What Are Septic Tank Risers
A septic tank riser is an extension between the septic tank's 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.
Septic tank risers are beneficial because they:
- Reduce maintenance costs: Risers eliminate the need to dig up the yard for maintenance and pumping, which can save time and money.
- Allow access in winter: Risers provide access to the septic system even when the ground is frozen.
- Make the manhole cover visible: Risers make the manhole cover visible at all times, which can help locate it.
Benefits of Septic Tank Risers
Septic 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.
Which Riser is Best For My Tank
If you're installing a new septic tank, you should use the manufacturers riser when possible. If you're adding a riser to an existing concrete septic 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.
Riser Components
There are a few key pieces required to build your septic tank risers, with each project requiring a customized combination of parts. Below you’ll find the main components required for most projects.
Base Plate Adapter: This is the first piece when adding PolyLok Risers onto concrete septic tanks or cisterns. The 28" square base is attached to the flat top of your tank using self-tapping screws. The base plate features a lock-in spot for both the 24" and 20" diameter PolyLok Risers. Allowing you to customize your opening however you see fit.
PolyLok Riser: Risers connect with your base-plate adapter using the lock-in system and is secured with screws. Connections can be sealed with butyl tape or silicone. Risers are available in 24" and 20" diameter, with heights ranging from 2" through 12". Risers can be stacked to create the height needed for your tank to reach the surface. We recommend a maximum riser height of 36" to maintain strength.
Safety Screen: Safety screens can be secured to the inner ring of your riser stack, and are designed to support up to 1,000 lbs. They also feature a 4 ½” opening to allow for the vacuum hose during clean up. Only available in 20" diameter.
Septic Lid: High strength HDPE lid with UV additives to resist fading. Lids come with an anti-slip surface and integrated handles. Available in 24" and 20".
Additional Septic Tank Resources
Explore our educational septic tank blogs below to help you make the best purchase decision for your needs.
Calculating the Right Size Septic Tank
Still searching for the correct cistern or septic tank? View the rest of our tank options here. You can also view Poly Septic frequently asked questions, or check out our Septic Tank Riser Installation Guide.
*Always check with your municipal requirements prior to installation.
