Septic tanks are an essential part of any home’s wastewater treatment system. They are designed to hold sewage and water from toilets, showers, sinks, and other fixtures. The septic tank allows the solids to settle to the bottom while the liquids rise to the top. This separation process keeps the solids from clogging the leach field.
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What is a septic tank, and what does it do?
A concrete septic tank is a highly effective, long-lasting way to treat household wastewater. The tank is usually buried underground and consists of two chambers: the primary and secondary chambers.
Wastewater from home flows into the primary chamber, where solids settle to the bottom and grease floats to the top. The clear water in the middle then flows into the secondary chamber, where it is further treated before being released into the leach field.
Concrete septic tanks are durable and can last for decades, making them a wise investment for any homeowner.
They work by using the natural process of decomposition to break down the waste.
This happens when bacteria in the septic tank eat the sewage, which is broken down into water and carbon dioxide.
The remaining solids are called sludge, periodically removed from the tank by a professional.
The benefits of concrete septic tanks
The following are some of the benefits of concrete septic tanks over other types of septic tanks:
Durable:
Concrete septic tanks are very durable and can last for decades. This makes them a wise investment for any homeowner. If properly maintained, they will provide many years of trouble-free service.
Low maintenance:
Concrete septic tanks require very little maintenance. The only thing you need to do is have the tank pumped out every few years to remove the accumulated sludge.
Environmentally friendly:
Another benefit of concrete septic tanks is that they are environmentally friendly.
They use the natural decomposition process to break down the waste, which means no harmful chemicals or pollutants are being released into the environment.
In addition, concrete septic tanks can be used to irrigate gardens or trees, which is a great way to recycle the water.
Concrete septic tanks are also more aesthetically pleasing than other ones, as they can camouflage them with landscaping.
Affordable:
Although concrete septic tanks are more expensive than plastic or fiberglass tanks, they are still very affordable.
When comparing the price to the long-term benefits, concrete septic tanks are better.
The different types of concrete septic tanks
There are four main types of concrete septic tanks:
1. Precast concrete septic tanks
This septic tank is made from the concrete cast in a mold, then transported to the job site and installed.
Precast concrete septic tanks are the most popular type of tank, as they are very strong and durable.
2. Cast-in-place concrete septic tanks
Another type of concrete septic tank is the cast-in-place tank. This type of tank is made from concrete poured into a hole that has been dug at the job site.
The concrete must be carefully mixed and poured to set correctly.
Cast-in-place tanks are more expensive than precast tanks, but they can be made to fit any size and shape.
3. Fiberglass-reinforced concrete septic tanks
This type is another variation of the cast-in-place tank. It is made from concrete reinforced with fiberglass, making it even stronger and more durable.
4. Polymer-coated concrete septic tanks
Finally, there is the polymer-coated concrete septic tank, which is made from concrete that is coated with a special polymer.
This type of tank is very strong and resistant to corrosion. It is also more expensive than the other types of tanks.
What to consider when choosing a cost-effective septic tank
There are several factors to consider if a septic tank system is supposed to cater to one’s needs economically and efficiently. All these factors work in conjunction with one another to bring up the most suitable product for the final user, and all of them have advantages and shortcomings. The elements are as follows;
Material
The material used in building a septic tank is one of the most critical things to consider when choosing a suitable septic tank. The higher the quality, the more expensive, and this is the best due to its more prolonged survival
Labor
Septic tank installation may charge a handsome amount of money which may influence the durability of the septic system. Still, it is better to weigh and see if the laborers’ service is worth the given quotation.
Drainage
The drainage system is vital for below-ground tanks. Proper drainage may also be costly; a sound drainage system will necessitate filtration of some effluent out into the surrounding ground. As a result, your tank will need to be filled less frequently and thus become more economical.
Before installing septic, it is necessary to check if the ground is adequate for a soak away and can absorb extra water. the cost is very high, but this may save you later struggles.
Maintenance cost
You also need to maintain your septic tank annually or for the most favorable duration with the help of an authorized waste carrier; this is an additional cost that comes up timely.
Size
The size of the tank is also a crucial necessity that comes with prices as you choose them to be. You need to ensure that the size you have chosen is equal to the task of your household.
Geographical convenience
Above-ground placed septic tanks are usually less expensive and viable for small systems; low profile boxes will save you money if more waste storage is required.
In some instances, you will have no option but to construct an underground tank that is not cheap due to their installation requirements, which involves digging a large enough hole to house the tank and laying the footings.
It is advisable to check with local authorities before deciding what to go with.
Why is concrete considered the cheaper solution for homes?
1. Longer lifespan
Concrete septic tanks have a long-life span; this is more efficient because they do not require replacement. This means it saves on the cost of waste disposal.
2. Strong erected tanks
This is advantageous because the septic tanks are less prone to collapsing than plastic ones; septic tanks are held tightly by the concrete, thus lowering the risk of collapsing when pumping.
3. Compliance with building regulations
Concrete tanks conform to all building protocols in any locality; obtaining a permit may not be a hard hustle since it is environmentally friendly, making it easier to install one.
Compared to plastic tanks, plastics are prohibited from being used in some parts of the country, making them disadvantageous. Therefore, it gives septic tanks an upper hand and is more suitable for any setup across different localities.
4. Water tightness under pressure
Septic tanks can withhold water pressure compared to plastic tanks, which may let water out. Concrete is watertight, decreasing the possibility of leakages in the entire tank’s life.
5. Low-risk installation process
The process of installing a concrete septic tank is more secure; in cases where the tank may be subjected to some pressure. It cannot easily inflict damage to the tank, and plastic tanks are more prone to damage, resulting in additional costs of replacing them.
6. Higher Effluent Capacity
The tank is pumped if it fills up too quickly. Concrete septic tanks are more likely to require pumping because they are more expensive.
Conclusion
Concrete tanks are heavy, and floating is made accessible due to the heaviness; the weight above the concrete tanks does not influence them.
Concrete septic tanks are more durable than plastic ones due to the cement reinforcement, making them harder to damage.
Concrete septic tanks require minimal maintenance compared to any other method of substantial storage of waste products, and it is the most cost-effective.
Concrete septic tanks are the most suitable for any locality and environment due to less environmental harm; it is recommendable for anybody who wants to incur fewer installation costs.
