Everything You Need to Know About Septic Tank Lids

Septic tank lids provide important access to underground septic systems. Knowing where your septic tank lid is located and maintaining it properly is crucial for effective system function. This comprehensive guide will provide homeowners with tips for locating, accessing, and caring for their septic tank lids.

Septic tanks are underground components of septic systems that collect and treat household wastewater. They are commonly made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. At the top of the tank, an access point with a lid allows service providers to pump out solids that accumulate in the tank. Keeping this access clear and undamaged is essential.

Locating Your Septic Tank Lid

Finding where your septic tank lid is located on your property is the first step. Here are some tips to help you find it:

• Check the septic system design diagram from your home inspection. It should indicate all system components.
• Follow the wastewater pipes exiting your home to locate the tank. It will be somewhere along this pipe run underground.
• Look for low spots or high spots in your yard. Tanks are often buried beneath these areas.
• Use a thin metal probe to feel for hard objects beneath grassy areas. Mark any suspicious spots.
• Avoid building permanent structures or parking vehicles in areas where you suspect the tank could be.

If you simply cannot locate your septic tank lid, a septic service professional can assist in finding it with special tools. Calling a professional regularly to pump your tank can also help you remember its location.

Importance of Accessing Septic Tank Lids

Maintaining clear access to your septic tank lid is crucial for the following reasons:

• Quickly identifying issues - Easy access allows you to promptly detect leaks, cracks, or other problems.
• Preventing collapse - Weight from structures or vehicles can damage fiberglass and concrete tanks.
• Enabling service - Professionals need direct access to pump out solids and inspect the tank.

Because the lid provides the only access to your buried septic tank, keeping the surrounding area clear and the lid undamaged is essential.

Maintaining Your Septic Tank Lid

Simple lid maintenance steps include:

• Cutting grass low around the lid area for visibility.
• Removing dirt, leaves, or other debris on or around the lid.
• Checking for cracks, leaks, and damage regularly.
• Marking or fencing the area so others don't build or park on it.

Avoid placing heavy loads directly on the lid. Use riser accessories to raise the lid above grade when needed. Contact professionals immediately for any major damage or repairs needed.

Types of Septic Tank Lids

The most common residential septic tank lid types include:

• Concrete lids - Heavy but durable option for underground tanks.
• Plastic lids - Affordable, lightweight lids for risers and access ports.
• Fiberglass lids - Used to cover fiberglass septic tanks.
• Aluminum lids - Lightweight but strong metal lids.

Companies like Tuf-Tite, Polylok, and Orenco Systems manufacture plastic and fiberglass septic tank lids, risers, and covers in various shapes and sizes. Concrete precast companies offer custom concrete lids.

Choosing the Right Septic Tank Lid

Consider the following when selecting a replacement septic tank lid:

• Measure the access opening size to get the right diameter lid.
• Choose lightweight fiberglass or plastic lids if concrete is too heavy.
• Select domed lids if the riser pipe is slightly larger than the lid.
• Pick flat lids for precise fit into 20-24 inch PVC risers.
• Buy lids with security screws to keep in place.

Companies like Tuf-Tite provide customer support to help select the correctly sized septic tank lid for your exact application.

Installing Septic Tank Lids

Follow these steps to install a new septic tank lid:

1. Prepare the tank opening area by clearing dirt and cutting grass.
2. Measure opening size to order the right lid diameter.
3. Carefully clean and prepare tank and riser surfaces.
4. Lower lid straight down into riser to ensure proper fit.
5. Secure lid with attachment screws if applicable.
6. Test for leaks and proper seal.

Always use care when lifting concrete lids yourself. Have professionals assist with heavy concrete lids or deep tank access. For DIY plastic and fiberglass lid installation, carefully follow all manufacturer's instructions.

Replacing Septic Tank Lids

Some signs that your septic tank lid needs replacement include:

• Cracks or broken areas
• Permanent dirt/grass stain indicating a poor seal
• Difficulty removing the lid for service
• Corroded or damaged hardware
• Evidence of tank leaks around lid

Replace damaged lids as soon as possible to prevent safety hazards and ensure proper tank function. For deep tanks, a riser system can also make future lid replacements much simpler.

Septic Tank Lid Safety Tips

Exercise caution when accessing your septic tank lid with these safety tips:

• Keep children and pets away from the lid area.
• Always secure the lid after opening to prevent falls.
• Test for dangerous gases before approaching the tank.
• Use helpers and proper lifting techniques when removing heavy concrete lids.
• Avoid sources of ignition since sewer gases are flammable.

For maximum safety, homeowners should call a professional whenever possible to access and service the septic tank. Only attempt minor lid repairs and maintenance independently.

DIY vs Professional Septic Tank Lid Installation

Homeowners can usually replace lightweight fiberglass or plastic septic tank lids on their own if the riser depth is minimal. However, it's often best to call a professional for lid installation in these cases:

• Concrete lids requiring two or more people to lift
• Lids for deep tank access over 5 feet below grade
• Existing broken lid pieces must be removed
• Any needed underground repairs are identified
• Riser installation or alignment is required

Septic service professionals have the right tools and expertise to safely access tanks, evaluate any issues, and correctly replace lids. This provides homeowners with added peace of mind.

Cost to Replace a Septic Tank Lid

Typical costs to replace a septic tank lid include:

• Plastic lid: $50 - $350
• Fiberglass lid: $250 - $550
• Concrete lid: $400 - $950
• Professional installation: $200 - $750

Lid costs vary based on size, material, customization, and manufacturer chosen. Installation fees depend on location, site conditions, tank depth, and complexity. Installing a riser system to simplify access can add $800 - $1500 to the total project cost.