When it comes to having a septic tank installed, there is no one-size-fits-all price tag. While the actual cost can be quite affordable, there are different factors that will determine the final price.
To give you the best idea of how much it costs to install a septic tank, this article will explore those factors to help you decide what system is perfect for your home so you can plan your budget accordingly.
How Much Does a Septic Tank Cost?
On average, a new septic tank system is going to cost between $1,500 to $5,000 – but there are many factors to consider to obtain an accurate price.
Most notably, you will have to take into consideration the type of septic tank, the material it is made out of, and the size of your home.
Keep in mind that there are additional installation costs as well.
3 Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Septic Tank
The first step in determining how much it costs to install a septic tank is figuring out exactly what type of septic system is suitable for your home.
1. Septic Tank Type
The total cost of installing a septic tank is going to depend largely on the type of system you choose for your home:
- Anaerobic Septic System: This is a common choice for homeowners because an anaerobic system does not require additional power or chemicals. It contains a type of bacteria that do not need oxygen to break down solid waste and remain in liquid form. (Average Cost: $2,000-$5,000)
- Aerobic Septic System: Aerobic septic systems use bacteria that do require oxygen which is pumped into the tank. This system is preferential if your soil isn’t favorable or the groundwater table around your home is high. (Average Cost: $10,000-$20,000)
- Gravity Septic System: This system uses gravity for water flow and filtration instead of a pump and must be installed on a gentle slope to work. (Average Cost: $1,500-$4,000)
- Conventional Septic System: A conventional septic system includes a tank and trench that acts as a drain field and requires a large space. (Average Cost: $2,000-$5,000)
- Chamber Septic System: This system is similar to the conventional septic systems except plastic chambers are used instead of gravel in the drain field. (Average Cost: $1,500-$5,000)
- Mound Septic System: If the groundwater around your home is close to the surface, a mound septic system is recommended. Sand is used to create a mound to pump wastewater from the tank to the mound and then filters the water before it reaches the soil. (Average Cost: $10,000-$20,000)
2. Septic Tank Materials
Apart from the type of tank you choose, the material it is made from can influence the total cost:
- Concrete: This durable material is commonly used and, when properly maintained, can last 20-30 years. (Average Cost: $750-$2,050)
- Plastic: Plastic tanks are easy to install, lightweight, and durable. (Average Cost: $850-$1,400)
- Fiberglass: When used underground, fiberglass does not weaken and will not attract algae growth. It’s a light tank that is easy to install. (Average Cost: $1,600-$2,000)
3. Septic Tank Size
The size of your septic tank is typically determined by the number of bedrooms in your home in order to estimate how much water will flow through the system each day:
- Two Bedrooms: Minimum 750-gallon septic tank (unless your municipality requires a minimum size of 1,000 gallons)
- Three Bedrooms: Minimum 1000-gallon septic tank
- Four Bedrooms: Minimum 1,250-gallon septic tank
Septic Tank Installation Costs
Once you know the type and size you need, as well as what material you want it made out of, the installation of a septic tank involves a variety of costs:
- Soil Testing: Testing must be done by a qualified engineer to determine the type of soil and how deep each layer of soil is. This will help determine how well-suited the area is for a septic system. (Average Cost: $1,000-$2,000)
- System Design: Your septic system must be designed in order to properly function for your home and this can take 2-3 weeks to complete. (Average Cost: $600)
- Land Clearing: For a quarter-acre light cleaning on flat ground, the average cost is $950 but this can vary depending on the landscape of your property.
- Installation and Connection: This cost is determined per linear foot from your home to the septic tank and includes excavation, installation, and backfill. (Average Cost: $1,000-$1,500)
- Drain Field: This cost is also based on linear foot as well as the cost of the actual drain field. (Average Cost: $3,000-$15,000)
- Inspection and Testing: Once the septic system is installed, it must pass a final inspection which requires specific permits determined by your local health department. (Average Cost: $250-$450)
There are also additional costs that need to be taken into consideration such as the cost of landscaping once the tank is installed as well as the purchase of a pump alarm to notify you of high-water levels or pump failures.
Septic Tank Repair Costs
Before you go ahead and purchase an entirely new septic system, it may be worth looking at the possibility of having your current system repaired.
Overall, repairs can cost less than a full replacement if the majority of your system is in good shape.
Here are some common repairs and their average costs for replacement:
- Drain Field: $3,000-$11,000
- Tank Pump: $500-$1,200
- Tank Lid: $35-$60
- Tank Baffle: $25-$45
Leave it to the Professionals!
The best way to find out how much it costs to install a septic tank is to talk to a professional.
Our team of certified technicians can help you determine the best course of action when it comes to installing a septic system for your home.
If your septic system is in need of replacement, don’t put it off! Contact Peak Sewer & Underground Services to inspect your septic tank and design the perfect system for your home!