If it is maintained well, you will not have to worry about any damage. Besides, you are assured of easy access whenever professionals need to access it.

Here are some tips which will help maintain the septic tank lid:

Ensure that there is nothing heavy on the septic tank lid. The lid is not made to withstand or hold heavy things.
You have to ensure that you keep grass and vegetation around the septic tank short.

Mark the area so that no heavy vehicles move over the septic tank lid. Besides, when you need to access the tank the next time, you do not face any trouble locating it.

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Questions Related to How Far Apart are Septic Tank Lids

Do most septic tanks have concrete lids?

Yes, most septic tank uses a concrete lid because it prevents odor from leaking out. Concrete lids also prevent sewage from seeping to the ground.

How much will I have to pay for a new septic tank lid?

Septic tank replacement lids generally cost between $30 to $70. However, costs depend on your location and the specific contractor.

What will happen if I accidentally drive over a septic tank lid?

If you accidentally drive over the lid, the concrete might get damaged. It can crack up which will cause long term problems. There might be stench leaking out or it can lead to the collapse of the whole system.

My septic tank has two lids – why?

Tanks which were installed before 1975 might have one lid in the center. However, tanks that are installed after 1975 have two compartments. Thus, there are two lids for the two compartments.

Why are the two lids at a distance?

The two lids are at a distance so that they are convenient to access. If two or more people are working on the septic tank, they might face space constraints if the two openings of the tank are side by side. Thus, large size tanks usually have two lids.

Septic tank lids are one of those components which are extremely essential for a septic system. They provide a way to enter the system. Whether there are two lids or one, you have to know the location of the lid for convenience and to save time when the professionals step in.