All about septic tanks: types, features and application

By Emilia Krymskaya On Ноя 12, 2024

CrimeaPRESS reports:

What is a septic tank?

A septic tank is a key element of an autonomous sewage system designed for collecting and treating wastewater. They are necessary in areas where there is no possibility of connecting to a central sewer system. The main task of a septic tank is the mechanical and biological treatment of wastewater to make the water safe to return to the environment. This device provides comfortable living in private houses, cottages and country houses, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.

Main types of septic tanks

System complexity

Before choosing a septic tank, it is important to understand what types exist and their features — superseptic.ru. Septic tanks can be classified according to material, cleaning technology and level of complexity of the system:

single-chamber septic tanks. The simplest and most affordable option, which is suitable for small houses with minimal waste volumes. It does basic cleaning, which is sufficient for seasonal use.
two- and three-chamber septic tanks. These systems have multiple chambers for sequential passage of wastewater, which provides deeper cleaning. They are ideal for permanent use in residential homes.
biological septic tanks. They use filters and bacteria to break down organic matter, making them more environmentally friendly and efficient.
aerators. These are septic tanks with a forced air supply system, which speeds up and improves biological water treatment.

Each type has its own advantages and limitations. For example, single-chamber models are easy to install and inexpensive, but do not provide complete water purification. Two- and three-chamber septic tanks are more efficient, but require more space. Biological septic tanks require periodic maintenance to keep the bacteria working, and aerators depend on electrical power.

Septic tank volume

As for the volume of septic tanks, we take into account that the choice directly depends on the amount of wastewater that it must process. Main parameters affecting volume:

number of users. The more people live in the house, the larger the volume of the septic tank should be.
water consumption. Homes with a large number of plumbing fixtures require a larger capacity septic tank.
seasonality of use. For country houses that are used only in summer, smaller models are suitable.

The calculation of the volume of a septic tank in liters is based on the average volume of wastewater produced by the residents of the house. The standard calculation is based on three days of wastewater storage, allowing the system to handle peak loads.

Calculation of septic tank volume

Determination of average daily water consumption:

On average, one person uses about 150-200 liters of water per day for household needs (washing, laundry, cooking, etc.).

Three-day volume:

For a septic tank to work effectively, its volume must correspond to the three-day volume of wastewater.

Examples of calculations

For a family of 2 people:

daily volume: 2 × 200 liters = 400 liters.
three-day volume: 400 × 3 = 1200 liters.
recommended septic tank volume: not less than 1200 liters.

For a family of 4:

daily volume: 4 × 200 liters = 800 liters.
three-day volume: 800 × 3 = 2400 liters.
recommended septic tank volume: not less than 2400 liters.

For a family of 6 people:

daily volume: 6 × 200 liters = 1200 liters.
three-day volume: 1200 × 3 = 3600 liters.
recommended septic tank volume: not less than 3600 liters.

Selecting a septic tank by volume:

small septic tanks (up to 1500 liters). Suitable for small cottages and houses that are used seasonally and rarely.
medium septic tanks (1500-3000 liters). Optimal for small families (2-4 people) living permanently.
large septic tanks (3000-5000 liters or more). Recommended for large families (5-6 people or more) or for houses with high water consumption.

There are also additional factors to consider here:

volume reserve. It is advisable to choose a septic tank with a small reserve volume to take into account a possible increase in the number of users or increased water consumption.
soil type and groundwater level. If the soil is complex and does not absorb water well, you may need a larger septic tank or with an additional filtration system.

Materials for the manufacture of septic tanks

The materials from which septic tanks are made are also important, as they determine the service life and resistance of the device to external factors.

Plastic septic tanks:

advantages: lightweight, corrosion resistant, easy to install and transport.
disadvantages: can be deformed under soil pressure, especially with high groundwater levels.

Concrete septic tanks:

advantages: very strong, durable, resistant to mechanical damage and groundwater.
disadvantages: heavy, require special equipment for installation, more difficult to maintain.

