Septic Tank System – Pros and Cons

Posted by shortyssanitary on May 19th, 2021

The septic system is one of the two effective ways for draining waste out of houses.

The septic system includes a septic tank (usually underground to the side or back of a property). Outgoing drains from the sinks, tubs and toilets empty into the tank. In the tank, gunk and waste are separated from the water. The water is then sent to a drain field through drain field pipes.

The other method of wastewater disposal is municipal sewer lines. While the septic system serves a single property, sewer lines connect whole cities. Whether your property has one or the other will depend on the location.

The septic tank system is preferable to sewer lines for a lot of homeowners.

Which one you favor depends on whether you want the independence of a septic system, or the reliability of sewer lines.

Benefits of Septic Systems

There are several key benefits and disadvantages of septic tank systems. Whether you prefer a septic system, or city sewer lines, it depends on whether you like to be free of regular sewage bills, or you want to be responsible for the occasional round of maintenance and other possible repair needs.

Different Types of Septic Tanks

The biggest advantages of a septic tank system include durability, strength and low maintenance. The pros and cons of septic tanks also depends upon the tank type.

Septic tanks can be made of concrete and last for several decades. However, concrete may crack and leak waste. Backups in a concrete septic tank could impact the outflow from the drains.

Steel septic tanks are vulnerable to rust and may last no more than 25 years. With time, the steel could get weaker and ill-suited to support any weight above the ground. As a result, a person may even fall into a steel tank that has lost its structural integrity. But there’s an upside too! A rusted cover can be replaced without the complete replacement of the tank itself.

Fiberglass septic tanks are free from the weaknesses of concrete and steel tanks. They are rust-proof and not prone to cracking.

Aerobic septic tanks run on electricity and are expensive but they are more efficient. Aerobic tanks last a long time.

Saves Money

A septic tank can help you save money because –

• It costs less to install compared to the installation of sewage pipes
• It doesn't have a monthly cost unlike city sewage lines

Better for the Environment

Septic systems are eco-friendlier because they don't contaminate groundwater unless they develop a leak. And that is why it is recommended that you carry out regular septic system maintenance.

Drain fields and leach fields help to reduce pollution by acting as natural filters.

The way septic tanks recycle water is beneficial to a nearby plant and animal life.

Better Water Efficiency

Septic tanks help homeowners achieve greater water efficiency by cultivating habits for judicious use of water.

If you are looking for pipe repair or pump installation companies in White Lake or Clarkston, MI, call Shorty’s Sanitary Service at 248-332-6476.