What is the least expensive septic tank?

Replacing a home&#;s septic system is often an expensive and complicated home renovation. Homeowners should know that septic tank replacement isn&#;t a DIY-friendly repair. Chances are, you&#;ll need the help of one or more professionals to ensure your septic system is installed safely and complies with local land codes. 

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Between materials, permits, and labor, it can get costly. This post will provide a complete breakdown of how much a new septic system costs and how to finance the replacement.

How much does a new septic system cost?

The cost of a new septic system depends on several factors, including material, type, property size and layout, and drain field conditions. Keep in mind the figures mentioned below refer to the septic tank itself, not the complete installation. 

Septic tank material

The price of a new septic tank depends largely on the durability of its materials. Septic tanks are usually constructed out of:

• Concrete: Concrete tanks are some of the most common types of septic tanks found in homes. However, property owners should keep in mind that concrete is prone to cracking. Concrete septic tanks cost between $700&#;$2,000. &#;
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass septic tanks are less likely to crack than concrete septic tanks. Their lightweight material can sustain structural shifts below the home, which minimizes the risk of tank damage. Fiberglass septic tank prices range from $1,200&#;$2,000.&#;
• Plastic: Plastic septic tanks start at just $500, making them less expensive than concrete and fiberglass septic tanks. However, given their flimsy material, plastic septic tanks can easily break, making them a risky investment for many homeowners.&#;
• Steel: Nowadays, installing a steel septic tank is rare. While many homes currently have such tanks buried in their yards, most septic tank professionals will advise against installing a steel septic tank as a replacement. Steel is prone to rusting, which makes steel septic tanks a safety hazard to your property. 

Property size and layout

Another factor affecting septic tank costs is property size and layout. The bigger the house, the bigger the septic tank needed. Homes with multiple bedrooms tend to have more bathtubs, sinks, toilets, and other wastewater sources than homes with just one or two bedrooms.

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 Here&#;s a quick breakdown of how much a septic tank costs by house size:

• Homes with 2 bedrooms require a 750 to 1,000-gallon septic tank which costs $700-$1,200.
• Homes with 3-4 bedrooms require a 1,000-gallon septic tank, which costs $900&#;$1,500.
• Homes with 5-6 bedrooms require a 1,200 septic tank which costs $1,200&#;$1,600.

Drain field conditions 

The drain field is an important aspect of many septic systems. Also known as the leach field, a home&#;s drain field is a series of underground pipes that dispose of the wastewater collected by your septic system. Not all septic systems require a drain field, but the ones that do are more expensive. On average, installing a drain field costs at least $10,000. 

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Whether or not a home requires a drain field will depend on the efficiency of the septic system you install. Drain field prices are influenced by the size of a home's septic tank. The bigger the septic tank, the more expensive the drain field: 

• A 1,000-gallon septic tank usually has a drain field size of 600 sq. ft and costs about $10,240 to install. 
• A 1,500-gallon septic tank has a drain field size of 750- sq. ft. and costs between $12,430&#;$14,370 to install. 

Aerobic vs. anaerobic septic tanks

Whether or not a septic tank is aerobic or anaerobic will also impact price. Anaerobic septic systems are popular among homeowners because they&#;re more affordable. However, some homeowners prefer aerobic septic systems because they&#;re more efficient. The price difference between the two is steep, with anaerobic systems ranging from $3,000&#;$8,000 and aerobic systems ranging from $10,000&#;$20,000.

Additional costs to consider

On average, installing a brand-new septic system costs $7,470. However, some septic tank installations cost as little as $3,600 or as much as $20,000. The quality of septic materials is just one of many price factors affecting septic system costs. When installing a new septic tank into your home, you also need to consider the cost of labor in your area, site assessments, permits, and other related expenses. Here&#;s a breakdown of additional factors to consider:

Labor costs

Installing a septic system onto a property is a strenuous task. While labor costs vary across the country, homeowners typically pay septic tank professionals $1,400&#;$4,100.

