These data confirm the need to define personal criteria when looking for the best septic tank for a summer residence. In addition to the information noted above, you should pay attention to the following data:
- The actual volume of effluents (normal / maximum).
- The possibility of careful maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
- Intended installation method (independent / with the help of specialists).
- Ground water level.
- The thickness of the earth layer above the hull and the corresponding loads.
- Ease of travel of equipment for the extraction of accumulated wastewater.
Important! The best septic tank performs its functions without unnecessary difficulties and high operating costs. For an accurate assessment, all significant factors are analyzed in a complex.
Regardless of the specific form (drawing with dimensions, or a set of documentation in accordance with GOST), the materials should contain information not only about the septic tank. They indicate the number and parameters of straight pipes and other fittings, hoses and hatches for. Electric drives are equipped with overheating and surge protection devices. Submersibles are supplemented with convenient lifting devices for inspection and repair.
After a thorough study of all the nuances of the project, they make the necessary adjustments to the requirements for the equipment. Make up an accurate list of the main components of the system and additions, building materials, tools. This work will help to clarify the amount of future financial and labor costs.
Related article:
The article explains how to do it. The description of the requirements for the construction is supplemented with reviews of effective technologies and ready-made models with characteristics and prices. This information will help you implement your project quickly and at a reasonable cost.
The current rating of the best septic tanks for a country house
To determine which is the best septic tank for a summer residence, the current rating is supplemented with consumer reviews. Data on warranty obligations, operating instructions will come in handy.
Topas
A significant advantage of this brand is the specialized production of various treatment facilities:
| Model | Productivity, (cubic meters per day) / Permissible volume of one-time discharge (cubic meters) | price, rub. | Notes (edit) | |
 Topas-C4 | 0,8/125 | 95 x 97 x 2.5 / 215 | 78500-86500 | Compact system with one compressor. |
 Topas 4 OL | 0,8/175 | 88 x 97 x 260/225 | 95200-108900 | Equipped with two compressors for active aeration of the compartment with aerobic microorganisms. |
 Topas 8 Long OL | 3/1025 | 230 х120 х310 / 715 | 251000-268800 | Installation for large needs (up to 15 users). Such equipment is suitable for equipping large real estate objects. |
 Topol-Eco TOPAS-S 8 Ave | 1,3/- | — | 110900-115300 | Equipment for deep cleaning with five working chambers. Non-volatile execution. |
For your information! On the official website, you can buy a septic tank Topas inexpensively from the manufacturer. The price in the price list is not increased by the profit of intermediaries, so you can count on quite acceptable offers.
On a separate request, the company creates a complex type of treatment facilities, specialized sets:
- The Toplos line includes modifications:
- "Aqua" - for cleaning liquids from open reservoirs;
- "KM" - container-type plant;
- "FL" - equipment for the detention of organic matter.
- Cleaning from fatty impurities will be performed by "Toppolium".
- The Toprain kit is intended for equipping petrol stations and car workshops.
With the help of the listed products and other products of this company, it is possible to solve specific problems with reasonable costs. When sold, the price with turnkey installation includes delivery and installation. This data will help to clarify the amount of real investment.
Tank
Treatment facilities under this trademark are produced by Triton Plastic. Currently, this company offers the following assortment of Tank suburban septic tanks. The price in the table is as of August 2017:
| Model of the "Tank" series | Productivity, (cubic meters per day) | Length x Width x Height (cm) / Weight (kg) | Price for one / three items, rub. |
 1
| 0,6 | 120 x 100 x 170/85 | 22700/17000 |
 2
| 0,8 | 180 x 120 x 170/130 | 32800/27500 |
 2,5
| 1 | 203 x 120 x 185/140 | 37900/32500 |
 3
| 1,2 | 220 x 120 x 200/150 | 44700/39500 |
 4
| 1,8 | 360 x 100 x 170/228 | 59000/54000 |
For your information! If you choose a septic tank, the owner's reviews should be studied with a duration of operating experience for at least several seasons. This will make it possible to obtain objective information, to take into account regular additional costs in economic calculations.
The manufacturer cites the following advantages of products in this series:
- Their design is well tested in practice, taking into account the opinions of real users.
- This equipment performs its function without consuming electricity and without associated operating costs.
- It can be installed in any soil.
- Installation is allowed without concreting the base and rigid attachment to it using anchoring.
- Good tightness is useful when the water table is high.
Important! In the official instructions, the company notes the need to remove bottom sediments during seasonal living (in the fall, before preparing the summer cottage for winter). If the property is used constantly, such a procedure is needed no more than 1 time in 5 years or less. For the decomposition of sediments, special sets of microorganisms are used.
The prices indicated for the septic tank Tank are intended for the capital and the Moscow region. Discounts are provided not only for the number of items purchased. They are valid when ordering professional installation (+12400 rubles).
Triton
The same manufacturer produces other polymer products. The following series are presented on the domestic market under the Triton brand:
- "N" - storage tanks for waste with a volume of 1000 to 27000 liters, costing 24800-426000 rubles.
- "T" - septic tanks of traditional design from three separate chambers.
- "P" - tanks for fire protection systems.
- "K" - caissons
- "PM" - devices for retaining fats for installation under.
| Model of the Triton-T series | Tank volume, liters | Diameter x length of the tank, cm | Approximate number of users |
| 1 | 1000 | 120 x 117 | 2 |
| 1,5 | 1500 | 120 x 162 | 3 |
| 2,5 | 2500 | 120 x 252 | 5 |
| 5 | 5000 | 120 x 472 | 10 |
| 10 | 10000 | 150 x 600 | 20 |
| 12 | 12000 | 200 x 405 | — |
| 30 | 30000 | 200 x 980 | — |
Such a kit is suitable for installation in the country. The wall thickness of these products is from 10 to 15 mm, which provides good resistance to mechanical stress. Technical data are shown in the table:
| Name | Tank volume, liters | Length x Width x Height in cm | Weight, kg |
| Septic tank | 750 | 125 x 820 x 170 | 85 |
| Infiltration device | 400 | 180 x 800 x 400 | 20 |
Such a set is not difficult to transport and install yourself. The manufacturer includes a neck and caps as standard. The infiltrator is optional. Instead, you can apply a filtering field.
Termite
Septic tanks under this brand are created by Multiplast. This company manufactures polymer products using vacuum and rotary forming technologies. Having our own design departments allows us to respond in a timely manner to market requirements. The production equipped with modern equipment ensures cost minimization and excellent quality. It is permissible to manufacture one-piece containers with a volume of up to 10 thousand liters.
The manufacturer emphasizes that only primary raw materials, high-quality polymers are used for the manufacture of cases. One-piece molding and radial end ribs help maintain structural integrity even under heavy loads. The technical characteristics of the products are checked by a series of special hydrodynamic tests.
| Model series "Termite" | Productivity, cubic meters per day | Tank volume, liters | Length x Width x Height, cm | Weight, kg | Notes (edit) |
 Accumulator 1.2 | 0,4 | 1200 | 134 x 116 x 156.5 | 80 | Storage capacity. |
 Pro 1.2 | 0,4 | 1200 | 134 x 116 x 156.5 | 80 | The most compact septic tank with additional soil cleaning. Wall thickness - up to 20 mm. |
 Transformer 1.5 S | 0,6 | 1500 | 200 x 80 x 200 | 110 | This equipment can be converted into a forced air cleaning station. Proprietary aeration kit available |
 Pro 2.5 | 1 | 2500 | 200 x 115.5 200.5 | 135 | Suitable for a family of 5. |
 Transformer 2.5 PR | 1 | 2500 | 205 x 105 x 211 | 155 | Such a septic tank can be used. |
For your information! When buying a septic tank Termit on a turnkey basis, the price includes installation work. But you need to make sure that these services are available for a specific region. Otherwise, you will have to organize the installation of equipment on your own.
Unilos
The current product line includes two series of septic tanks in a classic design:
These are complete cleaning stations that differ in the following characteristics:
- The walls of expanded polymer (polypropylene) create an insulation layer that prevents the harmful effects of changes in external temperature.
- For forced air supply, membrane technology is used here, which helps to extend the service life of the aerator to 10 years or more.
- Removal of excess sludge (it is used as fertilizer) is carried out using a regular airlift.
