How to Install Septic Tank Risers

Owning and maintaining a septic tank can feel overwhelming at times, but installing risers can help reduce the time and money spent maintaining your tank throughout its lifespan. Below you’ll find some introductory information and links to a range of resources regarding septic tank risers, as well as our installation guide.

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What Are Risers
BenefitsComponentsResources

What Are RisersA septic tank riser is an extension between the septic tanks’ access port to the ground, providing easy access to the septic system. Risers are typically made of concrete or plastic and are usually 20″ to 24″ in diameter.

Benefits of Septic Tank RisersSeptic tank risers create surface level access to your septic tank system. The primary benefit of installing septic tank risers is a significant reduction in ongoing maintenance costs by improving the ease of access to the internal plumbing in your system. Septic tank risers allow for inspections, repairs, maintenance, and pumping to be completed without the need for digging.

Additional ResourcesFor more in depth educational resources, check out some of our other blogs such as Calculating the Right Size Septic Tank, Which Septic Tank May Be Best For Your Property, or The Benefits of Septic Tank Risers.

Common Riser Components

Base Plate Adapter RingGreat for projects with existing tanks that may be from a different or unknown manufacturer. The Base Plate Adapter Ring is the piece that connects your riser to your tank.

RiserA strong piece of pipe that extends the opening of your tank vertically to ground level. Made of high strength HDPE riser with UV additives in a variety of sizes. Including 20″ or 24″ diameter, in 2”, 6″, or 12″ height. Designed with gaskets to ensure air and water tightness, and screw holes to connect to the other components of your riser system.

Safety ScreenDesigned to prevent someone from falling into the tank using a sturdy webbing that is placed on the riser closest to the surface. Safety screens can be secured to the inner ring of your riser stack, and are designed to support up to 1,000 lbs.

Septic LidHigh strength HDPE lid with UV additives to resist fading. Lids come with an anti-slip surface and integrated handles.

How to Install Septic Tank Risers

If you’re installing a new septic tank, you should use the manufacturer’s recommended riser when possible. If you’re adding a riser to an existing concrete tank and don’t know who the manufacturer is, we recommend the PolyLok riser system.

The PolyLok system allows for universal connection to concrete septic tanks by using the base plate adapter. From there, you can choose either a 20″ or 24″ diameter, and select your height in 6″ or 12″ increments. We recommend a maximum of 36″ depth for your riser to ensure it remains structurally stable.

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1. Determine what type of risers you need.If you have a poly septic tank and know who the manufacturer is, we recommend purchasing the risers designed for your specific tank. Some poly tanks are designed with the adapter ring built in that allows for the PolyLok system. If you have a concrete septic tank, we recommend using the PolyLok riser system. This is our product of choice because they have universal adapters that can work for any tank.

2. Expose the Tank Opening.For a new tank, you can install your risers prior to backfilling. If you’re adding risers to a tank that’s already buried, you’ll need to excavate the area around the lid so that you have space to work.

3. Install the PolyLok Riser Adapter.The Base Plate Adapter goes directly on the top of your concrete tank opening, and is secured in place with self-tapping screws. We would also recommend using butyl tape between the tank and the adapter for an additional seal.

4. Install the Risers.PolyLok Risers are pressed in place using a gasket system, and secured to the base plate using screws. Additional risers can then be added using the exact same process. We recommend a maximum of a 36” riser depth, which would be three 12” risers stacked.

5. Install the Lid.The PolyLok lid is secured to the risers using the same gasket and screw method as the risers. Once installed, the only steps to access the inner workings of your tank are to unscrew the eight lid screws and lift off the lid. No more digging!

6. Backfill.Lastly, backfill around the risers using the native soil. Ideally, avoid having large stones directly against the risers to reduce the risk of damage.

We hope that this detailed breakdown of septic tank risers has helped to increase your confidence when dealing with your septic tank installation and maintenance. Risers are a great investment for new installations, or improving your existing tank. Risers can be attached to both all concrete tanks, and some poly tanks, offering a customized solution for your specific needs.

You can find more about our septic tank risers online or in store. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for advice, or a septic tank installer looking for a supplier, we’re here to help. If you have questions, our team is always available via phone at (905) 386-1744 or email at sales@ontarioagra.ca to help with your research and make customized recommendations.