Design and engineering fees

Depending on the size of your septic tank and local regulations, you may need to hire an engineer to develop plans for your septic system installation. Design and engineering fees usually cost between $500&#;$3,000. While this might seem like an unnecessary expense, it&#;s best to abide by all land regulations the first time around to avoid having to redo your septic system in the future. 

Percolation testing 

Percolation testing is essential to determining whether or not a septic tank installation is possible. Perc tests analyze the soil quality and drainage capabilities around the proposed area of a septic system installation. Percolation tests usually cost between $450&#;$1,400, depending on the required tests and the soil&#;s location. 

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A failed percolation test means a soil&#;s percolation rate is too low and may be unsuitable for a septic system installation. In this case, you&#;d need to explore an alternative septic system or test another area on your property. 

Permits

Local governments consider septic system installations land improvements, which often require permits before they can be initiated. Homeowners can obtain these permits from their state and local governments. The average cost of a land permit is between $320&#;$1,880. Keep in mind specific land permits need to be renewed every so often.  

Land surveys

Lastly, homeowners will need to hire a licensed professional to conduct a land survey. It&#;s important to make sure that the proposed site for your septic system installation is actually on your property. The last thing you want to do is install a brand-new septic tank beyond your property lines. Depending on property size and layout, homeowners can expect to pay between $330&#;$900 for a land survey. 

How to finance a new septic system

Paying for a new septic system may be costly, but it isn&#;t impossible. There are several ways homeowners can finance repairs on their property.

Personal loans

Homeowners can cover necessary costs through personal loans. While personal loans are not recommended for property owners with less-than-ideal credit scores, there are some home improvement loans available for bad credit. If you have a good credit score, you might be able to take out a lower-interest or zero-interest rate loan.

Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit 

Another way homeowners can fund a new septic system installation is through a home equity loan or line of credit. Both financing methods allow homeowners to use their homes as collateral in exchange for either a lump-sum payment or a credit line. 

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Access to lower interest rates makes home equity loans and home equity lines of credit an attractive option for many homeowners. However, the amount of money you&#;re allowed to borrow depends on how much equity you&#;ve accumulated in your home.

Home Equity Investments

A third way homeowners can use home equity to finance a septic system installation is through a Home Equity Investment (HEI). An HEI offers a lump sum of cash in exchange for a share of the home's future appreciation. Homeowners can buy back their equity anytime during the 30-year term or repay their investment through the sale or refinance of their property. There are no monthly payments during the flexible 30-year term.

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To qualify, you'll need a minimum credit score of 500, sufficient equity (15% or more), and a home in an eligible location.

How to save money on septic system installation

As you can see from the figures mentioned above, installing a brand-new septic tank onto your property can get quite expensive. Here are a few actions you can take as a savvy homeowner to save money. 

Get multiple quotes

You first want to obtain multiple quotes from several companies specializing in septic system installations. Gather at least three quotes from qualified companies who are insured and have good reviews. Once you&#;ve created a list of quotes from trustworthy companies, compare and contrast the most cost-effective option. 

Purchase septic materials yourself

Another way to reduce septic system costs is to purchase the materials needed for installation. When requesting quotes from different septic system installation companies, ask if they would be willing to install septic materials you&#;ve purchased separately. Big companies may not want to install materials they&#;re unfamiliar with due to warranty or insurance policies. Small contractors, on the other hand, might be more willing to negotiate. Be sure to check in with your chosen septic system company before spending money on any materials. 

Regularly maintain your septic tank

Regular and proactive maintenance is crucial for preserving the longevity and efficiency of a new septic system &#; ultimately leading to significant cost savings. Homeowners usually need to service their septic tanks every 3-5 years, depending on tank size and water usage. Proper maintenance is key to extending your septic system&#;s lifespan and reducing the need for replacement or repairs. 

