A typical perc test consists of two or more holes dug about 30 to 40 feet apart in the proposed drain field area (see illustration). The holes are typically 6 to 12 inches in diameter and 2 to 3 feet deep, the typical depth of the absorption trenches in a leach field.
Back-ups occurring in an ejector pump tank or sump pump area are usually caused by a failure of the pump to discharge wastewater or water out of the sump basin or pit. There is no power to the pump: Check the circuit breaker for the pump-the alarm.
The distribution box of the septic tank system, is used to evenly distribute the wastewater from the septic system to the dispersal field. Over time, the distribution box can erode, and will need to be replaced. This project is not difficult, but removing and replacing a distribution box is messy and grueling work.
This may result in sewage backup up in the basement of the house or having toilets backed up and slow to drain. If this is happening then the grinder pump needs to be replaced. The riser pump moves the waste from the septic tank into the drain field. If waste is not being carried to the drain field, the riser pump is broken.
