Septic Solutions Customer Reviews

Septic Tank Risers Buyer's Guide

Septic tank risers are essential components that make accessing your septic tank for maintenance, inspections, or pumping easier and more convenient. This buyer’s guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing the right septic tank riser for your system, ensuring durability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.

What is a Septic Tank Riser?

A septic tank riser is a pipe-like extension that brings the access point of your underground septic tank to or near ground level. This eliminates the need for digging every time you need to access the tank, saving time and effort during routine maintenance or emergency repairs.

Septic Tank with Risers

Why Use a Septic Tank Riser?

  • Ease of Access: Simplifies maintenance, inspections, and pumping.

  • Cost Savings: Reduces labor costs associated with digging up the tank.

  • Aesthetic Integration: Keeps your yard looking tidy with discreet, flush-to-ground covers.

  • Safety: Prevents accidental falls into open septic tanks and ensures secure lids.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Septic Tank Riser

1. Material

Septic tank risers are typically made from durable materials designed to withstand environmental conditions. Common options include:

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and affordable. Ideal for most residential applications but may not be as durable in extreme conditions.

  • Polyethylene: Strong, flexible, and resistant to cracking. Suitable for colder climates where ground movement is a concern.

  • Concrete: Extremely durable and heavy, often used in commercial settings or high-traffic areas. However, it’s harder to install due to its weight.

  • Fiberglass: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but typically more expensive.

Consideration: Choose a material based on your climate, soil conditions, and budget. For example, polyethylene is better for freeze-thaw cycles, while concrete suits heavy-duty applications.

2. Size and Height

Risers come in various diameters and heights to match your septic tank’s access port and depth:

  • Diameter: Common sizes range from 12 to 24 inches. Measure your tank’s access port to ensure a proper fit.

  • Height: Risers are available in heights from as little as 2 inches to 5 feet. Select a height that brings the access point to ground level or slightly above (typically 1–2 inches above ground for easy access).

Consideration: Check the depth of your septic tank lid from the surface. Stackable risers like the Polylok system can be used for deeper tanks, allowing you to customize the height.

3. Lid Type

The riser lid is critical for safety and accessibility:

  • Screw-On Lids: Secure and easy to open with a tool or by hand. Ideal for preventing unauthorized access.

  • Snap-On Lids: Quick to install and remove but may not be as secure.

  • Heavy-Duty Lids: Designed for high-traffic areas or where vehicles may pass over (e.g., concrete or reinforced plastic lids).

Consideration: Choose a lid that is child-proof and secure to prevent accidents. Look for UV-resistant lids to avoid fading or cracking from sun exposure.

4. Installation Compatibility

Ensure the riser is compatible with your existing septic tank:

  • Tank Type: Confirm whether your tank is concrete, fiberglass, or plastic, as some risers are designed specifically for certain tank materials.

  • Sealing Mechanism: Look for risers with gaskets or adhesive seals to prevent leaks and odors.

  • Stackable Design: For deeper tanks, opt for modular risers that can be stacked or extended.

Consideration: Check if the riser kit includes mounting hardware, such as screws or adhesive, for a secure fit.

Additional Tips

  • Check Local Regulations: Some areas have specific codes for septic tank risers, such as lid security or material requirements. Contact your local health department or septic professional.

  • Maintenance: Ensure the riser is compatible with regular septic tank pumping schedules (every 3–5 years for most households).

  • Aesthetics: Choose a riser with a low-profile lid that blends into your lawn or landscaping.

Polylok Complete Riser Kits from Septic Solutions

At Septic Solutions, we have made it easy to purchase a septic tank riser with our complete riser kits! The versatile Polylok Adapter that is included in our kits will cover up to a 27'' round opening or 25'' x 25'' square opening, making it the choice for most standard size access ports. We offer the kits in either 20'' or 24'' diameter and variable heights from 2'' up to 26'' tall. These complete riser kits also include the mounting hardware and sealant require for installation. Purchase everything you need in one click!

Conclusion

Choosing the right septic tank riser involves balancing material, size, durability, and cost with your specific septic system needs. By selecting a high-quality riser that fits your tank and local conditions, you can simplify maintenance and extend the life of your septic system. Always consult with a professional if you’re unsure about compatibility or installation requirements.