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Here are a few actions you can take to keep your septic tank in good condition:

• Dispose of waste responsibly: Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items such as diapers, wipes, or paper towels down the toilet. These items can clog your pipes or tank, causing your septic tank to perform poorly. 
• Use septic-safe products: Certain household cleaning supplies cause damage to septic systems by interrupting the healthy balance of bacteria found in the tank. While hazardous chemicals won&#;t clog your septic system, they can still harm the bacteria needed to break down waste and cause inefficiencies.
• Be mindful of your drain field: Regularly parking your car or placing heavy machinery around your home&#;s drain field can lead to soil compaction. Soil compaction occurs when air and water fail to circulate properly within the soil due to excess pressure. Planting trees or large plants on top of or around your drain field can have the same effect. 
• Limit water usage: Using water efficiently is one of the easiest ways to avoid running down your septic system. Leaks and water pressure issues should be addressed as soon as you spot them.

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Final thoughts on septic systems

Installing a septic system on your property is a significant financial investment. As a result, homeowners should understand the factors influencing septic system costs and how to reduce expenses.

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While preparing for a septic system installation may seem daunting, financing it doesn&#;t have to be. If you&#;re in need of a new septic system on your property, consider a Home Equity Investment from Point. Tap into your home&#;s wealth with no monthly payments or need for perfect credit. HEIs make handling a home improvement project or another major life expense easy.

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Written by

Tamatha Hazen

October 2,

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Fact-checked by

Tom Grupa

Average septic system cost

A new septic system costs $3,500 to $8,500 installed for a conventional septic tank. The cost to install a septic system depends on the type, home size, and tank material. Septic tank prices are $1,000 to $1,500 for an average 1,000-gallon tank. An alternative septic system costs $4,000 to $15,000 installed.

Septic tank cost by system type - ChartSeptic tank cost by system type System type Average installed cost Conventional / anaerobic septic tank system $3,500 &#; $8,500 Alternative septic systems $4,000 &#; $15,000 Engineered septic systems $7,000 &#; $20,000

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

Stainless steel septic system being installed on residential property

Conventional / anaerobic septic tank systems

Conventional septic tank systems cost $3,500 to $8,500 installed and are the type most people are familiar with. Conventional systems are primarily gravity fed and use anaerobic bacteria to break down solid waste. The systems include a pipe from your house to the tank and then to the drain field.

Conventional septic tank system installation costs Factor Average cost Septic tank (1,000 gal) $1,000 &#; $1,500 Distribution box $500 &#; $1,000 Labor for site prep / installation $1,000 &#; $4,500 Engineering, permits, and inspections $1,000 &#; $1,500 Total replacement cost $3,500 &#; $8,500

• A septic tank is a large, underground container that treats wastewater from homes that are not connected to a municipal sewer system.

• The septic tank collects the waste, then gravity separates the waste into scum, sludge, and effluent. Bacteria in the tank breaks down the solid waste on the bottom, while the effluent liquids travel out of the tank into the distribution box and are dispersed into the drain field.

Concrete septic tank being installed on ranch house property

Alternative septic systems

Alternative septic systems range widely in price from $4,000 to $15,000. These systems are designed to deal with situations where there is limited space or a drain field is not a viable option. A large home with lots of bedrooms on a small plot of land would require an alternative septic system.

Alternative septic system costs System type Average cost installed Details Chambered system $4,000 &#; $11,000

• Uses a series of buried plastic chambers to treat wastewater
• A good option for areas with high groundwater tables or limited space

Constructed wetland system $7,000 &#; $14,000

• The septic tank is located in a wetland area and surrounded by plants that absorb nutrients in the wastewater and help filter out the solids.

Drip distribution system $6,500 &#; $15,000

• Uses a series of drip emitters to distribute the treated wastewater from the septic tank to the leach field to ensure even distribution

Evapotranspiration system $10,000 &#; $15,000

• The base of the drainfield is lined with a watertight material.
• After the effluent enters the drainfield, it evaporates into the air, never reaching the groundwater.
• Useful in arid climates with adequate heat and sunlight

Engineered septic systems

Engineered systems are the most complex and expensive to install, costing $7,000 to $20,000. Similar to conventional systems, the engineered systems collect and separate waste in a tank but use pumps to move the liquid waste into the leach field for distribution to the ground.

