Septic Holding Tank Overview
What Is a Septic Tank?
A septic holding tank is a type of septic system that can be used to dispose of waste. This waste includes wastewater from toilets, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures. Typically, a septic tank is used for sewage disposal in residential properties. When installing a septic system, there are a number of different considerations to keep in mind. These include pumping requirements, construction standards, typical uses, and disposal of waste.
Typical Uses
Septic holding tanks are buried, water-tight containers designed to hold household waste. These containers are usually made of concrete or polyethylene.
They are constructed to hold wastewater until it is pumped out. However, these systems are expensive to operate. This is why they are often used only in places where a permanent septic system is not practical.
They are also used in areas where septic drain fields are not available. The solids from the wastewater settle to the bottom of the tank, where the anaerobic bacteria can breakdown the organic waste. As these bacteria break down the organic matter, they release the gases. Some of these gases can be unpleasant and cause discomfort to residents.
Choosing the right septic tank material can impact the longevity of the tank. Materials such as polyethylene is easy to install and rust-resistant. However, they are also lighter than concrete, which makes them prone to damage during installation.
Construction Standards
Septic holding tanks are designed to store sewage and discharge it into the soil. In most jurisdictions, however, septic holding tanks are not permitted for new homes but may be grandfathered into existing properties.
Before installing a septic tank system, you need to consider the requirements of the applicable construction standards. The following guidelines outline the minimum design and construction requirements for septic holding tanks.
Septic tanks must be watertight and constructed of corrosion-resistant materials. Each compartment of a tank shall be equipped with a manhole. This manhole must be at least 20 inches square and 24 inches wide. Extension collars must be lockable and cover the manhole at least 12 inches below grade.
Inlet and outlet baffle must be made of plastic or reinforced concrete and extend six inches above the flow line. These baffles are necessary to prevent the passage of floating sludge.
Tanks must be insulated if the area is cold. They also must be placed at a minimum of ten feet from swimming pools, landscapes, or pressure water supply lines.
Pumping Requirements
If you are planning on purchasing a home that has a septic holding tank, you should be aware of its pumping requirements. Keeping your tank properly maintained can improve your septic system’s efficiency and help protect the environment.
The pumping requirements for septic holding tanks depend on the size and capacity of the tank. A smaller tank will require more frequent pumping. Generally, the cost of pumping a tank ranges from ten cents to thirty cents per gallon. Depending on your location, the rate may also include labor.
It’s best to have the septic holding tank pumped out by a professional. Failure to do so can cause overflows and may ruin the sanitary conditions in your home. Some jurisdictions even require proof of regular pump-outs.
The alarm system in your holding tank can alert you when it’s time to pump it. There are many types of alarms available and the frequency you will need depends on the size of the tank.
Disposal of Waste
Septic tanks are a great way to dispose of waste in a natural and environmentally-friendly manner. They work by using the natural properties of the soil to filter wastewater. During the process, heavy particles and bacteria separate. However, septic tank waste cannot be disposed of in a landfill. It should be treated by a professional waste disposal company.
A septic tank is a water-tight, underground container for removing sewage. Wastewater from industrial and commercial operations, as well as domestic use, are collected and transported to a treatment facility. In most states, septic effluent must not be discharged into surface waters.
There are many different types of septic systems, and the choice depends on the nature of the property. The slope of the property and the location of environmental features also play an important role.
When selecting a septic system, you will need to consider the projected peak wastewater volume. You should also factor in how close your home is to roads and environmental features.
