Septic tanks play a crucial role in waste management for properties that lack access to municipal sewer systems, such as those in rural areas. They act as an onsite sewage treatment system, by breaking down organic waste and filtering wastewater. Concrete and plastic tanks are the most common material choices, so it’s important to understand their respective benefits and drawbacks.
This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of plastic septic tanks, compare them to concrete alternatives and examine some high-end plastic tank options from Tank Depot to determine if they are a viable, if not superior, option for your needs.
Septic Tank Basics
A septic tank is a subterranean structure that works as an exclusive wastewater treatment system, by allowing liquids to be separated from solid materials for efficient disposal. The organic matter is then broken down through anaerobic processes while the liquid portion is filtered and eventually released back into the environment. Regular maintenance is crucial for a septic tank’s efficient operation, including periodic pumping to remove sludge buildup.
Concrete Tanks vs. Plastic Tanks
Advantages
Concrete tanks have long been the traditional choice for septic systems due to their durability and strength.
Disadvantages
There are drawbacks associated with concrete tanks that must be considered:
- They can be more expensive
- They are challenging to install, given their weight and the need for heavy equipment
- They have the propensity to crack over time, which can lead to costly repairs or even replacement
- They are susceptible to corrosion from the chemicals present in wastewater, which further diminishes their lifespan.
In contrast, plastic septic tanks provide several advantages that make them an appealing alternative to concrete tanks. Let’s discuss the positives and negatives of plastic septic tanks in detail to understand why they are a viable, if not superior, option.
Advantages of Plastic Septic Tanks
Lightweight and Easy to Install
Plastic septic tanks are significantly lighter than their concrete counterparts, making them easier to transport and install. Because it is lightweight, this product can easily be installed in different locations across any property to give owners maximum flexibility when placing the tank. Furthermore, the installation process for plastic tanks tends to be less labor-intensive and less expensive.
Corrosion and Crack Resistance
Unlike concrete septic tanks, plastic tanks are highly resilient to water-based corrosion. The flexibility of plastic makes it resistant to cracking and breaking. The increased durability will lead to fewer costly repairs in the future to give you a longer-lasting system at an economical cost.
Cost-Effectiveness
In general, plastic septic tanks are less expensive than concrete alternatives, both in terms of initial costs and long-term maintenance. This affordability makes plastic tanks an attractive option for property owners on a budget.
Disadvantages of Plastic Septic Tanks
Lower Structural Strength
Although plastic tanks have numerous advantages, they tend to be less structurally strong than concrete tanks. As a result, plastic tanks may require additional support or reinforcement to ensure that they maintain their shape and integrity.
Susceptibility to Damage
While plastic tanks are resistant to damage from external forces, they may be more susceptible to punctures or damage from roots, rocks and heavy equipment than concrete tanks. It is crucial to take extra care and consideration when installing a plastic tank and monitor the surrounding area for potential hazards that could compromise the tank’s integrity.
High-End Plastic Septic Tanks from Tank Depot
Tank Depot has a broad selection of top-notch tanks in various sizes and capacities. Made with corrosion-resistant materials, their products are built to last; giving you an economical way to manage waste appropriately.
Standard-Sized Septic Tanks
The standard-sized septic tank for a home depends on the number of bedrooms and the number of people living in the residence. The most common sizes are 1,000 and 1,500-gallon septic tanks, though tanks as small as 300 gallons are available and larger tanks with capacities of 2,500 gallons or greater can also be purchased.
One-Compartment Tank or Two?
A one-compartment septic tank is a single, underground watertight chamber designed to filter raw domestic wastewater. As the heavier particles settle at the bottom of the tank, lighter materials such as grease will rise to its surface and stay there; meanwhile, the effluent travels onwards towards disposal, providing it with additional treatment before entering into drainage fields — an effective way for distribution!
On the other hand, a two-compartment septic tank consists of two separate chambers. The first chamber performs the same function as a one-compartment tank by allowing solids to settle and other matter such as oils and grease to float while partially treating the wastewater. The partially treated wastewater then flows into the second chamber, where it undergoes further treatment as additional solids settle, and greases and lighter solids continue to float.
The improved separation of solids in a two-compartment septic tank typically results in more effective wastewater treatment and a lower likelihood of solids clogging the drain field.
Soil Issues?
If your installation requires being able to use native soils for backfill without needing water during this process, the Bruiser series of septic holding tanks provide it. They can be utilized as:
- Septic tanks
- Pump chambers
- Cistern tanks
- Holding tanks
Tank Depot Carries the Highest Quality Plastic Septic Tanks at the Lowest Price
At Tank Depot, we are committed to bringing you the highest quality products and services at an affordable price! Our water tanks are made by the leading plastic tank manufacturers throughout America — and our goal is to provide a superior product for your money every time.
We want to make sure that you get the best possible value for your purchase, so we take advantage of the low costs associated with selling our goods online and pass those savings on to you.
Contact us today to place an order or to find the Tank Depot location nearest you.