You can purchase a suitable station, taking into account the required distance from. When designing a route, the following restrictions apply:
| Modification | Outlet depth in cm for different wastewater systems | Maximum inlet depth, cm | |
| Gravity | Forced | ||
| "Standard" | 45 | 15 | 60 |
| "Midi" | 60 | 30 | 90 |
| Long | — | — | 120 |
The price of the septic tank Unilos Astra 5 (76-83 thousand rubles) cannot be called overstated given the good consumer characteristics. This equipment provides full satisfaction of all drainage needs for a family of 4-5 people. It retains functionality during salvo discharge up to 250 liters. Electricity consumption does not exceed 60 W per hour.
Aqua-Bio
These treatment facilities are capable of processing from 0.7 to 1.5 cubic meters. drains in 24 hours (5-10 users). The increased thickness of the case up to 25 mm allows it to withstand heavy loads without damage. The manufacturer positions its products as intended for loamy and sandy soils, areas with low groundwater levels. It offers necks of different heights in 100 mm increments, so choosing the best option is not difficult.
For your information! Several years ago, the manufacturer made a rebranding. Now the products of this series are called "BARS-Bio".
Poplar
| Modification | Inlet pipe depth, cm | Width x Depth x Height, cm | Processing volume per day, cubic meters | Permissible salvo discharge, l |
 3
| 80 | 112 x 106 x 212.5 | 0,65 | 180 |
 5
| 80 | 103 x 100 x 248.5 | 1 | 250 |
 10
| 80 | 192.8 x 112 x 248.5 | 2 | 790 |
 50
| 80 | 300 x 216 x 300 | 8,9 | 1900 |
 150 LONG | 140 | 400 x 482 x 300 | 24 | 4600 |
Drawing of the installation "Tver 1P" Ecopan
The production association is the oldest specialized domestic enterprise. The application of the accumulated experience in practice is manifested in good consumer characteristics and reasonable prices. All products of this type are provided with official certificates, a five-year warranty.
| Model range parameters | Units | Limit values | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number of users | human | 2-15 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| liters | Septic tank Ecopan
| Model range parameters | Units | Limit values | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Maximum one-time discharge | liters | 400-3000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The amount of wastewater to be treated in 24 hours | cubic meters | Schematic diagram of a cleaning station
| Manufacturer / Model | Productivity, m3 / day | Dimensions, cm | Weight, kg | Price |
| Triton Plastic / Triton-T 2.5 | — | 120 x 252 | — | 48000 |
 Multiplast / Termite Transformer 2.5 S | 1 | 205 x 105 x 211 | 145 | 45000 |
 Unilos / Astra 5 | 1 | 103 x 100 x 199.5 | 250 | 71600 |
 Granite-M / Poplar | 1 | 103 x 100 x 248.5 | — | 83300 |
 TD "Engineering Equipment" / Tver - 1 PN | 1 | 300 x 110 x 167 | 180 | 112300 |
 PA "Pankom" / Ecopan L5 | 1 | 255 x 144 x 164 | 210 | 97500 |
 LLC "Alexis" / Leader 1 | 1 | 270 x 145 x 165 | 150 | 105000 |
For your information! When creating a septic tank for a home with your own hands, you must take into account the aggregate costs of construction and auxiliary work, the purchase of compressors and other manufactured products.
Convenient when a private house is connected to a centralized sewerage system. But if this is not possible, then you should think about installing a local waste disposal system - a septic tank.
It allows you to save the site from pollution, and in some cases makes it possible to obtain industrial water from the wastewater for irrigating plants, washing cars, etc.
In this case, a septic tank is based on a simple principle.
Whatever the purification device, its work is based on 3 principles:
- sedimentation of large suspensions;
- floating up of light pollutants;
- biodegradation.
All septic tanks consist of several chambers. In the first tank, the first 2 stages of cleaning take place. The branch pipe leading to the next chamber is located in the center, diverting water in which there are no floating suspended solids and heavy fractions. The type of biodegradation and its efficiency depends on the type of apparatus.
In the video you can see the process of water purification in a septic tank:
Types of septic tanks for a private house
The division of the wastewater treatment system into types is based on dependence on electricity, the type of biodegradation and the material from which the septic tank is made.
Anaerobic and aerobic varieties
In simpler designs, anaerobic (oxygen-free) decomposition of contaminants occurs in the second and subsequent tanks. Such purification is not complete and requires an additional stage of soil filtration: filtration wells or filtration fields.
In them, the remaining impurities are retained by a filter bed, on which a film of microorganisms is additionally formed, continuing the biooxidation process.
Local treatment plants more complex and efficient designs. They simulate large sewage treatment systems.
The VOC also has several cameras. In addition to sedimentation and anaerobic decomposition, such a device has a compartment in which aerobic microorganisms (activated sludge) in the presence of oxygen break down impurities.
After that, the water enters a special sedimentation tank for the sedimentation of activated sludge, which is pumped out by the airlift into the stabilization compartment. Part of the sludge mass is again fed to the aerobic cleaning tank. The settled dense sludge must be periodically removed from the tank.
There are also reservoirs in which water does not undergo any processing, except for precipitation. They only collect and periodically remove waste water. The storage devices can only conditionally be called a septic tank, this is a cesspool - a cheap option to install, suitable only for small country houses with a small volume of drains.
Electricity dependence
It is important to know this principle of classification of wastewater disposal systems, since not all country houses have access to an uninterrupted supply of electricity.
- Non-volatile are simple devices where anaerobic oxidation of organic matter is carried out, and water is poured between reservoirs and to the stage of soil purification by gravity.
- VOCs don't work without electricity required for the operation of the air compressor. Also, in many models, wastewater from one chamber to another and activated sludge are pumped by airlifts powered by a compressor.
Anaerobic devices depend on electricity when, due to the terrain, it is necessary to install a pump to transfer liquid to the soil filtration stage.
What and how to make a septic tank?
Tanks for wastewater treatment can be made from different materials.
- There is ready-made plastic tanks. You can make them yourself from several large-diameter plastic pipes or eurocubes. Installing such containers is quick and easy, without the involvement of special equipment. They are durable and have been the most popular lately.
- Metal containers may be ready. They can also be welded from multiple sheets. Such tanks are rarely used, mainly when it is necessary to locate the container at a great depth. From the inside, to extend the life of the container, it is recommended to treat it with an anti-corrosion compound.
- Brick- budgetary, but physically costly material. The brick is laid on a concrete base. The section can be round or with right angles.
- Concrete ring septic tanks Is one of the most traditional options. Products with a diameter of about 1 m are used, which are installed on top of each other. For their delivery and installation, it is necessary to hire freight transport and a crane. Concrete containers often leak at the junction.
Reservoirs made of wood and tires from truck wheels are budgetary, but not very reliable.
When choosing the type and model of the device, it is necessary to correctly make calculations, take into account the features of the site.
The price of the finished station is also an important factor.
How to choose a septic tank for a private house?
The simplest and most reliable option is a ready-made plastic septic tank. There are now enough firms offering such products. Before buying or building a septic tank for a toilet on your own, you need to decide on several parameters.
Performance
The required capacity and volume are determined by the number of inhabitants. If guests periodically reside in the house, then they must also be taken into account when calculating. On average, one person generates 200 liters of wastewater per day.
A family of four requires equipment with a capacity of 800 liters. Since waste water can be stored in tanks for 3 days, then the received power must be multiplied by 3 to get the volume value. For our example, you need tank with a volume of 2.4 m 3.
Natural conditions
Features of the relief, soil and climatic conditions are also important not only at the stage of installation, but also at the purchase stage.
- You need to know the depth of soil freezing, because the pipeline and its entrance to the container must be below the zero point. There are special ready-made models with an elongated neck and a low inlet.
- Itself the equipment is recommended to be installed where there is an elevation to protect it from atmospheric moisture.
- If the landscape does not allow gravity drainage from the tank, then you need to choose a model with forced evacuation of the purified liquid, in the last chamber of which the pump is located.
- For clay soils prone to bursting during freezing we need structures with extra strong walls: concrete, plastic with stiffening ribs.
- For soil post-treatment, it is especially important to know the type of soil. The best option is sandy soils. In other cases, the arrangement of filtration fields requires a lot of effort.
Cost and popular models
Photo - Tank 2.5
Each owner takes into account the price of a waste disposal device. But here it is better not to save.
The best option is to purchase ready-made equipment.
Below are the prices for popular models designed to serve 4-5 people.
