Septic tanks are a necessary and key component for septic systems. A septic tank is a watertight container, buried in the ground near the house, that holds all of the wastewater from toilets and other sources within a septic system. The septic tank has two main jobs: to store sewage until it can be pumped out of the septic system, and to isolate solid waste from the liquid sewage so that is does not clog up pipes or seep into groundwater. There are a few things you should consider when shopping for a septic tank; this blog will discuss 12 points that may help you find the best septic tank.
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1. Is a Septic tank needed?
Our major cities and townships include wastewater services that are paid for in our rates. Septic tanks are installed on properties where there are no waste water services available on the property or by the municipality. This is mostly in rural areas, or properties just outside major regional centres where council have not yet expanded their infrastructure and services. A septic tank is required to handle all waste produced on a property where there are no council provided services.
2. Types of Septic Tanks
Septic tanks are available in a variety of sizes and capacities, and there are two different types of septic tanks. The first type is a passive septic tank. This system will only hold and separate solid waste and allow liquid sewage to run out into subsurface irrigation or run out into a paddock. The solid waste is pumped out by a truck when it is full. The second system is an Aerated Wastewater Treatment Plant, also known as an AWTS system or a treatment plant. These systems are far more complex, that have aerating pads, pumps, chlorine or dosing tablets and bacteria. They generally don’t require to be emptied by trucks for years as the bacteria breaks down the waste, and the waste water pumped out is much cleaner and better quality than normal passive septic tanks.
3. Septic Tank Selection
Your local council will determine which system needs to be installed on your property. As a country, Australia is moving toward AWTS systems, but your local municipality has the final say over your septic tank requirement. If your council have elected that you require a passive septic tank on your property, you can elect to install an AWTS system with your councils approval. This is however not the same in reverse. In our experience, it has not been possible to overturn a council where they have requested an AWTS system to be replaced by a passive septic tank.
4. Cost Differences
AWTS systems are considered by all in the industry to be industry best solutions. Like anything good, they are more costly and do require mandatory maintenance programs set out by the Department of Health. This is to ensure your health and also the health of the system and ensuring the bacteria in the tank is working effectively and that either the chlorine or dosing tablets are topped up. The technicians will also check your aeration pads and pump systems and timers to ensure it is working as intended. Passive septic tanks are much simpler. They are a set and forget system. For most installations, there is little to no maintenance required and other than getting a truck to empty it every few years, require very little else. The tanks are considerably cheaper to buy and install with less moving parts, and less to go wrong.
5. Tank Capacity
Most people require a litre septic tank. The volume of the septic tank is again determined for the most part by councils and across Australia we have seen that the most common size is our Polymaster litre septic tank. A Litre septic tank is suitable for a 1-5 person domestic home. a litre septic tank is suitable for a 6-10 person home. We also do commercial septic tanks that are far more specialized and the septic tank sizes can go up to 25,000 Litres.
6. Plastic vs Concrete
Today plastic septic tanks dominate the market. They are far cheaper to manufacture, last longer and much easier to install. The delivery costs are also much cheaper and they can travel long distances fairly economically compared to concrete tanks. On average concrete tanks only lasted around 10 years, whereas plastic septic tanks will last twenty to thirty years. Unlike concrete septic tanks, plastic tanks are not porous and so you will not get seepage of waste water into your ground water or around your garden. For all these reasons, and more plastic septic tanks have become the industry standard today.
7. Septic Tank Installation
Septic tanks cannot be installed by private individuals and must be installed by licensed plumbers. Upon installation, the septic tanks are registered by your plumber with your local council or municipality who sign off on the installation. Passive septic tank installations are fairly straight forward that have two pipes. One for the waste water to enter into, and one for the water sewage to exit out of. They are very easy to install and most civil plumbers will be very experienced in their installation. AWTS systems are more specific and we highly recommend specialized plumbers and civil earth workers to install them. Having an in depth knowledge of the AWTS systems and their installation requirements will be the difference between a good installation and a bad installation.
8. Emptying a Septic Tank
At some point your septic tank will need to be emptied. This falls on the homeowner’s responsibility. On average, we have seen a normal domestic home with a LT septic tank needs to be emptied every three to five years. Of course a number of factors determines this including:
a) number of people in the household
b) capacity of the septic tank
c) type of septic system installed
If your tank has not filled up after six plus years, we still recommend getting your system pumped out. Over long periods. you will develop septage, (the solids that settle in the bottom of the tank) which begin to contain harmful bacteria or chemicals.
Other signs that you need to empty your septic tank include:
9. Where does kitchen water and shower water go?
On a property with a septic tank, the entire home is connected to your septic tank. This includes the toilets, showers, bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, laundry and any other service connected in the home. You also need to connect outdoor swimming pools and spas, as they have chemicals in them through to your septic tank.
