Whether you're doing new construction or just learning about the systems, you may never have considered the regulations that come with them. The MPCA (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency) has rules about how they are installed, designed, and managed.

These regulations are enforced and implemented via local ordinances and townships, counties, and cities, and if they are not followed, they can end up costing you!

Fortunately, the team at Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning has created this comprehensive guide to help you understand how the system works and things to consider if you are scheduling a new install.

What Is a Septic System?

Septic systems, also known as septic tanks, are designed to treat sewage from homes before it moves into cleaner, treated water. They're usually more common in rural areas or places that don't have public sewer systems and are used for underground wastewater treatment. 

The design includes a septic tank, drainage pipe, and a drain field for the filtered water, and it's recommended that they be inspected and pumped every two to three years to ensure they're not clogging, deteriorating, or working improperly.

How Does a Septic System Work?

A standard system can range up to 2000 gallons, and as the water travels from every drain in your home, it goes into one pipe. 

The system is designed so that once any waste goes into the tank, it has anaerobic bacteria that will break down and digest the organic materials. Any organic materials form a sludge on the bottom, and any oily matter like grease or fats rises to the surface. 

A special design inside the system keeps solid material from exiting the tank, so the remaining water exits out and flows into the drainage field. 

This water eventually seeps into the surrounding soil, fostering organic decomposition and a natural percolation that cleans the water by removing harmful viruses, bacteria, and nutrients.

How Do You Locate Your Septic System?

For those of you with newer units, you might have an access lid that's at ground level and easy to spot somewhere in your yard. 

If you're dealing with an older system, it might be buried under greener or faster-growing spots or potentially less growth than other areas. 

If you're still unable to find it, you can always contact the local health department to access records for your property and get a built-in diagram.

What Do Minnesota Regulations Look Like for a New Septic Install?

Each installation is unique, and the local regulations can vary depending on the size of the building, the tank needed, and how often it will be used. 

A full description of the system, including a legal description of the property, needs to be included for the permitting department. 

You also need to ensure that any contractors are licensed and a soil test is completed before the installation to ensure it complies with the local or state authorities.

Schedule Expert Septic System Cleaning in Minnesota

One of the biggest parts of upkeep and care for your system is cleaning it out every few years. When you need experts on the job, Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning has you covered.

Our team specializes in everything from septic to drain cleaning services, and we work hard to make sure our customers are 100% satisfied.

Need fast and easy septic cleaning services in the Twin Cities? Give our office a call at 763-913-8719, or click on the link to get your free estimate.