- Popular septic tank with soil post-treatment Tank 2.5 fully loaded is from 36 thousand rubles.
- Proven Poplar 5, related to complete biological treatment plants, can be purchased at least 72,000 rubles.
- Topas 5 also provides a high degree of wastewater treatment. Such equipment is worth about 80,000 rubles.
- If you are looking for a septic tank for a summer residence, then a good option might be "Triton-mini", with a volume of 750 liters. Together with the soil filtration system, it costs about 22 thousand rubles.
- More and more positive reviews are gaining and VOC "Unilos Astra-5"... You can become the owner of this system for about 80 thousand rubles.
Many users have already become convinced of the reliable operation of these devices. In addition, they are all simple and for self-assembly.
The device and installation of septic tanks
Installing a wastewater treatment device is quite simple, especially a ready-made plastic container, to which instructions are attached. First you need to choose the right place.
- From the foundation at home to the septic tank should be at least 5 meters. But it is also not necessary to install too far away, otherwise a revision well is needed.
- Distance between trees and a septic tank 3 m.
- From rivers and reservoirs it should be 30 m to the sewage treatment device, and 50 m from wells and wells.
- Roads must not pass over filtration fields.
As mentioned above, it is important to know the depth of soil freezing, which is indicated in SNIP 2.02.01-83 * for each region of the country. Pipes and soil filtration elements should be located below the zero temperature point.
Based on all these data, a septic tank is installed in accordance with step by step instructions.
- They dig trenches with a slope for pipes and a pit for the septic tank itself.
- A layer of sand 10 mm thick is poured into the ravines, rammed, be sure to observe the slope.
- A sand and, if necessary, concrete cushion is built in the pit. It should be flat.
- Set the septic tank exactly.
- Connect it to the supply pipes, as well as the pipeline leading to the soil filtration or collecting tank.
- Pipes and reservoir are filled up. It is important to pour liquid into the container, the water level should be 150 mm above the backfill level.
Sprinkle the tank with a mixture of cement and sand, and the last 30 cm with soil. After that, the system is ready for start-up and operation.
Watch a video on how to make a septic tank with your own hands:
Septic tank service: price
Plastic tanks do not require any special maintenance.
- The VOC conducts a sludge assessment quarterly. If it is dark and begins to thicken, then it is necessary to remove it. A simple drain pump can be used for this.
- Once every 1-2 years, it is necessary to pump out the sediment from the sump using a sewage machine. It is recommended to flush the entire reservoir during this time.
- Once a week, you should look into the tank hatch to evaluate the work. This is especially true for aerobic installations.
You can conclude a contract with a specialized organization for service. A one-time procedure with sludge pumping and equipment revision costs at least 4,000 rubles. The minimum cost of annual maintenance is 15 thousand rubles.
The full range of works and their price depends on the model.
Which is better: the characteristics of the models
| Model name | Productivity, m 3 / day | Volume, m3 | Dimensions (edit) | Price, thousand rubles |
| Eurobion 4 | 0,8 | 0,25* | 1.0x1.0x2.3 | 67 |
| Eurobion 5 | 0,9 | 0,39* | 1.1x1.1x2.4 | 71 |
| Tank 2 | 0,8 | 2,0 | 1.8x1.2x1.7 | 29 |
| Tank 2.5 | 1,0 | 2,5 | 2.0x1.2x1.9 | 33 |
| Triton mini | 0,5 | 0,75 | 1.3x0.8x1.7 | 19 |
| Triton-ED | 0,6-1,2 | 1,8 | 1.2x1.2x1.7 | 23 |
| Poplar 5 | 1,1 | 0,25* | 1.0x1.0x2.5 (3.0) | 80 |
| Poplar 8 | 1,9 | 0,47* | 1.3x1.0x2.5 (3.0) | 95 |
| Astra 5 | 1 | 0,25* | 1.1x1.1x2.4 | 72 |
| Astra 8 | 1 | 0,35* | 1.5x1.2x2.4 | 90 |
* for VOCs, volley discharge volumes are indicated.
Installation cost
If you decide to install a septic tank inexpensively, i.e. independently and have chosen a ready-made plastic model, the cost of the finished structure will depend on the price of the model, sand, cement and pipelines.
You can order a turnkey installation of a cleaning system. The minimum cost of such a service is 21 thousand rubles.
But once you invest, you will ensure the reliable operation of the treatment equipment and the cleanliness of the site itself.
Owners of private houses often face the problem of wastewater disposal due to the lack of a centralized sewage system outside the city. For a long time, the only way out was to dig a cesspool, but using it is quite inconvenient and costly. Now they are mainly trying to mount an autonomous wastewater treatment unit - septic tanks for summer cottages, but still which septic tank is better to choose for specific conditions often remains a difficult question.
Together with the technical specialists of the EcoDom company, in this article we will analyze in detail the question of which septic tank is right for you and discuss the best options based on the tasks that it must solve.
A cesspool or storage septic tank will have to be cleaned regularly
What are septic tanks, and what they are
Some people mistakenly call a septic tank a complete set of treatment equipment. In fact, this is only a part of the treatment plant that acts as a storage and primary filter for wastewater containing a large amount of biomaterials that require disposal.
There are quite a few varieties of septic tanks, and each of them has its own pros and cons. Therefore, before purchasing, it is necessary to take into account the soil on which the country house stands, the amount of water consumed and, of course, the budget that can be allocated for the purchase and installation.
Video description
Briefly about septic tanks in the video:
Also, at the initial stage, it is necessary to decide on the type of device - to purchase a non-volatile septic tank or in which a forced supply of drains is organized (volatile). The former are, by and large, ordinary tanks for surface (within 60%) mechanical wastewater treatment, and the latter are equipped with a pump and a set of additional filters, after which industrial water is obtained at the outlet, purified by 95-98%.
Septic tanks with a full cleaning cycle and a storage well for industrial water
It is possible to decide correctly which septic tank to choose - for year-round living or capable of working effectively even with periodic flows of drains, you can independently, since there is enough information. Many turn to the help of the Internet for such requests as the rating of septic tanks for a country house in 2017, to get acquainted with the various ratings of septic tanks. But if there are doubts about the correctness of the choice, then the best option would be to turn to professionals. They will take into account all the nuances and select the appropriate option, tailored to the solution of specific tasks.
Cleaning steps
Wastewater goes through several stages of purification in a septic tank:
Accumulation and settling stage. This stage consists in collecting waste in a special container, where they are separated into fractions, by settling at a temperature of about 20 degrees. Solid particles in the form of a sediment fall to the bottom, fatty deposits float to the surface, and vapors (carbon dioxide and methane) are discharged through the ventilation to the outside. At this stage, there is a partial stratification of wastewater, which is then sent to the next tank;
Secondary filtration stage. Its goal is to cleanse the mixture to about 75%. At this stage, the solution is purified using a separate filter consisting of a sorbent layer of about 20 centimeters. In some septic tanks, for correct operation, the sorbent has to be flushed and reactivated annually;
Stages of wastewater treatment in septic tanks
Solid deposits that have settled in the containers are pumped out or removed mechanically.
Operating principle
Technically, two types of waste disposal are used: anaerobic (without air access) and aerobic (decomposition with the participation of bacteria, which need oxygen for life).
The anaerobic mechanism of action is possessed by septic tanks, which perform the functions of a storage or settling tank. Such purification systems, without the installation of additional equipment, carry out only the primary clarification of wastewater and require their frequent pumping out by a sewage machine.
Important! According to sanitary standards, the discharge of liquid from anaerobic septic tanks into the soil is prohibited.
This option is suitable for rarely visited summer cottages or private houses with a small number of residents. The cost of such a structure is low, the installation does not require much effort, and its operation does not require a constant flow of wastewater into the chambers.
How an anaerobic septic tank works
Often, colonies of active bacteria are added to such septic tanks, which help to filter wastewater better than with conventional anaerobic purification.
The aerobic mechanism of action is carried out by local biological treatment stations. Colonies of aerobic bacteria settle in such septic tanks, which effectively purify wastewater.
Unlike anaerobic crops, they multiply rapidly, have a wide variety of species, and are also more tenacious and active. Recycling is much faster and the outlet water is practically non-toxic.
