With the recent wave of septic system aeration motor thefts the Health District would like to let everyone know that there are ways to secure your motor and deter thieves.
The cost of replacing an aeration motor on a septic system can be upwards of $700 to $900 and since the systems are visible from the outside of the home they may pose as an easy mark for thieves looking to resell the unit or cash it in as scrap.
There is no surefire way to prevent someone from stealing the motor, however, most thieves are easily detered and will likely move on to an easier target if the motor is secured. Here are a few suggestions for securing your septic aeration motor:
- Set stakes at one third intervals around the riser or drill the riser itself to install eyelets. Set cork-screw type stakes deep enough so that they are not easily removed; providing there is enough soil cover to allow for their use. Once the stakes or eyelets are installed attach three short chains and pull them to the center of the lid and lock them with a weather resistant lock.
- Chain the motor to the bottom of the compartment using eyelets installed in the top of the tank. Secure with a weather resistan lock.
These are just suggestions. If you feel you have an idea that will work better for you, by all means please use it. The Health District asks that if your motor is secured against theft please work with us to allow for the routine Basic System Assessment. When you receive your Septic Gazette contact the Health District and we’ll make arraignments to either meet you at your home or have you provide access for the day we will be in your area.
For more information please contact us.
Updated: 12/14/2010