Wastewater systems, wells

Wastewater System Installation

  • The wastewater system will be installed by the wastewater company, possibly overseen by your site assessor to ensure compliance with planning conditions outlined in your approval grant.
  • A digger will likely be needed to dig trenches for connecting pipes from the house to the septic tank and for excavating the area for the septic tank and treatment systems, including the percolation area.
  • Confirm in advance who will arrange and operate the digger, typically a groundwork contractor is involved.
  • It’s also a good time to dig trenches for other services, like water connections and broadband, to avoid multiple visits.

Well Construction and Considerations

  • If building a well, there are key investments and administrative steps required, such as a feasibility study, applying for a licence, and test drilling.
  • The well must be properly constructed, tested, and the pump installed. Since the sector is largely unregulated in ROI, due diligence is essential to ensure the well is built to best practice standards.
  • The Environmental Protection Agency's Advice Note 14 in ROI refers to guidelines from the Institute of Geologists of Ireland, emphasizing the importance of building wells in contamination-free areas, e.g., away from slurry or septic tanks.
  • Wells should be cased and grouted to an adequate depth to prevent surface and groundwater from entering, and all equipment should meet minimum standards.

Water Quality and Maintenance

  • Conduct thorough research if you plan to install a well, and establish a maintenance schedule to ensure high water quality at all times.
  • Be aware that groundwater pollution may already exist, making careful water testing essential to avoid contamination.

Plumbing and Water Systems

  • Your plumber will connect the water systems to your home; familiarize yourself with how the system operates.
  • Consider adding lever valves (on/off levers) for localized control of water, and check the location of the stopcock (main water shut-off point).
  • At this stage, you could consider adding recycled water sources, such as using greywater for flushing toilets and other water reuse methods.

Pump and Water Softener Installation

  • If mains water pressure is low, installing a pump may help improve water pressure in your home.
  • Consider installing a water softener to protect appliances like washing machines from limescale buildup, which can be problematic in areas with hard water.
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Information on building your own home is for general purposes only and may not be accurate or up-to-date. Always consult with licensed professionals before making any decisions. We are not responsible for any errors or outcomes based on this content.

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