Tank septic

Types of septic tanks

Septic tanks are prefabricated underground tanks designed to hold sewage. They are built in various materials, including concrete, plastic, and fiberglass, and come in different shapes, sizes, and structures.

• Traditional septic tank:

  Every septic tank starts off with the same traditional design: an underground tank connected to the primary household drainage system. This tank both stores and treats waste. Inside the traditional septic tank, bacteria break down organic matter, leaving behind a sludge layer at the bottom and a scum layer on the surface. Treated effluent then flows out of the tank through a drain field for further natural filtration and purification.

• Dosing chamber septic tank:

  Dosing chamber septic tanks are an alternative to traditional systems. They use pumps instead of gravity to distribute treated waste through drain fields. Dosing chambers collect septic tank effluent. Pumps then send it out in set doses. This gives effluent consistent, effective dispersal. Industries, large homes, and places where gravity drainage isn't feasible often use dosing chamber tanks.

• Cesspool:

  A cesspool is like a traditional septic tank but much simpler. It has no treatment system inside. Wastewater flows directly into an underground hole or pit called a cesspool, where it seeps into the surrounding soil. Cesspools used to be common but are now rarely allowed due to environmental concerns. Because they provide no real waste treatment, they pose greater pollution threats than septic tanks. Groundwater and public health could be impacted by this lack of filtration.

• Grease trap:

  Grease traps are specialized septic tanks often found in commercial kitchens and restaurants. While traditional septic systems separate harmful organic material from water and instructors, grease traps focus solely on capturing fats, oils, and grease (FOG). If not collected and treated properly, FOG can cause significant clogs in the plumbing system and municipal sewer lines. By installing grease traps, businesses can prevent the costly consequences of FOG buildup.

Specification and Maintenance

Septic tanks may differ depending on the materials used, size, and specifications.

• Materials

  Septic tanks are typically made of concrete, plastic, or fiberglass. Concrete tanks are more conventional and durable, making them ideal for accommodating large capacities. On the one hand, plastic and fiberglass tanks are lighter and easier to install. Furthermore, both materials are resistant to rust and leakage.

• Sizes

  Septic tanks come in different sizes to meet distinct needs. The size usually gets determined by the typical household size and wastewater production. For residential use, 1,000 to 1,500-gallon tanks are generally recommended. Small 300 to 500-gallon tanks are designed for cabins and cottages. On the other hand, larger commercial tanks can hold up to 5,000 gallons or more.

• Grease traps

  A grease trap for septic tanks is a valuable device intended to intercept grease, oil, and fat before they enter the septic system. When fat and grease from food waste cool in the trap, they solidify and are stored in the tank. Storing these substances in a separate tank avoids clogging and prolongs the system's lifespan. Grease traps are particularly vital for commercial kitchens and restaurants where grease production is significant.

Proper maintenance of septic tanks is crucial to ensure their long-lasting functionality, avoid costly repairs, and protect the environment.

• Regular Pumping

  The solids that accumulate at the bottom of the tank will be removed through this process.

• Inspection of Inlet and Outlet Pipes

  Make sure to check for leaks, cracks, or blockages in the pipes during routine maintenance.

• Grease Trap Servicing

  If a septic system has a grease trap, it is vital to schedule regular servicing for it, too.

• Soil Absorption System Care

  It is paramount to avoid driving over or laying structures above the soil absorption system.

Uses of septic tanks

Septic tanks are considered beneficial household items where the sewage pipeline is not connected to a centralized sewage system. Below are some ways they provide services:

• Sewage breakdown: The primary purpose of septic tanks is to safely and efficiently manage household sewage. Septic tanks provide a decentralized method of sewage management for homes and properties.
• Separation of liquids and solids: Septic tanks play a crucial role in separating liquids from solids in household sewage. The tank is designed with compartments. The effluent (liquid portion) that seeps into the drainage field is treated to a considerable degree of purity.
• Bacterial breakdown: Beneficial bacteria inhabit septic tanks and break down organic matter in sewage, including food particles, human waste, and toilet paper. These bacteria digest the organic material, transforming it into liquids and gases. This natural decomposition process reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact.
• Odor Control: Septic tanks are equipped with vents or pipes that extend above ground level to allow gases to escape into the atmosphere. This prevents the build-up of harmful gases within the system and reduces the risk of explosions. Proper ventilation minimizes odors and helps maintain good air quality around the tank.
• Property preservation: Well-maintained septic tanks prevent property damage by avoiding overflow and contamination of land. They protect groundwater from sewage leaks, safeguarding the value and safety of residential areas.

How to Choose Septic Tank

While selecting septic tanks for sale, buyers should research customer preferences and the reasons customers choose specific tank types.

• Property Size

In most cases, property size determines whether a customer can compactly install an onsite sewage facility. Customers with big properties prefer installing large capacity tanks that will not need frequent emptying. However, those with small properties or limited space will look for compact tanks that will not disrupt their limited space.

• Local Regulations

Local regulations also affect the types of septic tanks buyers should opt for. If they are in an area with strict regulations on how septic tanks should be, buyers should find tanks with specific features that comply with such regulations. For instance, buyers in areas with regulations on effluent quality should look for septic tanks with good filtration systems.

• Environmentally Conscious

Environmental concerns will also affect the type of septic tank systems buyers will purchase. If buyers are targeting customers who are concerned about environmental issues, they should get septic tanks with eco-friendly features, such as wastewater treatment capabilities or proper filtration systems.

Tank septic FAQ

Q1. How does a septic tank work?

A1. A typical septic tank will receive and store sewage from multiple sources. It will then separate the components based on density– solids, liquid, and scum. While the liquid part undergoes anaerobic decomposition by bacteria, the solids will settle at the bottom and decompose slowly. When the tank is full, the effluent will be drained for further treatment.

Q2. What are the signs of septic tank failure?

A2. If there are frequent blockages and overflowing situations, it may indicate a failing septic tank. Bad odors, gurgling sounds from drains, etc., can also be possible signs of tank failure. In some cases, people notice that the sewage is backing up into the bathroom and other drains.

Q3. What is the lifespan of a septic tank?

A3. If tanks are emptied regularly and septic bacteria are added, they can last up to 25-30 years.

Q4. How often should a septic tank be emptied?

A4. Usually, tanks should be emptied every 3 to 5 years. But the actual frequency of emptying depends on the tank size, the number of people using the system, and the septic arrangement at the property.