Septic System Repairs + Installations

Building a new home or need repairs? We've got you covered.

We've been in the septic business for over 60 years, so when it comes to the condition of your septic system, John Kline is a name you can trust. There are various reasons you may need to have a new system installed:

• New construction
• Your old system cannot manage the water flow or consumption for your household
• You current septic system requires extensive repairs, or the tank is cracked and needs replaced
• Your tank or drainfield do not successfully filter wastewater and cannot pass inspection

Regardless of the reason you need a new septic system, a septic system installation is a job that needs to be done right. While we're happy to handle minor repairs, we're pleased to partner with Central, Pa's leading septic repair and installation team at Sam's Backhoe & Septic Repair for system installations. Sam and his crew do high quality work and can manage your installation from site prep to building your drainfield, placing your tank, and connecting your piping, filtration and plumbing components.

Before You Install a Septic System

Septic systems rely on permeable soil surrounding the tank to absorb and naturally treat liquid residue so that it doesn’t contaminate runoff water or leak into the water table. This area is known as the drain or leach field. Before installing a septic tank, you’re legally obligated to obtain a percolation or “perc” test. This test confirms the soil meets requirements set by the city and local health department. Usually, the soil is required to have adequate amounts of permeable contents like sand or gravel. Once the land passes the percolation test, you’ll be able to obtain a permit and start the installation process.

Note: If you want to put a septic tank on a piece of land, it must pass the percolation test. We recommend ordering a test before purchasing the land you want to use for residential purposes.

Excavation + Site Prep

Heavy equipment is needed to excavate the large amount of land necessary for a septic tank, drainfield and/or sandmound system. If you currently reside on the land, make sure to budget landscaping costs to fix any damage incurred during excavation. If you’re building a new home, schedule the excavation at a time when it’ll have minimal impact on the construction process. Typically, this is before paving the driveways and sidewalks, but after the main frame of the home is built.

When you have your perc test and your land has been prepped, you'll need to decide what type of septic system is best for your home or business/property. The team at Sam's Backhoe & Septic Repairs can provide guidance to make sure your new system will be the right size and the right type for your needs. There are various systems you can go with, depending on the condition of your soil. Your perc test will offer insight as to what type of system you'll require.

There are also various types of tanks you can install. Everyone's land and soil is different, so we recommend asking the experts for their recommendation. Concrete is extremely durable, but it will cost more than plastic. And while durable, it's also more difficult to repair. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

• Concrete—Concrete septic tanks are durable and rust-proof but are hard to repair if damaged.
• Plastic—Plastic tanks are cost-effective but prone to damage.
• Fiberglass—Fiberglass septic tanks are stronger than their plastic counterpart but can be shifted or displaced if the water table rises too high.

Once you decide on the type of system you plan to install, an excavating crew can begin the work and get your new septic system working for you in a matter of days. Be prepared, a septic system is a large investment - but it's worth making sure things are done right. In addition to septic installations, Sam's Backhoe & Septic repairs specializes in a variety of excavating, demolition and snow removal services. From grading, hauling and water or sewer services, to digging for foundations, footers and concrete work. Contact them today for all your Central, Pa excavating needs!

In need of septic service, pumping or grease maintenance? We've got you covered. Our crew can get your lines open and your toilets flushing smoothly. We offer professional and affordable septic pumping, inspections and hydraulic load testing for homeowners throughout Central Pa. Our technicians are PSMA certified and can help diagnose any problems you may have. Get in touch today to schedule your next septic pumping or inspection.