Repairing a broken septic pipe doesn't have to be a big and expensive fix from a septic company. While doing some excavation work in our yard we accidentally snagged one of the pipes in our drain field. Luckily this is the cleaner end of the septic system which meant it was mostly muddy work. :)
Our pipe actually came apart at the coupler where two pipes met. We purchased a compression coupling for the repair. Here are the steps to follow for a successful repair:
- Turn off your septic pump.
- Cut off the damaged ends of the pipe.
- Use a fine grit sandpaper (220 grit works well) to gently smooth out rough edges and remove any ridges of glue if you are near where a coupler was attached.
- Use a clean sponge or cloth and water to thoroughly clean the pipes, removing any mud or debris.
- Remove the rings and gaskets from both ends of the compression coupler.
- Slide a ring and gasket onto each piece of pipe.
- Then slide the coupler onto the pipes and center it over the gap between them. NOTE: We found it helpful to make a mark in the dirt at the center of the gap, to help center the coupler.
- Slide the gaskets down the pipes and into the opening of the coupler. Then slide the rings down and tighten them (one at a time). Hand tighten them to create a good seal.
- Turn the septic pump back and on check to make sure there isn't a leak in the coupler. Once you are sure the repair was successful you can rebury the pipe.
