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Septic system getting replaced: is one porta potty enough for a family of four for ten days, and where does it go with an excavator in the yard?

Dave P.asked 1 viewHome Renovations & Long-termStandard unitService frequencyPlacementHandwash stationTruck accessPrivate property

Our septic tank failed inspection when we refinanced, so the whole system is getting replaced later this month. The installer says plan on no indoor toilets for about ten days, longer if it rains, since the new drain field goes in the back yard and the tank goes by the side of the house.

It's me, my wife, and two kids, 6 and 11. Everybody is home evenings and all weekend.

Stuff I can't figure out:

  1. Is one standard unit enough for four people for ten days, or should I ask for a service visit in the middle?
  2. The excavator and dump truck will be using the driveway and side yard. Where do people usually put the unit so it's out of the way but the service truck can still reach it?
  3. The installer also said go easy on all the drains, not just toilets. Is a handwash station worth adding so we aren't running the kitchen sink all day?

Anyone been through this?

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Sam O.Portland, OR

One standard portable toilet is enough for a family of four for ten days, but you should schedule a service visit halfway through. A standard unit holds 50 to 70 gallons and weekly service is the norm. With four people using it full-time for ten days, the tank will likely fill up before the end. Ask the rental company to add a mid-term service visit to pump the holding tank and restock supplies.

Place the unit on level ground at the edge of your property, like the front yard near the street or a clear spot on the lawn. The service truck needs to park within 25 feet with a straight hose pull. Coordinate with the excavator crew to keep that area clear on service day. If the unit is blocked, it counts as a missed service and you may be billed for the trip.

A handwash station is worth adding. It reduces strain on your kitchen drains, which the installer warned against using heavily. The station has a foot pump and its own fresh water tank, so it operates independently. This keeps everyone from running the sink constantly.

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