Metal septic tanks:

Advantages: Durable and can be installed in different environments.
disadvantages: susceptible to corrosion, therefore they require anti-corrosion treatment and regular maintenance.

Fiberglass septic tanks:

advantages: lightweight, durable and resistant to chemical and physical influences. Durable.
disadvantages: may be more expensive than plastic counterparts.

Where are septic tanks used?

Septic tanks are widely used in various conditions. Main areas of use:

private houses. They provide an autonomous sewage system and the necessary level of cleaning for permanent residence.
dachas and seasonal houses. Simple single-chamber models are used that can be easily maintained and preserved for the winter.
cottage villages. Centralized solutions are often used, combining several houses into one system.
small businesses. In some cases, septic tanks are used for autonomous treatment of wastewater generated during production processes.

How to choose a suitable septic tank

When choosing a septic tank, it is necessary to take into account the installation conditions: soil type, groundwater level and expected load on the system. For temporary cottages, plastic or fiberglass models of smaller volume are better suited. For permanent residence with a high level of water use, large-capacity concrete septic tanks are optimal. Factors that play a role:

volume of wastewater. The more people live in the house, the more powerful the cleaning system should be.
area of the site. Space may limit the choice of septic tank type, especially multi-chamber systems.
soil type and groundwater level. In areas with high groundwater levels, it is worth choosing sealed septic tanks to prevent environmental pollution.
budget. Financial capabilities also play a role: more complex systems, such as aerators, require more investment.

In general, pWhen choosing the right system, it is important to consider their strengths and weaknesses. So, septic tanks:

single-chamber: simplicity and economy, but minimal cleaning.
two-chamber: a fairly high degree of purification, but requires more area for installation.
biological systems: efficient and environmentally friendly, but requires the addition of bacteria.
aerators: high quality cleaning, but dependent on electricity.

Experts agree: septic tanks are a reliable and effective solution for organizing autonomous sewage systems. The choice of the appropriate type depends on your conditions and needs: area of the site, volume of waste, soil type and other factors. Proper selection and installation of a septic tank will ensure comfort and safety for many years.

How safe and environmentally friendly are septic tanks to use?

Septic tank safety:

tightness of the structure. Modern septic tanks are designed to prevent wastewater from leaking into the ground. This prevents contamination of groundwater and reduces the risk of the spread of pathogenic bacteria.
correct service. Regular cleaning and preventive maintenance help prevent overfilling and possible leaks. Improper operation may result in the release of insufficiently treated wastewater.
manufacturing materials. The use of high-quality and environmentally friendly materials, such as plastic or fiberglass, increases operational safety and reduces the risk of toxic substances entering the environment.

Environmental friendliness of septic tanks:

level of wastewater treatment. Biological and aeration septic tanks provide a high degree of purification, removing up to 95-98% of organic contaminants. This allows purified water to be returned to the ground or used for technical needs (for example, for watering plants).
use of biological products. Some systems use special bacteria that naturally break down organic matter, speeding up the cleaning process and making it more environmentally friendly.
no chemical additives. Many modern septic tanks operate without the use of harsh chemicals, making them safe for soil and vegetation.

Potential environmental risks:

incorrect installation. If the septic tank is installed incorrectly or sanitary zone standards are not followed, this can lead to contamination of the soil and groundwater.
bad service. An overfilled or damaged septic tank can cause untreated sewage to escape.
high groundwater level. In areas with high groundwater levels, it is important to choose sealed models to prevent contaminated water from entering the soil.

Tips to improve safety and environmental friendliness:

regular maintenance. Periodically clean the septic tank and check its condition.
use safe cleaning products. Give preference to biodegradable detergents that do not harm the bacterial environment of the septic tank.
correct choice of system. If groundwater levels are high, choose models with additional leak protection.

Thus, modern septic tanks, installed in accordance with all the rules and maintained regularly, are a safe and environmentally friendly solution for autonomous sewerage.

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