The only part of the house that is generally not connected is the downpipes from your roof. These are normally sent to your legal point of discharge (LPD) or your property or otherwise towards a dam or river on your rural block. We recommend speaking to your council or plumber for confirmation.
10. Tank Inspection and Service
Your septic tank needs to be inspected and serviced by a professional. Dealing with human waste is hazardous to your health and requires professional licensed plumbers. You should never enter a septic tank. It is a confined space and an extreme health risk not only to you but to anyone that attempts to rescue you should the toxins and chemical make you pass out.
11. Difference between Polymaster & Graf Septic Tanks
ASC Water Tanks sell two brands of septic tanks. They are Polymaster Septic tanks and Graf Wastewater Septic tanks. Both systems are extremely good and both are seen to be industry leaders in the passive septic tank market. Polymaster are a Victorian based manufacturer who ship only into Victoria, southern New South Wales, the ACT and into certain parts of South Australia. Graf systems are available into Victoria only.
Polymaster only have two sizes, whereas Graf have three sizes. That said, Polymaster have our most popular septic tank size at Litre. The Polymaster also requires a shallower excavation at mm high, which can save you a lot of money. Both systems come with lifting points to be able to easily pick them up with machinery onsite and place into your hole.
12. Where can I buy an Aerated Wastewater Treatment Plant (AWTS) system?
ASC Water Tanks does sell AWTS systems. We supply and delivery the Kingspan BioFicient Advanced Domestic Treatment Plant. These are made from a fibre reinforced plastic (FRP), and come from Europe. They are certified to all required Australian Standards for AWTS system. For assistance on AWTS please call and speak to one of our product specialists.
ASC Water Tanks have been supplying Australian homes with rainwater tanks and pumps since . We sell top-grade Australian Made water tanks to support our economy and to deliver a superior product to our customers and have industry experts able to assist in your next project.
To discuss your next water pump set up for your rainwater harvesting system at home or irrigation system, contact us here or give us a call on 03 .
Article By: Anant Yuvarajah (Director)
When it comes to choosing a septic tank material, there are several options available in the market. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. In this article, we will compare the most common septic tank materials, including polyethylene/polypropylene resin, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, precast concrete, and steel, to help you make an informed decision.
Polyethylene/polypropylene resin tanks are popular due to their lightweight and easy installation. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks are durable and resistant to corrosion, making them a good choice for areas with high water tables. Precast concrete tanks have been used for onsite systems for many years and have a wealth of information available regarding their performance. Steel septic tanks are the least popular nowadays because of their cost and low durability.
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By comparing the different septic tank materials, you can determine which one is best suited for your property size, water usage, and budget. It is essential to choose a septic tank material that is durable, long-lasting, and meets the requirements of your local regulations. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth analysis of each septic tank material to help you make an informed decision.
Septic tanks are essential for disposing of wastewater in areas where public sewer systems are not available. They are typically made of different materials, including concrete, fiberglass, and plastic. The choice of material depends on various factors such as the size of the property, the number of occupants, and the soil type. Here is a breakdown of the different types of septic tanks.
Concrete septic tanks are the most common type of septic tank. They are durable and can withstand heavy loads. Concrete tanks are made of precast concrete and reinforced with steel rebar. They are available in various sizes and shapes, making them suitable for different properties. The downside of concrete tanks is that they are susceptible to cracking and may require regular maintenance.
Fiberglass septic tanks are lightweight and easy to install. They are resistant to corrosion and rust and can last for up to 50 years. Fiberglass tanks are available in different sizes and shapes, making them suitable for different properties. The downside of fiberglass tanks is that they are more expensive than other types of septic tanks.
Plastic septic tanks are lightweight and easy to install. They are resistant to corrosion and rust and can last for up to 40 years. Plastic tanks are available in different sizes and shapes, making them suitable for different properties. The downside of plastic tanks is that they are susceptible to cracking and may require regular maintenance.
When choosing a septic tank, it is essential to consider the size of the property, the number of occupants, and the soil type. It is also important to choose a reputable installer to ensure that the tank is installed correctly. Regular maintenance is also crucial to ensure that the tank functions correctly and lasts for its expected lifespan.
When it comes to septic tanks, there are several materials to choose from. The most common types of septic tank materials are concrete, fiberglass, and plastic. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should be carefully considered before making a decision.
Concrete septic tanks have been used for many decades and are still a popular choice for homeowners. They are heavy in weight, which means they won't float if the water table is near the tank level. The lifespan of concrete septic tanks is very long, and they are strong enough to withstand damage from heavy machines. They are also rustproof, making them a low-maintenance option.
However, concrete septic tanks can be expensive to install and repair. They are also prone to cracking and leaking over time, which can lead to costly repairs. Additionally, concrete septic tanks require regular pumping to prevent solids from accumulating and clogging the system.
Fiberglass septic tanks are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for homeowners. They are also resistant to corrosion and rust, which means they require less maintenance than concrete tanks. Fiberglass tanks are also less likely to crack or leak over time, which can save homeowners money on repairs.