For the normal functioning of these septic tanks, the installation of aerators is required, which will supply the oxygen necessary for the vital activity of bacteria. Also, the aerobic systems must constantly work - if within 2-3 weeks there is no new effluent entering the chamber, then the bacteria will die and their cultures will have to be planted again.
Obviously, the best septic tank for a country house is an aerobic one. But it all depends on the budget, since this type of treatment plant is more expensive.
Scheme of aerobic septic tank operation
What materials are septic tanks made of
An important aspect when buying a septic tank is the choice of the material from which it is made. Most often, when ordering a ready-made septic tank, it is made from polymer materials.
In addition, the following materials are used for the manufacture of a local cleaning system:
Metal constructions. Rarely used due to susceptibility to corrosion, general impracticality and inconvenience of use;
Concrete. Monolithic structures are used as reservoirs. This option requires a lot of money and time; It is mainly used in the construction of septic tanks with your own hands;
Fiberglass structures are the most suitable and frequently used material.
Also, septic tanks can be made from scrap materials (barrels, tires) on their own, but this option is only suitable for small country houses.
Homemade small septic tanks for summer cottages - made of tires and concrete rings
You can save money on the purchase of a purification plant by placing an order at the manufacturing plant. The most expensive on the market are septic tanks with additional equipment for complete biological wastewater treatment.
Volatile and non-volatile septic tanks
According to the degree of their autonomy, the purification systems are divided into:
Non-volatile (autonomous) septic tanks are sedimentation tanks for the accumulation and clarification of wastewater. Such installations require periodic pumping of waste with a sewage machine. They have a low degree of purification and require additional soil filtration, for which it is necessary to allocate a piece of land. The positive aspects include low cost and independence from electricity;
Volatile septic tanks are the exact opposite of non-volatile structures. Thanks to the design and additional equipment, wastewater in such systems undergoes a full cycle of processing and purification, which eliminates the need for maintenance. The disadvantages include the cost of installation, as well as dependence on electricity. During the absence of power supply, the degree of purification of sewage water decreases, and the septic tank serves as a sump.
A pump and aerator are essential components of a volatile septic tank.
Criteria for choosing a purification system for a country house
Before choosing a suitable septic tank, the following aspects must be considered:
The number of people living in the house - the power of the entire device depends on this;
The material from which the septic tank is made - determines its durability and resistance to aggressive influences;
The relief of the area where the installation of the structure will be carried out and the height of the groundwater;
The complexity of the installation of a sewage treatment system - in terms of installation cost, septic tanks with a filtration field are in the lead, and biological treatment stations are most profitable in this regard - their capacity just needs to be buried in the ground;
Own budget.
On our website you can find contacts of companies specializing in septic tanks and autonomous sewers for country houses. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the Low-Rise Country exhibition of houses.
Video description
About septic tanks without pumping out on video:
Popular factory-assembled septic tanks
To make it easier to decide on a suitable device, the following is an overview of septic tanks for a country house:
Sprout mini
A simple and reliable option for private houses. The capacity of about 200 liters per day is enough for the stable operation of the sewage system when two people live in the house.
Septic tank "Rostok-Mini" in the context
It is completely made of polymer material without the use of metal inserts and has a capacity of 1000 liters. The one-piece construction of the purification system allows for complete tightness. Installation of this model of a septic tank will not cause difficulties, since it weighs less than 3 kilograms and has the shape of a cylinder. This design prevents groundwater from pushing it out of the soil while pumping out the contents. As for the cost, it is about 25,000 rubles;
Aster
This model of the purification system is very popular in the Russian market. It can be attributed to the premium types of septic tanks. Such structures are made of polymer materials and have good performance indicators, since the throughput is 1 cubic meter per day. Astra performs high-level wastewater treatment, thanks to the presence of anaerobic and aerobic filters. The option is designed for country houses, where no more than 5 people live. The disadvantages of such a purification system include its cost, which reaches about 80,000 rubles;
Installed septic tank "Astra"
Bioxy
It is a high-quality non-volatile septic tank made of polymer materials, which is quite popular among domestic buyers. It possesses performance and throughput indicators similar to the Astra model. This purification system is equipped with a compressor that ensures the movement of wastewater through the system, as well as a special pump unit that flushes the channels in an automatic mode. The disadvantages include frequent failure of additional equipment. The purchase price of such a septic tank is about 90,000 rubles;
Installation of septic tank "Bioxy"
This cleaning system is designed for servicing no more than 4 people. It is made of polymeric sheet materials. With an average performance, it is able to pass through itself about 200 liters of wastewater per day. This septic tank has a four-chamber structure, which gives it a high degree of filtration. Installation is carried out in places where the groundwater level is at around 2 meters and deeper. However, the range allows you to choose the right option for any area. The combination of price and quality allows the BCS sewerage system to compete with other models on the market. Its cost is 20,000 rubles;
The scheme of the septic tank "DKS"
Leader
The septic tank has a compact size, stable and reliable design. The body is made of special polyethylene. A high degree of wastewater treatment is achieved thanks to four chamber structures, each of which undergoes a certain processing process. A wide range of models allows you to serve 2-16 people daily, depending on the design. This septic tank requires cleaning the system once a year. The throughput capacity is 400-3000 liters per day, and the productivity is 0.2-3.6 cubic meters / day, it all depends on the chosen model. Cost - from 75,000 - 200,000 rubles;
Delivery of septic tank "Leader"
Tank
This septic tank is endowed with a specific appearance, and its outer shell has a ribbed structure, which contributes to better fixation in the soil after installing a country septic tank. The "Tank" type sewage treatment system is a three-chamber system of blocks and modules. Such a station does not need to pump out waste with a sewage machine, as it is completely autonomous. Due to its low cost and long service life, the septic tank is in great demand. The installation of the system is done manually and does not require pouring the foundation of the excavation with concrete. Designed for both seasonal use in summer cottages and permanent operation of country houses. Price - 40-80 thousand rubles;
The septic tank "Tank" has a specific recognizable shape
Tver
It is made of durable polymeric materials, which allows to reduce the weight of the entire structure, and stiffeners add reliability to it. A feature of this septic tank is the horizontal position of the tanks. The device has a high degree of wastewater treatment and is equipped with additional equipment that requires an electrical connection. Doesn't need constant care. Such a septic tank is suitable for any type of soil. Disadvantages include high cost and dependence on electricity. The price is 70,000 - 140,000 rubles;
Installed septic tank "Tver"
Topas
One of the leaders in the market of cleaning systems from the EcoDom company. It is distinguished by a high degree of purification (98%) due to a special four-chamber design, as well as the use of microorganism colonies as filters. The septic tank has compact dimensions and a rectangular body, which makes it easy to install. Installation can be carried out in any type of soil. The structure does not require frequent maintenance and waste pumping with a sewer truck. The range of models is wide and can satisfy the needs of both country houses and summer cottages, and large enterprises. The cost is 80,000 - 300,000 rubles;
What is needed for the installation of a septic tank "Topas"
Poplar
In the manufacture of polymeric materials that are resistant to temperature changes are used. Septic tanks of this type have a long service life, high productivity and throughput (up to 3300 liters per day). The capacity of the system reservoirs is up to 5200 liters. The disadvantage of such installations is dependence on electricity. Suitable for use in large country houses and industrial buildings. The price for the Topol septic tank is 70,000 - 170,000 rubles;
Two-unit septic tank "Topol"
Triton
It is made of a double layer of polymer material that is not susceptible to corrosion and decay products. This septic tank has a wide range of models. It is distinguished by a long service life, a high degree of sewage treatment and low cost. Requires cleaning every 1-2 years. Disadvantages: Requires installation of additional equipment and frequent replacement of filters. Ideal for a small holiday home. Prices vary depending on the model: 30,000 - 85,000 rubles;
Three-chamber septic tank "Triton"
Ecoline
Made of special durable polyethylene. Septic tanks of this type have a high efficiency of wastewater treatment. The volume of the models can vary from 1500 to 4800 liters. Suitable for seasonal use by a small group of people and permanent residence in a country house. It has a reliable and durable cylindrical construction. Such a cleaning system consists of 2-3 chambers. The lineup is represented by designs with different performance and throughput, which allows you to choose the right option for any need. Ecoline costs 55,000 rubles;
Double-hull septic tank "Ecoline"
Elgad C 1400
The best mini model, ideal for seasonal use in summer cottages. It is compact in size and stable in design. The capacity of this sewerage system is 1400 liters. This septic tank is designed for service up to 3 people. The body is made of polymer material, and its inner part is covered with a layer of anti-corrosion agent. Despite the tightness and integrity of the structure, such a cleaning system does not retain unpleasant odors well. The cost is about 35,000 rubles.
