Septic tank systems are simple onsite sewage treatment methods in homes without municipal sewer service. Wastewater flows from homes into a septic tank, where anaerobic digestion processes reduce solids.

Depending on how much waste runs through the system, homeowners may need to have the tank pumped every year or two. Different tanks are made of varying materials, each with its pros and cons.

Concrete

The septic tank collects sewage and treats it using bacterial decomposition. Wastewater enters a septic tank from the home via a main pipe and exits into a porous drain field. Concrete tanks are the most common type and can be constructed onsite or precast for easier septic tank installation Orlando, FL.

Concrete tanks are generally dome-shaped and come in single or double compartments. Two-compartment tanks are required in some areas and do a better job of settling solids. All tanks should have a tee or baffle at the inlet to slow the water flow and prevent disturbance of the settled sludge.

Concrete tanks can be more expensive than plastic but have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance. They are less sensitive to environmental changes, such as vibrations from vehicles driving over them, and are resistant to floatation (as long as the soil isn’t saturated). The only downside of concrete is its weight, which makes it more likely to shift in the ground than other types.

Steel

A septic tank is an underground chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic through which domestic wastewater (sewage) flows for basic sewage treatment. Its bacterial colonies break down the solids and organics, and the resulting liquid effluent drains into a septic drain field, which provides further treatment. The septic tank system is used when connecting to the public sewerage system is impossible.

Steel septic tanks are less common today due to their tendency to rust, but they can still be found in some older homes. Rust can weaken the tank’s structure, making it susceptible to damage and shifting in the ground.

Concrete septic tanks are more durable than steel and can last multiple decades. However, they are more expensive than fiberglass or plastic tanks. They must be installed in a location that works well with your soil type and climate. A leaking, corroded, or cracked concrete septic tank can be dangerous. It may contain tetanus-causing bacteria, and methane gas can also leak from it.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass septic tanks are becoming more popular because they aren’t prone to cracking like concrete or rusting like steel. They are also much lighter in weight than other tank materials, making it easier to install them.

However, their lightweight design makes them more likely to shift or float during major events like heavy rains. This can cause serious problems for your septic system and your home.

Another drawback of fiberglass septic tanks is that they don’t hold solid waste as well as concrete or steel. This means that they will need to be emptied more often. It’s best to consult a professional to ensure you get the right tank for your home. A variety of factors should be considered, including lot size, tank location, and groundwater levels.

Drip Distribution System

Septic systems help treat household wastewater onsite instead of relying on centralized town or city sewers. This type of system is commonly used in rural areas but can also be found in suburban neighborhoods where a central sewage line would require a lot of pipe and excavation to install.

The septic tank holds all the solid waste and grease that sinks to the bottom, while bacteria break down lighter solids and float to the top of the liquid wastewater. From there, the wastewater moves to a drain field or soil absorption area for further treatment.

Aerobic septic tanks are a type of septic tank that brings oxygen into the tank to stimulate natural bacteria activity. These are more expensive than other types of septic tanks, but they are effective at breaking down and treating sewage waste. They also require a smaller drain field, which can be a major savings for homeowners.