Engineered septic system costs System type Average installed cost Details Aerobic treatment unit (ATU) $10,000 &#; $20,000

• Adds oxygen to the wastewater to break down solids more quickly and efficiently
• Sometimes requires disinfection using chlorine or UV treatment before the wastewater enters the drainfield
• Must be inspected annually at a minimum

Mound septic system $10,000 &#; $20,000

• Drainfield bed that is raised above the natural soil surface with a specific sand fill material
• Useful when there's only 1 to 2 feet of native soil

Recirculating sand filter system $7,000 &#; $15,000

• PVC-lined or concrete box filled with a specific sand fill material
• A small network of pipes is placed in a gravel-filled or no-gravel chamber bed on top of the sand.
• Suitable when there's only 1.5 feet of native soil under the drainfield

Engineered systems are usually needed in areas with poor soil, homes on an uphill slope, or where wastewater must be pumped to a particular area of the property.

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Septic tank installation cost factors

The type of septic system you need is just one of many factors that come into play when estimating the cost of a septic tank installation. Other factors include your household size, tank material, soil conditions, installation labor, site prep, and permitting costs.

Truck with crane delivering new septic tank

Household size

The size of a septic tank is typically based on the number of bedrooms, not bathrooms, in the home. This is because a capacity of 2 people per bedroom is a good indicator of the amount of wastewater that will be produced in the home.

Septic tank prices by gallon size Size (gallons) Average tank cost* Average home size 750 $700 &#; $1,200 1 &#; 2 bedroom 1,000 $1,000 &#; $1,500 3 bedroom 1,250 $1,200 &#; $1,800 4 bedrooms 1,500 $1,500 &#; $2,500 5 bedrooms 1,750 $2,000 &#; $3,000 6+ bedrooms

*Not including installation labor.

Tank material

Septic tanks are buried underground and collect and treat sewage by bacterial decomposition. There are 3 different materials used for septic tanks: concrete, plastic, and fiberglass. Steel tanks are no longer installed due to their high price and low durability.

Septic tank cost by material Material Average cost* Pros Cons Concrete $1,000 &#; $3,000

• Most common septic tank material
• Lasts for decades
• Heavy weight tanks will not float if the water table is near the tank level.
• Strong enough to avoid damage by heavy machines
• Rustproof

• Costly compared to other materials
• Hard to repair when damaged
• Requires heavy equipment to transport and install
• Prone to cracking and seepage of effluent

Plastic (Polyethylene) $700 &#; $2,500

• Economical
• Easy to handle and install
• Lightweight
• Rustproof
• Resist cracking and chemicals

• The tank is lightweight and may float upwards when the water table is near the tank level.
• Heavy weights over the tank will change its shape and could lead to explosion.

Fiberglass (fiber-reinforced plastics) $1,400 &#; $2,000

• Cheaper than concrete and steel
• Stronger than plastic
• High durability
• Rustproof
• Watertight

• Cannot resist buoyant forces and will float or shift when near the water table

*Not including installation labor.

Concrete septic tank system installation on rural property

Soil conditions

Soil conditions also influence the recommended system size and cost. The ideal soil is loamy soil with a good balance of sand and clay that allows wastewater to drain properly. Soil depth is also important, since shallow soils may not have enough time to treat the wastewater before it reaches the groundwater.

A larger septic tank is recommended for yards with sandy or clay soils.

Labor

Installation labor averages $1,500 to $4,000, or nearly 50% of the total cost of installing a septic system. Many factors influence labor costs including:

• System size &#; The larger the system, the more difficult and expensive the labor.

• System type &#; Some system types are also more labor-intensive, including mound systems, aerobic systems, and pressure distribution systems which require more labor to install the pumps and piping.

• Soil conditions &#; Some soil types, like heavy clay, are more difficult to work with and increase the labor costs for site prep.

• Location &#; Septic systems are typically installed in remote areas. Labor costs often increase for those areas to cover the added transportation costs for heavy equipment.

Site prep

Site prep and labor costs overlap since site prep is the most labor-intensive part of the installation process. The site prep required depends on the type and size of septic system you need and whether you are installing a new drain or leach field, which greatly increases the costs.

Common site prep costs include:

• Excavation costs $100 to $300 per hour for an excavator & operator.

• Land leveling costs $500 to $5,000, depending on the yard size.