However, fiberglass septic tanks can be more expensive than concrete or plastic tanks. They are also not as strong as concrete tanks and can be damaged by heavy machinery. Additionally, fiberglass tanks are not as widely available as other types of septic tanks, which can make them difficult to find.
Plastic septic tanks are the most affordable option and are easy to install. They are also resistant to corrosion and rust, which means they require less maintenance than concrete tanks. Plastic tanks are also less likely to crack or leak over time, which can save homeowners money on repairs.
However, plastic septic tanks are not as strong as concrete or fiberglass tanks and can be damaged by heavy machinery. They also have a shorter lifespan than other types of septic tanks and may need to be replaced more frequently. Additionally, plastic tanks are not suitable for areas with high water tables, as they can float and become displaced.
When it comes to choosing a septic tank material, there are several factors to consider. The most important ones are durability, cost, installation, and maintenance. In this section, we will compare the three most common septic tank materials: polyethylene/polypropylene resin, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, and precast concrete.
Polyethylene/polypropylene resin tanks are lightweight and easy to install. They have a ribbed/corrugated design to increase structural performance. However, some early poly tanks were prone to deflection and splitting during installation and in service. Newer models have addressed these issues and are more durable.
Fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks are strong and lightweight. They are resistant to corrosion, cracking, and leaking. However, they can be more expensive than other materials.
Precast concrete tanks are the most durable of the three materials. They are less prone to damage caused by the weight of the soil or water pressure. With proper maintenance, a concrete septic tank can last for decades. Unlike other types of septic systems, concrete tanks do not require frequent repairs or replacements.
Polyethylene/polypropylene resin tanks are the most affordable of the three materials. They are lightweight and easy to install, which can save on installation costs.
Fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks are more expensive than poly tanks but less expensive than concrete tanks. They are lightweight and easy to install, which can save on installation costs.
Precast concrete tanks are the most expensive of the three materials. They are heavy and require special equipment to install, which can increase installation costs.
Polyethylene/polypropylene resin tanks are lightweight and easy to install. They require minimal maintenance, but they may need to be pumped more frequently than other materials.
Fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks are lightweight and easy to install. They require minimal maintenance and may not need to be pumped as frequently as other materials.
Precast concrete tanks are heavy and require special equipment to install. They require minimal maintenance, but they may need to be pumped less frequently than other materials.
In summary, the choice of septic tank material depends on several factors, including durability, cost, installation, and maintenance. Polyethylene/polypropylene resin tanks are the most affordable and easy to install, but they may require more frequent pumping. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks are strong and lightweight, but they can be more expensive. Precast concrete tanks are the most durable and require minimal maintenance, but they are the most expensive and require special equipment to install.
When it comes to choosing a septic tank, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the main things you should take into account:
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a septic tank is the type of soil on your property. Different types of soil have different drainage rates, which can affect the performance of your septic system. For example, if you have heavy clay soil, it may not drain as quickly as sandy soil, which can cause problems with your septic system. It's important to have a soil test done to determine the type of soil on your property before choosing a septic tank.
Another factor to consider is the climate in your area. If you live in a cold climate with freezing temperatures, you'll need to choose a septic tank that is designed to withstand freezing conditions. Similarly, if you live in an area with a lot of rainfall, you'll need to choose a septic tank that can handle the increased water flow.
The size of your household is another important factor to consider when choosing a septic tank. The larger your household, the larger the septic tank you'll need. A larger tank will be able to handle more wastewater, which is important for ensuring that your septic system functions properly.
Finally, it's important to consider any local regulations that may affect your choice of septic tank. Different areas may have different requirements for septic systems, such as minimum tank size or specific materials that must be used. It's important to research the regulations in your area before choosing a septic tank to ensure that you're in compliance with local laws.
Overall, choosing the right septic tank is essential for ensuring that your septic system functions properly. By taking into account factors such as soil type, climate, household size, and local regulations, you can make an informed decision about which septic tank is right for you.
When it comes to choosing the right septic tank material, there are several factors to consider. Septic tanks made of polyethylene/polypropylene resin, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, and precast concrete are all viable options, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Polyethylene/polypropylene resin tanks are lightweight, easy to install, and resistant to rust and corrosion. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks are also lightweight and durable, making them a good choice for areas with limited access. Precast concrete tanks are the traditional option and have a wealth of information available regarding their use and maintenance.
Ultimately, the decision of which material to use will depend on the specific needs of the property owner. Factors such as budget, site location, and expected usage should all be taken into consideration. It is recommended that property owners consult with a licensed septic system professional to determine the best option for their specific situation.
Regardless of the material chosen, it is important to properly maintain the septic system to ensure its longevity and proper functioning. Regular pumping, inspections, and repairs as needed can help prevent costly and inconvenient issues down the line.
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