Septic tank "Elgad S 1400" and its modifications
This is not a complete rating of septic tanks for home - there are still quite a few models of such devices, both domestic and foreign, but in general their design, principle of operation and price do not differ from those listed.
Video description
A few more words about the choice of a septic tank in the video:
Conclusion
Depending on the budget, you can make a purification system yourself from available tools, or order a ready-made version from sales representatives or the manufacturer. The option of studying the ratings of the best septic tanks for a country house is not always the right choice, since you need to take into account all the features of your site and the requirements for it.
A properly selected and correctly installed septic tank will create the conditions necessary for a comfortable stay in a country house.
It is the most popular brand today. The installation is made of high-strength plastic, 15-16 cm thick, the structure is characterized by high strength and is designed to withstand increased loads, which is especially important when pressure is unstable in winter and summer. With proper operation, the equipment will work properly for over 50 years.
The mechanism of the septic tank operation consists in the step-by-step cleaning of the sewage system by settling and subsequent decomposition of the components with a biological filter with high productivity. The infiltrator allows you to correctly distribute the treated water in the soil.
Has a number of advantages:
- autonomy of work, non-volatility;
- a special shape reliably holds the septic tank at the desired level in the ground;
- ease of maintenance;
- high degree of purification;
- saving consumables;
- ease of installation - no concreting is required for the pit, the convenience of the design provides a smaller amount of earthwork;
- low cost.
With proper use of the equipment, cleaning can be done every 4-5 years. For permanent residence in the house, the manufacturer recommends cleaning the system with an intensity once a year.
2. Septic tank "Triton". The three-chamber design ensures proper removal of various suspensions and residues from the decomposition of biological materials from the material used, after which the purified water is supplied to the filtration surface. The septic tank is available in several models, for personal needs you can choose a device with a volume of 2 to 40 m 3.
With regular use of the system, it should be cleaned of solids twice a year. Proper operation of the equipment will allow it to be used for over 50 years. During installation, it is necessary to equip an "anchor" or a concrete tank, which will reliably fix the septic tank in the ground.
For small country houses, baths, you can use compact models - "Triton-mini", which ensure the processing of wastewater of a small volume.
3. Septic tank "TOPAS" refers to volatile septic tanks, for its functioning requires a constant supply of electricity. Sewage water treatment includes several stages:
- decomposition of organic matter;
- a qualitative reduction in the level of mineralization;
- removal of mechanical components.
The use of a septic tank "TOPAS" allows you to purify wastewater by 98%, such water can be suitable for irrigation of land.
The initial stage of cleaning takes place in the receiving chamber, where mechanical particles are deposited. In the next chamber, organic matter decomposes under the influence of active aerobic bacteria. The sludge masses that come along with the water flow are deposited in the next tank. From there, the water is either directed to exit the system or returned for further use.
TOPAS has important advantages:
- automated operating principle of the device;
- effective wastewater treatment;
- lack of noise and unpleasant odor during operation;
- low power consumption;
- compact size.
Depending on the water consumption and the number of residents, you can purchase different models of the septic tank.
4. Station of biological treatment UNILOS "Astra"... Deep cleaning stations are produced by the SBM-Group company, they combine two types of cleaning - mechanical and biological, effectively destroy pollution from the sewage system and preserve the ecological safety of the territory. The stations have several cameras and are characterized by important advantages:
- Simple installation method. The stations are delivered to the site assembled; no construction equipment is required for installation.
- Durability and reliability. The station body is made of durable polypropylene, which provides resistance to mechanical and chemical influences. The service life exceeds 50 years.
- Automated working principle.
- Economical use of electricity.
- The system is cleaned of sludge particles using a drainage pump, no more than once every six months.
YUNILOS stations are represented by a large range of models, modifications differ from the length of the pipeline and the depth of occurrence. Insulated models are also available that can be used in low temperatures.
5. Station of deep cleaning BioDeka. The equipment provides a multi-level cleaning system - mechanical, biological and chemical. The station is suitable for use in cottages, private houses, country cottages, large industrial facilities. It should be installed for a number of reasons:
- provides a high degree of cleaning;
- there are no unpleasant odors during operation;
- suitable for use in any type of soil and any climatic zone;
- effectively cleans large volumes of waste water of any consistency.
All presented brands have proven themselves in the market, have a well thought-out design and a fairly high degree of sewage cleaning. Therefore, the choice remains only with the buyer.
The times when it was possible to simply use an outdoor toilet in summer cottages and in country houses are long gone. Modern hygienic requirements have grown significantly, and now it is necessary to strictly monitor the safety when handling household waste. Good septic tanks help to solve the problem, but in order not to be mistaken with the choice, you need to carefully study their nuances.
Peculiarities
Connection to centralized sewerage systems is not possible everywhere. Removing sewage and household waste through a septic tank is much more practical and reliable than using a banal cesspool. Speaking about the advantages and disadvantages of septic tanks, it should be noted that only one circumstance can cause certain inconveniences. This is the need to pay a certain amount of money even in the case when the device is made by hand.
The principle of operation of a storage device is simple:
- waste enters the container;
- as they fill up, call a car with a pump and a sewage tank;
- for some time, the emptied container is again ready to receive waste.
As for the apparatus of the second type, it works in a fundamentally different way. Simple accumulation of contaminants is replaced by their filtration, absorption and thorough neutralization. The complication of the design in this case is fully justified, since it allows the most effective solution to the problem. When choosing products, it is recommended to take into account how many residents are in the house or can visit it. Also of no small importance is such a circumstance as the type of plumbing equipment and the intensity of its work.
Regardless of the specific design, it is necessary to achieve a high level of wastewater treatment so that it can be discharged into the ground without the threat of clogging. Usually, the sewage stream entering through the sewer is directed to the initial chamber, where it is separated into fractions. This leads to the fact that the largest solids settle to the bottom, and the relatively fine suspension gets to the next chamber. Specially selected anaerobic microorganisms deal with them there. As a result of biological influence, fermentation occurs, methane begins to be released.
The passages to the septic tank compartments are covered with special devices (water seals). Thanks to this solution, the nuisance characteristic of simple cesspools and sedimentation tanks is eliminated - the spread of a bad smell everywhere.
The third chamber also plays a role, in which, with the help of a special filter, contaminants that have overcome the first two stages are captured. The filter is assisted by aerobic bacteria that live freely in an oxygen environment. A similar device is typical for any septic tank, be it a Russian or imported product.
Completely finished specimens, after delivery to the site, are lowered into a pre-formed pit. Those effluents that managed to pass through three stages of purification are completely safe in chemical and biological terms. You can safely redirect them into the filtration field and into the soil. A wastewater treatment plant complying with SNiP standards operates successfully even in the most severe climatic conditions. Severe frosts and snowstorms are not terrible for him, and some versions do not depend on power supply at all.
If for some reason factory products do not suit you or there is a desire to save money, the land owners can make a septic tank themselves.
For this, completely ready-made tanks are supplied, but with the difference that their installation will not be carried out by a team of specialists, but by the owners themselves. It is recommended to choose the strongest materials that can successfully withstand the aggressive action of sewage waste. Before self-installation of septic tanks, drawings should be prepared in order to eliminate errors and shortcomings. To accomplish the task, sometimes 3-6 concrete rings are enough.
How to choose and do it yourself?
When working on an autonomous sewage system, there are no trifles, because even the slightest mistakes and shortcomings can lead to serious consequences. It is advisable to consider first the choice of the finished product, and then designing it with your own hands. In both cases, you need to take into account:
- how much waste is accumulated per day;
- whether they live in the house all year round or only in the warm season;
- the amount of plumbing used;
- the presence of groundwater and their height, chemical properties;
- the amount that the owners can allocate for the purchase of plumbing equipment;
- characteristics of the soil on the site.
When evaluating the properties of any septic tank, be it home-made or industrial, it is better to start analyzing them with the performance of the device. This parameter is closely related to the number of working chambers and their dimensions. Minor wastewater streams can also be passed through single-chamber septic tanks with a preliminary cleaning unit. Household waste in this case will be cleaned quite effectively. But if the total flow is over 1 cubic meter. m. in 24 hours, a more productive model is needed.