• Leach field repair costs $1,000 to $5,000, while full replacement costs $3,000 to $15,000.

Excavator digging and placing a concrete septic tank system install

Permits, inspections, and testing

When installing a new or replacement septic tank system, expect to spend $1,000 to $2,000 on average for permits, inspections, and necessary testing. Requirements vary by location.

• Building permits cost $250 to $450 for the septic tank.

• Drain field permits cost $250 to $650 for new installations and replacements.

• Abandonment permits cost $100 to $250 for each leach field abandonment.

• A soil test costs $250 to $700 to measure water absorption rate., while a deep hole percolation test by a qualified engineer costs up to $2,000.

Excavator installing new septic tank for residential home

Maintenance costs

Septic system maintenance costs $150 to $1,000 per year for an annual inspection and other maintenance services as needed, including pumping, filter cleaning, hydro jet cleaning, and adding tank additives.

Septic system maintenance costs Service Average cost Details Septic tank inspection cost $150 &#; $450 Inspections as part of routine maintenance determine the condition of the tank and pipes and when the tank needs pumping. Septic pumping costs $300 &#; $700 Prices depend on the tank size and condition, with larger and older tanks taking longer and costing more. Septic filter cleaning $100 &#; $400 This service improves the efficiency of the septic system and may be included with pumping service. Septic tank additives (Pro) $400 &#; $600 Additives are rarely needed in a well-maintained septic system but are added by a professional to an unhealthy tank to re-establish a healthy bacterial balance. Septic tank additives (DIY) $50 &#; $200 While readily available, these products are best used by professionals since the additives can corrode the tank, harm the bacterial balance, and contaminate groundwater.

Repair costs

Septic tank repairs cost $600 to $3,000 on average, depending on the extent of the damage. Septic systems undergo a lot of use, especially in large households. The buried tank and pipes should be inspected regularly and repaired promptly to avoid costly sewage overflows and other damage.

If the pipe leading from the home to the tank is damaged, septic line repair costs $50 to $250 per linear foot.

To reduce the need for septic system repairs, have the tank pumped regularly, avoid flushing anything but toilet paper, don't pour chemicals or grease down the drain, and don't park or drive on the drain field.

Mobile home septic tank costs

Mobile home septic tank systems cost $3,000 to $5,000 installed on average, which is similar to the cost for a smaller home. Choosing the location of the septic tank is more critical for a mobile home. Avoid placing the septic system where it could be driven over, which can compromise the tank integrity.

Septic tank system FAQs

How does a septic tank system work?

A traditional septic tank system works by allowing solids to settle to the bottom of a tank, where they are broken down by bacteria. The remaining liquid, called effluent, is then discharged into a drain field where it is further treated by the soil.

How a septic tank system works

How many years does a septic tank last?

A concrete septic tank can last for 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, the lifespan of a septic tank can vary depending on the quality of the tank, the soil conditions, and the usage. A septic tank used by one person will last longer than one used by a large family.

How can you tell when you need a new septic tank system?

Look for these signs your septic tank needs repair or replacement:

• Sewage puddled in the yard over the tank or drain field

• Sewage odors in the yard

• A sunken area in the yard over the tank

• Gurgling noises when flushing the toilet

• Sewage backups in the home

• Slow drains in the sinks and showers

How often should I pump my septic tank?

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Have your septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on the tank size, number of people in your household, and your water usage.

Getting estimates from septic tank installers

If you're considering a new septic system, follow these recommendations to find a septic tank installer near you:

• Get estimates from several licensed septic companies with 5+ years of experience.

• Select from septic companies that are members of the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA).

• Compare recent company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

• Request everything in writing, including a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty information before work commences.

• Confirm the company acquires the right permits and follows all local municipality laws and building codes.

Questions to ask septic system installers

Here are some questions to ask when trying to narrow down the list of septic tank installers near you:

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for septic work?

• Are you a current NOWRA member?

• How many years of septic system installation experience do you have?

• What is included in your estimate?

• What type and size of tank do you recommend for my household?

• How often should I have the tank pumped?

How we get this data

Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.

Are you interested in learning more about Frp Septic Tank? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!