A Guide On Domestic Wastewater Treatment Systems

Domestic wastewater systems, otherwise known as septic tanks, are the most common and effective ways to manage wastewater in your home. If you wish to install a domestic wastewater treatment system, continue reading this article to learn how the systems work and what to consider when installing the system. 

How Do Domestic Wastewater Treatment Systems Work?

Septic tanks are underground water treatment tanks that have a straightforward operating principle. Wastewater from your kitchen, sinks, bathrooms and toilets flows into the tank. The wastewater settles inside the tank, with solids at the bottom, liquids at the centre and fats at the top. Anaerobic bacteria inside the tank breaks down the solid waste. This gradually cleans the liquid inside the tank. Once the liquid levels rise to a predetermined level, it flows into a drain field outside the tank. Usually, the drain field contains gravel or sand that further filters the water and allows it to seep into the ground. As it seeps, bacteria inside the soil break down any solids or contaminants in the water. The clean water flows into underground aquifers.  

Considerations When Installing A Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant 

You will need a professional assessment to establish whether you can install a septic tank in your home. Usually, the professional identifies a suitable location to install the septic tank. Ideally, the area should be a distance from your house. Remember, if the drain field is close to your home, the water could damage the foundation. The professional also examines the location of underground utilities and the presence of easements when determining an appropriate site to bury the septic tank. They also test the soil to ensure it has adequate drainage. If the water at the drain field does not seep underground, you risk flooding the area. 

The professional will then assess the volume of wastewater your home produces to determine the size of the septic tank you need. There are different types of septic tanks; concrete, steel, plastic and fibreglass. Concrete tanks are ideal for permanent installations since they are sturdy, rustproof and difficult to damage. However, they are costly and difficult to repair in case of damages. Steel septic tanks are durable. Nevertheless, they have a short lifespan since they quickly corrode. 

Plastic septic tanks are ideal since they are cheap and resistant to rust and chemicals. Besides, you can easily move them. Their drawback is that they can suffer damages and float if the water table is too near. Fibreglass septic tanks are quite similar to plastic septic tanks. However, they are stronger and more durable. 

Domestic wastewater treatment plants are an easy way to overcome the challenges associated with disposing of wastewater from your home. A professional assessment will help you determine the size, location and type of septic tank you should use. 

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