Last Updated on April 15, 2022 by Kravelv
A septic tank is a very crucial thing in a home. You cannot risk the unhealthful and dangerous condition that comes with its breakdown. However, you can’t deny the fact that the tank will at some point get spoilt. What do you do when this happens? Well, there are several reasons why the baffle on septic tank might get faulty, including a leak, a clog in the tank, or even a construction error. At the same time, various parts of the tank might break down. These parts may include; the drainpipe, the baffle, or the lid of the tank.
Repairing the whole tank might be just as hard and costly as setting up a new one. So you need to make sure that you seal any breakages immediately. This blog discusses one part of the container that is crucial and what to do to replace it in case of damage and the cost of replacing it – the baffle.
What really is the septic tank baffle?
Not everyone with a septic tank might actually know all the parts of the tank and what their functions are. Some may know these parts only if they call the plumber to fix up some issues. One disadvantage to this is that sometimes you might end up paying more for repair due to lack of idea of what the plumber will charge. It is just understandable not to know about these parts. Yet still, you may need to have an idea of what a septic tank baffle is and what it does in the tank.
Well, a baffle is a part within your Conroe septic pumping system that prevents froth and filth from accumulating in the outlet or inlet pipes connected to your tank. The inlet baffle gives the debris from the sewer in the house directly into the tank. This creates a long delay time for solids to settle as well as preventing the floating debris from clogging the pipe. The outlet baffle, on the other hand, deals with the outgoing debris. It ensures that the debris does not pass to the drain field, thereby allowing only clear fluid to pass through.
How to know if a septic tank baffle needs replacement
It might be challenging to identify a spoilt baffle unless you are keen enough. So when do you really know that the baffle will need to be replaced? First of all, the baffles in older tanks are usually cast-in-place concrete. Those in new tanks are sanitary tees allowing a sewage screen at the outlet. So, if a deterioration of the baffle makes it not to accomplish its purpose, it needs replacement. Many authorities require sewage screens to repair the tank. It’s vital to comply with your area authority requirements on that issue.
Sometimes your baffle might have corroded. You can check if that is the case or it is wrongly designed. Contact a professional if you realize that is the reason. A professional contractor can help determine the best resolution to this problem using the latest technology, equipment, technique, and septic tank design.
When removing the concrete remains of a baffle during replacement, especially for old tanks, you need to be cautious not to damage the tank wall. Replacing your baffle might also help you find out if the tank also needs replacement.
How much will replacing the baffle cost you?
The cost of baffle replacement may vary from location to location. However, the average cost should be $100, though sometimes you might spend about $300-400. The costs might also vary due to several factors, including the plumber or septic tank company you are dealing with, the type of baffle and tank involved, as well as the local or state baffle replacement requirements. Other cost factors may also be involved, such as; the materials used, the soil types in your home, the time of the year, and the urgency of the repair or replacement need.
Replacing the baffle during snow periods might be expensive as it requires more effort to reach the septic; thereby, labor cost is high. Also, a new need for replacement might cause you more as compared to the awaited need for replacement.
Frequently asked questions about baffle on septic tank
What does a baffle do in a septic tank?
The outlet baffle is frequently regarded as the most significant baffle because it prevents sediments from departing the tank and entering the leach field, where they might clog the system and cause it to fail. This is a severe problem since replacing a leach field is quite expensive. Unfortunately, this puzzle is the first to fall apart.
The intake baffle is located at the intersection of the septic tank and the house’s main sewage line. It’s made to ensure that wastewater enters the tank smoothly and without upsetting the scum layer. It also directs wastewater down, then across, then up the septic tank, giving it more time to separate than if it just went straight across.
How to know if the septic tank is clogged?
Water Levels Increasing Drainfield pipes that crack open and burst open instead of clogging release an excessive amount of water onto the field area. Puddles or spongy and mushy ground may be visible across the region. Water levels within the baffle on septic tank might also rise as a result of a blocked or crushed drain field.
What are the possible causes of leaks in a new baffle tee?
Proper sealing prevents leaks at the new baffle tee. Aside from effluent, groundwater may flood and damage the system. In the worst case, sewage backup occurs into the building. Hiring a licensed septic tank service is highly recommended if you notice any leak in your new baffle tee.
How do I go about a septic tank with an inlet pipe but no tee?
You can enlarge the inlet hole on the tank’s side and install a tee. You can buy a plastic pipe tee with a smaller male insert diameter that fits inside the outlet pipe. If this isn’t possible, you’ll need to remove a part of the existing pipe. This way, it’ll make room in the septic tank wall, where you can insert and seal the new tee.
Is it safe to remove an inlet baffle from a septic tank?
No. Never remove an inlet baffle from the tank. There’s a risk of clogging at the septic tank inlet, resulting in a nasty sewage backup into the building.
The Bottom Line
Your septic tank will need repair at some point in time. It may be baffle requiring replacement or the lid repair. The point is; prevention is always better than cure. So why wait to spend more to repair or replace a full septic tank, which might be very costly while you can handle a faulty baffle? You know what it takes to restore your baffle. Do not wait to replace the whole tank!
