What Is a Septic Tank Riser?
What Does A Septic Riser Do? A septic tank riser is either a plastic, fiberglass, or concrete vertical pipe that runs or extends from the access ports (pumping opening) of your underground septic tank to the ground surface. Risers have a secure lid on the top that enable easy access to tank for routine inspection, maintenance or pumping without digging up your yard. Nowadays, all new septic tanks come with risers. On the other hand, older septic systems do not have risers. You can easily install a riser on an old septic tank by buying a do-it-yourselfer septic riser kit.
What Are the Benefits of Risers?
A septic system is emptied or pumped out every three to five years. The process involves guessing where the tank is located and digging up the yard in order to access the buried septic tank. Sometimes the tank is not located where you anticipated, and you have to dig again at another location. This is labor- and time-intensive. On the other hand, there is no guesswork with a septic riser, you simply open the lid to access the septic tank.
Concrete Septic Tank Risers
Concrete septic tank risers are a popular choice for many homeowners who want a durable and long-lasting solution for their septic tank system. The risers are made of reinforced concrete, which is a strong and sturdy material that can last for decades. This makes them an ideal option for those looking to upgrade their septic tank system and avoid costly repairs and maintenance in the future.
One of the biggest benefits of using concrete septic tank risers is their durability. Unlike plastic risers, which can be easily crushed or damaged, concrete risers are built to last. They can withstand heavy loads and extreme weather conditions, making them an ideal choice for a variety of applications. With proper installation and maintenance, concrete risers can last for up to 40 years, providing homeowners with a long-lasting and reliable solution. Another advantage of concrete septic tank risers is their low maintenance costs. Because they are durable and long-lasting, concrete risers require less maintenance and repair than plastic risers. This can save homeowners money in the long run, as they will not have to replace their risers as frequently as they would with plastic risers.
Despite their many benefits, concrete septic tank risers do have some drawbacks. For one, they are more costly to install than plastic risers. This is because they require heavy equipment and specialized installation techniques, which can drive up the cost of installation. Additionally, over time, concrete risers can corrode and crack, which can lead to costly repairs and maintenance.
Plastic Septic Tank Risers
Septic tank risers are an important part of the septic tank system, as they help to bring the septic tank access point to the surface for easy maintenance and inspection. Plastic septic tank risers are a popular option in the industry because they are relatively cheap and easy to install compared to concrete risers. They are made of PVC or polyethylene, which are durable and resistant to corrosion and cracking. This makes them an attractive option for homeowners and businesses looking to upgrade their septic tank system.
However, plastic septic tank risers do have some drawbacks. For one, they are not as sturdy as concrete risers and can be easily crushed if not properly installed. This can lead to costly repairs and maintenance, which can offset the initial savings from choosing a plastic riser over a concrete one. In addition, plastic risers are not as durable as concrete risers and may need to be replaced more frequently. This can result in higher long-term costs for the homeowner or business.
Overall, plastic septic tank risers are a viable option for those looking to upgrade their septic tank system, but it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Concrete risers may be a better choice for those who want a more durable and long-lasting solution. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional septic tank specialist before making any decisions about your septic tank system.
What Does A Septic Riser Do: FAQs
A septic riser is an important asset for any septic system. The following are some frequently asked questions about a septic riser:
How much do risers cost?
The cost of septic risers usually depends on the material. Plastic risers are more affordable and typically cost $400 to install. Concrete risers, on the other hand, are more expensive and require the use of heavy equipment to install.
Do septic risers smell?
Septic risers will only smell if they have cracks or are not closed or if the septic lid is not properly sealed or secured.
How many risers should a septic tank have?
The number of risers in a septic tank is determined by the type of the septic tank. Most modern septic systems have two septic risers.
Installation Usually Requires a Plumber
You have just bought your riser DIY installation kit and are wondering whether it is safe to install the septic riser yourself? The installation of a riser should be done by professionals who are trained in this field, which can include plumbers or others with the appropriate training. Some people might think that opening a septic tank access is an easy job, but it can be dangerous. The gases that come out of the septic tank are highly flammable, poisonous and noxious, and can knock you unconscious. Opening a septic tank is not a job for one person. We recommend that you work with another person and wear protective clothing, gloves, boots, goggles and a mask when opening the tank.
How do you hide a septic tank riser?
Here are a few steps you can follow to hide a septic tank riser:
- Choose an appropriate location for the septic tank riser. Place it in an area that is not too visible, such as behind a large tree, shrub, or hedge.
- Use a riser cover that matches the color of the surrounding soil, grass, or rocks. This will help the riser blend in and become less noticeable.
- Plant shallow-rooted plants around the riser. This will help keep the riser hidden, while also providing some additional beauty and greenery to the area.
- Use mulch or ground cover to further disguise the riser. This can help create a natural look and hide the riser from view.
- Consider using a fence or wall to block the view of the riser. This can be an effective way to hide the riser and create a more private area around the septic tank.
In conclusion, there are many ways to hide a septic tank riser, and the best option will depend on the specific circumstances of your property. By using a riser cover, planting shallow-rooted plants, and adding mulch or ground cover, you can effectively hide the riser and create a more attractive and functional septic system.
What Does A Septic Riser Do: Final Thoughts
Septic risers are an essential part of any septic tank system. They are used to bring the access point of the septic tank to the surface, making it easier to inspect and maintain the tank. This can save homeowners and businesses time and money, as it reduces the need for costly digging and excavation during inspection or pumping. Septic risers are available in a variety of materials, including plastic and concrete. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best option will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the homeowner or business.