By its design, such a device is often a simple drive, systematically cleaned by oneself or when calling a sewage machine. For permanently used houses, such solutions are unacceptable. The active accumulation of waste will provoke significant costs for the services of sewers. Increased efficiency is characteristic of biological purification complexes.
Anaerobic wastewater treatment methods inevitably generate gases that are hazardous to humans. Therefore, you need to choose only kits with a fan riser. When choosing a suitable solution, you also need to find out:
- what body material will be optimal;
- whether it is necessary to place the tank horizontally or vertically in the soil;
- how many cleaning chambers are required.
A simple installation of concrete sedimentation tanks from blocks of typical dimensions or by pouring concrete into the formwork is available to almost everyone. The use of ready-made elements allows you not to be afraid of problems with the quality of parts manufacturing, but it increases the cost of construction. For the transportation of concrete rings, powerful transport is needed, and their installation is carried out by special lifting machines. Self-priming is more economical, but it will take noticeably more time. It will be necessary to operate the sump only after the cement mixture has completely set.
Reinforced concrete rings are difficult to seal, their suitability for repair remains in question. Such parts are very cumbersome and heavy in design. But concrete products are more resistant than plastic ones to the pressure of soil and soil water.
You should not choose budget septic tanks with metal tanks, because the savings will turn out to be illusory. It will be necessary to constantly treat the surface of the septic tank with anti-corrosion mixtures.
Metal blocks are preferred where geometrically complex overflow pipe assemblies are required. For the installation of septic tanks made of metal, welding is used. Connections to plastic pipes are made using flange systems, complemented by rubber collars. The strength and considerable weight of the steel bodies helps to avoid being pushed out by the water circulating in the soil. In many cases, plastic septic tanks are used for a cottage or a simple private house.
Plastic elements can be assembled by hand, and the tightness of the joints created with the help of cuffs is quite guaranteed. There is no need for complex protection against various substances.
After installation, plastic tanks are filled with water, this will help equalize the pressure inside and outside.
For your information: the industry produces a number of products that are characterized by increased rigidity. This allows dry septic tanks to be buried.
When choosing a device, you should pay attention to how the stock will be organized. The direction of the liquid by gravity implies the need to lay pipes at a slope. The chambers of accumulative or filtration septic tanks are equipped with stable waterproofing or are made of materials impermeable to water. When constructing a cleaning system with your own hands, you need to add overflow pipes to the septic tanks, which transfer water to the filtering area. The nozzles must be supplemented with vertical segments continuously immersed in water.
Both in self-production and when buying a ready-made kit, different methods of final soil cleaning can be used. Widely used:
- filtration wells with a layer of drainage material at the bottom;
- tunnel infiltration devices;
- underground clearing "fields" where perforated pipes are laid.
Choosing the right approach is not easy, because you have to take into account the required depth of wastewater treatment, the category of soils, the height of the location of soil waters and their chemical aggressiveness. When one of the chambers is set aside for aerobic microscopic cleaning, it is supplemented with aerators, so you have to take care of a stable power supply. An air pipe is laid between the parts of the septic tanks to compensate for the uneven pressure in them.
Regardless of the design features, hatches will have to be made for inspecting and cleaning containers.
Views
A septic tank for a summer residence with 2-3 residents can be made according to the cesspool option; it is the most economical type in terms of water consumption. The container must be very durable, and the higher its capacity (within reasonable limits), the more practical the device turns out to be.
For permanent residence with a small amount of effluent generated, it is preferable overflow systems... Such equipment performs partial cleaning of waste, and it will be necessary to empty the tank with the help of special equipment on average once every two or three years. In addition to such septic tanks, soil filtering fields are made of rocks that are permeable to water.
The advantages of this solution are:
- ease of service manipulations;
- long intervals from one cleaning to another;
- increasing the efficiency of waste use.
But septic tanks, which have additional cleaning in the soil, cannot be used in clayey soil with insufficient permeability to liquid. In addition, this design is incompatible with the high standing of the first horizon. For a private house, in many cases, more powerful and advanced sewage treatment plants are used. Overall performance is determined by the number of cameras; there is no need to make calculations when choosing a device, the number of tenants served is written on the packages.
An autonomous storage (non-volatile) septic tank is always cheaper than a power-dependent one. It's not just about operating costs, but also about the necessary basic components. The lack of connection to the mains allows you not to equip the septic tank with pumps, compressor systems and fittings. But the valves and hoses will be used on a case-by-case basis.
It is worth considering that if it is necessary to process waste as deeply as possible (for use or as prescribed by the sanitary authorities), you will have to completely abandon non-volatile solutions.
The increased efficiency of devices connected to the electrical network turns into the need to constantly withstand strictly specified conditions.
Volatile devices are best mounted on a turnkey basis with the help of specialists. Sewerage for country houses can be common for several buildings. The discharge should be planned in such a way that it is above the soil water horizon. The hatch of the simplest accumulation system rises 10-15 cm above the soil. In order to call a pumping machine less often, it is worth choosing a product with a capacity for a month and with a reserve of at least 1/5.
Non-volatile complexes are selected in such a way that the full capacity makes it possible to absorb the volume of wastewater in 72 hours and there is still a spare volume of about 30-40%. Normal operation of overflow devices implies that the liquid fills at most ¾ of the entire tank cavity. In any case, active devices are equipped with ventilation systems. For the system to work odorlessly, the outlet must be located at a height of 300-500 cm. The tanks are cleaned from accumulated sludge every few months.
Local cleansing stations help to minimize the intensity of bad odors.
Compared to simple septic tanks, such devices are more expensive, since waste treatment is carried out not only by biological and mechanical methods. Be sure to use, in addition to infiltrators, also means of chemical treatment. For places that are not permanent, such devices cannot be used. But the level of remaining contaminants is at most 5% of the original value.
Clarified water can be used for:
- irrigation of gardens, vegetable gardens and fields;
- filling a landscape reservoir;
- conducting construction and repair work.
When there is no need for such an application of treated effluents, they are allowed to be poured into natural reservoirs and various ditches. Sewerage facilities can withstand several hours during a power outage, but not more. Therefore, it will be necessary to supplement the treatment plant with backup power systems, even if the power networks in a particular area work quite reliably.
In any case, the fewer seams in a volatile or autonomous septic tank, the more efficient and stable it works.
Material
- Polyethylene structures do not have seams at all, so cracking and leaks are excluded. Synthetic material does not rot and does not corrode. Multilayer polyethylene works stably even in frosts of 30 degrees. Fiberglass blocks are considered to be of no less quality. They are tougher than polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride, but the overall cost is much higher. Plastic is used mainly for commercial properties or for several private houses at once. Many fiberglass structures are capable of meeting the needs of up to 200 residents at the same time.
- Metal products (almost always steel) usually have two parts. The internal volume of the welded body contains an additional plastic tank. Even the best steel itself is rarely used, because it can easily lose its tightness, and if the outer layer is damaged, corrosion will quickly develop.
- Combined devices (metal + plastic) can have up to four sectors for sequential cleaning of incoming effluents.
- Depending on the solutions of the designers, the walls are made either continuous with special holes or with overflow protrusions. Brick blocks popular in many respects because waste material can be used in their construction. At the same time, ensuring the tightness of the walls is a serious problem. The building stone initially has many gaps and gaps. To cover these holes, special sealants or penetrating mastics are usually used. Brick septic tanks are beneficial for economic reasons; when working on them, complex machines or professional skills are not required. Laying in one brick is allowed. A more reliable solution is the choice of concrete structures, they are very durable. But there is also a weak point - the need for sophisticated equipment.
- For the manufacture of a septic tank, it is allowed to use both monolithic and prefabricated concrete... Monolithic elements must be poured into the formwork after the preparation of the pit. As with the use of bricks, the tightness of the joints must be assessed as carefully as possible.
Metal structures are used the least often, because the negative qualities almost always outweigh the positive aspects.
Analyzing the properties of various solutions, most experts prefer plastic septic tanks.
Returning to fiberglass, we can also name such advantages as:
- operational period up to 50 years;
- resistance to severe cold and putrefactive processes;
- immunity to rodent attacks;
- the ability to pump out all waste in 60 minutes;
- the ability to use salvo discharges of a significant amount of wastewater;
- protection from the ingress of foreign objects;
- suitability for preservation for the winter without special preparation.
As for the use of other materials at hand, such steps are not approved by professionals. They can be used only in small dachas that are visited only occasionally. Barrels, tires, old tanks and the like are used as storage devices of this kind. A surface septic tank should be installed where a lot of soil water is concentrated, and at the very surface of the soil. If these problems do not exist, it is recommended to use underground options.
Dimensions (edit)
It is important to take into account not only the properties of individual materials, but also the size of the septic tanks. When calculating sizes, one must not forget that the volume is calculated as the total volume of all constituent parts; it is calculated from the bottom to the pipe entry. In the first compartment, counting is carried out from the lowest point to the overflow device, in the final compartment - to the place where the liquid is discharged into drainage or filtration structures. It should be borne in mind that in the initial chambers the average volume of solid accumulations reaches 1/5 of the height. Therefore, it is subtracted if they only want to know the space where the liquid is.
According to building codes, even for miniseptics, the daily volume of water per user is 200 liters or 0.2 m3. The smallest storage facility is expected to be operated without draining for 72 hours, which makes it possible to compensate for various incidents and problems. When designing or choosing a solution, it should be remembered that water can be discharged into the soil layers after at least 14 days. Only under this condition will anaerobic bacteria and a sump be able to completely neutralize liquid waste. Formally, it turns out that one person will have to put a reservoir with a capacity of 2.8 cubic meters. m.
In practice, the situation is different; rarely, when the standard consumption of the standard volume of water is reached, sometimes it is half as much. This is the case in seldom used houses or in thrifty people. And the rise in the cost of water resources is forcing more and more to conserve them. The problem is that when small septic tanks are found, sanitary authorities can issue orders for the installation of more powerful systems. And they will be completely right even from a purely practical standpoint!
The reason is simple - the effluent contains many substances that are poorly processed or not assimilated by bacteria at all. Most often these are heavy fats, and therefore only the intake of a large amount of water makes it possible to achieve normal clarification. This is important not only for compliance with hygiene requirements, but also for keeping the equipment intact and safe. If the filter elements and layers are overfilled with substances that are difficult to decompose, they will lose their capacity. You will immediately have to redo the entire storage and filtering infrastructure.
On the other hand, you need to choose the volume of the chamber, focusing on the capacity of the sewage transport tanks. Small cleaning tanks that come to the call can take no more than 3.75 cubic meters. m. liquid. It is worth thinking about the depth at which the sludge pump can work, it does not exceed 3 m. These moments determine the linear parameters of the septic tank inlet chamber. For sedimentation and microbiological improvement to occur more efficiently, it is recommended to use at least two-chamber complexes whenever possible.
The standardized height of the rings is 90 cm, and with an inner diameter of 1000 mm, their volume is 0.7 m3. If the diameter grows 1.5 times, the volume of the rings already reaches 1.59 m3, and two-meter structures have a volume of 2.83 cubic meters. m. As for the deepening of drain pipes at the inlet to the septic tank, it can be quite different. Excessive lowering is undesirable, it is better to strengthen the insulation layer. But there are other considerations, such as the need to hold the pipes sufficiently firmly.
Removing septic tanks from houses by more than 10 m is impractical, and the minimum slope of the pipeline is 3%. This indicator allows you not to encounter freezing of pipes and reduce the risk of filling them with solid particles. The average depth of the sewer pipeline reaches 50 cm (together with the insulating block). As a result, the depth of the overflow between the first and second compartments is 700 mm. The upper insulation is done with EPS boards at least 5 cm thick.
Taking two meter rings, it will be possible to achieve a typical volume of 2.7 m3 with a pair of compartments. If you take concrete products one and a half times larger in size, you can get by with a single-chamber design. But as already mentioned, one should not chase simplicity here. It should be borne in mind that each pipe introduced into the septic tank must end with downward-facing fittings. Tees open upwards are also used (this helps to reduce debris build-up).
Colors
The color of the septic tank can be very different, but in any case, flashy and annoying shades should be avoided. Concrete blocks look good on their own. It is recommended to use blue, white or black tones to ensure optimal appearance. Paint for any septic tank must be resistant to harmful wastewater, damage from moving soils. Any compound that is most durable and stable will do the job.
Manufacturers and reviews
The production of septic tanks is being improved year after year. Modern technologies allow you to solve any task. Leading positions in various ratings are occupied by:
- "Topaz";
- "Mole";
- "Tank";
- "Triton";
- "Cedar";
- Ecoline.
Version "Tank" designed to combine mechanical and biological methods for clarifying domestic wastewater. The very first fragment of the septic tank is a sump, the initially purified liquid moves to the next chamber. There is an auxiliary settling and suspended particles are precipitated. The third block "Tank" contains beneficial microorganisms - this increases the efficiency, but also increases the volume of the device.
The Triton brand has such competitive advantages as:
- low cost;
- the ability (with the help of infiltrators) to leave only 2% of the dirt in the water;
- purchase of models with a variety of practical properties;
- complete elimination of unpleasant odors;
- strict compliance with sanitary standards;
- long period of operation in normal mode.
Problems may be associated with the lack of an infiltrator or aeration fields. If there are no such opportunities, the efficiency of the septic tank turns out to be insufficient, and with a significant increase in the flow of sewage, it will not cope. Design "Topaz" has excellent economy, it works through aeration and the use of microorganisms. In the normal mode, it is possible to purify the liquid by 98%. The developers have taken care of solid tightness and excellent anti-corrosion characteristics.
To install "Topaz", you will have to prepare the foundation pit carefully. In a good recess, there are always special stiffeners, this allows you to guarantee zero risk of deformation. The first compartment is able to separate solid matter from the effluent, only then the mixture is purified using oxygen. Purified water can be widely used. But Topaz is highly dependent on electrical energy.
Firm "DSK" tried to make three-chamber products, where two segments become sedimentation tanks, and the third is equipped with a biological filter. The decomposed and clarified sewage is transferred to the soil filtering layer.
Company Unilos focused on increasing the mechanical strength of its products, creating stiffeners on them and applying molecular welding. The device of this brand of devices allows you to do without moving parts. The carefully designed 20mm thick wall easily resists ground pressure. The effluent flows sequentially through the primary settling tank, the aerobic plant and the secondary settling tank. The release of water from pollutants by 95% allows it to be used for irrigation of agricultural plants. The disadvantages of the system are dependence on the mains and instability in the cold. Moreover, such blocks are very expensive.
Septic tanks Ecoline according to the manufacturer, they are the best choice for seasonal dacha use. With proper installation, regular use is allowed. There are only two chambers in the system with no electrical components. The entrance chamber is much larger than the exit chamber, which is responsible for gravitational clarification. Additional cleaning is done in the soil.
Ecoline's efficiency does not allow us to consider their septic tanks the optimal solution. The fact is that the amount of remaining pollution is as much as 40%. In addition, it will not be possible to use such systems in places with an increased level of soil water. Without enhanced cleaning by other means, there is a high probability of contamination of soil horizons with microorganisms. The equipment of the "Kedr" brand certainly requires cleaning with a special technique.
Primary filtration is carried out at the inlet, and the water purified from sediment passes to the second block, where it is clarified deeper. Further, the stream moves up and down, reaching the microflora fixed motionlessly. The final compartment is responsible for the accumulation of effluents.
Finnish manufacturers Uponor and Green Rock supply products of superior quality and outstanding reliability. The superior characteristics of genuine Scandinavian goods, as opposed to counterfeits, do not allow them to be sold cheaply.
There are three main sub-types in the Uponor selection.
- Products "Sako" differ in partial upholding of impurities and autonomy. A filtration section in the soil must be performed without fail, otherwise the surrounding area will be a very unpleasant place.
- For summer cottages, you can also put products of the series "Bio"(with enhanced chemical and microbiological water treatment). Perfectionists will be pleased with Bio Clean products, which are very compact and easy to use.
- "Green Rock" supplies only septic tanks with multi-stage cleaning. All equipment of this brand combines the efforts of special reagents and microflora. This technique allows both to deploy the local sewerage system from scratch and significantly improve the existing one.
The "Bio" device requires periodic disposal of used filter blocks and special reagents, replacing them with fresh portions. Products of the Sako group do not resist cold well enough. In the most northern regions, it will be necessary to either lay insulation or choose equipment that is more stable for the winter.
Finnish goods are made using seamless technology. This is much more reliable than the Russian approach, which involves joining prefabricated parts.
Successful examples and options
In addition to choosing the right brands and models of septic tanks, you need to pay attention to the components that complement the purification system. The use of devices with a biofilter (colonies of anaerobic organisms) eliminates the need for an electrical connection. Microbes can get the energy they need through the decomposition of organic matter without oxygen. The carbohydrates and various amino acids contained in the sewage are broken down into low molecular weight compounds that are safe for the natural environment. An anaerobic biological filter is designed as a plastic container that is divided into pieces of a certain type.
A biological purifier necessarily contains an inert material with a large specific area, which makes it possible to combine the development of microbial colonies and additional mechanical filtration. Organic matter decomposes when passing through the biofilter into the simplest soluble substances and silt deposits. The sludge will have to be removed, but in many cases it is used as a fertilizer.
Typical fillers:
- expanded clay;
- plastic brushes or nets;
- granular polymers of a strictly defined fraction.
Usually, the distribution of microbes in biological filters is made uniform over the surface, and if they are replenished in a timely manner, it will be possible to ensure stable operation throughout the year. Such filtering does not require any complex technical skills to operate. The systems operate for a long time and odors do not penetrate outside. Security is fully guaranteed.
In addition to organic filtration, septic tanks are often equipped with a grease trap. In a gravity drain, fatty deposits become a serious hazard, increasing the likelihood of blockages and traffic jams. Fat catchers are necessarily installed at production facilities and in places where many people live. Private homeowners do not have such prescriptions, but it is best to defend their system ahead of time before problems arise. The design and operating principle are pretty simple.
When water enters the inlet pipes, filling of the first chamber begins. As it fills, the fat particles rise to the top, as they are lighter than water. Further, the fat reaches a special tray, where it gradually accumulates. The liquid freed from it moves into another compartment, which ensures the residual breakdown of fats. For this purpose, the most powerful and effective methods are used, and when the equipment finishes working, water is poured down the drain.
The first sector is saturated with water-insoluble particles. Therefore, the grease trap will need to be removed, washed and cleaned regularly. Industrial appliances are easier to clean, there are special drainage pumps or shut-off valves in the bottom for this purpose. The placement of a coarse filter in front of the catching mechanism helps to reduce the likelihood of early contamination of the catching mechanism. Traps are most effectively used, if fat is heated more than water, then it will dissolve in it and float.
Separation of waste is sometimes done by a physicochemical method. The bottom line is the use of special reagents capable of binding single particles into large collections. Such agglomerates can more easily be removed from the liquid by mechanical filters. But even with precipitation treatment in special chambers or sedimentation tanks, chemical pre-treatment helps to improve the result. The flotation method involves the use of special compressors that supply air bubbles to the cleaning chambers.
Fats, in contact with air bubbles, form special films. Bubbles go up. This technique works best when drains are heated significantly, in which the fat is practically dissolved. The mechanical technique consists in the use of special membranes with finely dispersed cells. The pace of work turns out to be too slow, the filter quickly becomes dirty with a powerful intake of fats.
But on the other hand, the overall efficiency of fat extraction will be very high. The solution is suitable for filtration of effluents regardless of their temperature and degree of dissolution. The coalescing approach relies on the ability of fats to be pulled into certain structures and defended. The emulsified fat in the filter chamber, being subjected to gravity and surface tension, collects on the surface. At this point, mechanical devices (manual or automatic) can assemble it.
There is another approach - the use of centrifuges. Differences in the molecular weight of water and fats cause different moment of inertia. Therefore, when rotating in a centrifuge, the separation of various substances occurs. The body of any grease trap is made sealed, but it can always be disassembled. The inlet and outlet nozzles are connected to the device.
The lid is made in a removable or opening version, this allows:
- maintain the system;
- remove fat;
- evaluate the performance of the system.
The housings are divided into at least two segments, which allow them to receive drains, filter them and dispense clean liquid into the drain pipe. Regardless of the design solution, mechanical filtration, an intake apparatus and a liquid level indicator are used. Manual collection of accumulated dirt is practical for a private house, where high performance is still not needed.
Plastic grease traps are used when a small amount of wastewater needs to be neutralized, and therefore they are ideal for domestic purposes. Perfect environmental safety and ease of maintenance allow you not to encounter problems.
Casting and molding of plastics gives a wide range of all kinds of shapes. Fastening is made to the pipe itself (in a compact design). Stand-alone devices work well for maximum efficiency and are easy and comfortable to use. In addition, the capacity of the dirt compartment is larger in self-contained units. Fiberglass products are similar to simple plastic ones in their structural variety.
The susceptibility to all the main reagents found in everyday life and in drains is very low in fiberglass. The special composition does not affect the lightness, however, the rigidity to mechanical damage is very high. Grease traps made of stainless steel are considered to be the strongest and most stable, effectively resisting chemical and physical destructors. This technique is mainly in demand in the industrial sector, because it tolerates strong heat well. Disadvantage - it is impossible to make a steel grease trap with streamlined contours or with a non-standard configuration; Fees for metal appliances are higher than other options.
There is one more question - is it worth choosing a two-chamber or single-chamber septic tank. No such device is capable of working on its own; additional cleaning in the ground is required. These are the instructions of building codes and regulations adopted in the Russian Federation. Septic tanks perform mechanical cleaning of sediment, ferment the sediment itself, make it a mineral composition suitable for fertilizing farmland. The water will be accurately purified in the required way in one or several chambers.
But the handling of the sediment is a more delicate matter. In a single section, the sedimentation of suspended matter is nonuniform; closer to the inlet, this process is more intense. When the septic tank is divided into several sectors, this allows you to collect the key mass of the substance in the very first compartment. Then the clogging of water in the subsequent parts will be excluded and the cleaning process will be simplified. In addition, the ecological characteristics of the final flow will be the best.
The more sections, the more gentle the operating mode of the filter well, underground filtration fields and cleaning trenches will be.
It is almost impossible to clean the soil filtering complexes; you will have to spend a lot of money on their renewal. Therefore, the increase in the complexity of the septic tank has a positive effect on the convenience and comfort of consumers. It is important to consider that the equipment of a septic tank with microbiological cleaning forces the use of only detergents that are safe for microorganisms. In addition, at temperatures of 4 degrees and below, the activity of microbes is zero, and therefore the cleaning efficiency drops sharply.
When choosing the point where the treatment plant will be delivered, a number of sanitary restrictions must be taken into account.
- You cannot bring them 5 m closer to the foundations of a residential building. The gap to the foundations of non-residential buildings and their ground structures is at least 1 m.
- The distance to the well or its replacement well, drilled in clay soil, is at least 20 m.If the earth is composed of sandy rocks, this gap increases to 50 m.
- You can bring the septic tank closer to the road by at most 5 m, and at least 100 cm should remain to any type of fences.
It is very important to prepare the place in such a way that a car with a pump can drive up there. Alternatively, it is practiced to equip the tank with a fecal pump. The sludge extracted outside can be used as a vegetable and garden fertilizer. A capacity of 150-200 liters for each tenant allows you to confidently use bathrooms and toilets, a washing machine, and wash dishes.
The gap from the cover to the wastewater mirror should be the same as the depth of soil freezing. The entire calculated volume must be placed below this mark. The higher the temperature, the better the sewage will be processed by the microbes. The geometric shape of the septic tank does not really matter; it is not reflected in the level of efficiency and the quality of wastewater treatment in it. But there is another consideration - round equipment saves construction materials.
When using bricks, a rounded structure will help you use 10-15% fewer blocks. The rounding makes it possible to better transfer the load arising from ground movements. It is advisable to make monolithic two-chamber systems in the form of a square or a rectangle. Such forms make it easier to obtain the formwork where concrete is to be poured. Filling elements can be made with your own hands, and this is only slightly more expensive than simple brick elements.
When plank boards are placed on both sides, the pits must be made 0.4 - 0.5 m wider than the size of the tank (together with the walls). If it is planned to pour the solution into the gaps of the soil and formwork, the excavation is carried out according to the external dimensions of the septic tank. When calculating the cost of work, you need to take into account the payment for the removal of the extracted land. Plane amplification is quite possible to do. But the volumetric reinforcing frames will be completely redundant for a septic tank, they will only complicate the installation and make it more expensive.
How to make a septic tank in the country with your own hands, see below.