A septic tank is an essential component of any sewer system in households, cabins, and other buildings that are not connected to a public sewer system. While professionally installed septic tanks can be expensive, it is possible to construct homemade septic tanks that are cost-effective, eco-friendly, and can meet your household’s basic needs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to construct a homemade septic tank.
Title Constructing a Homemade Septic Tank: A Detailed How-To Guide
Introduction:
Materials Required:
– 2 plastic 55-gallon drums or large trash cans
– Saw or hole saw
– 4-inch toilet flange (2)
– PVC pipe (4 ft)
– Baffle (optional)
– Gravel (4 ft)
– Sand (4 ft)
– Synthetic carpet for covering the tank
– Measuring tape
– Shovel or excavator
– Ruler and marker
Step 1: Selecting the Tank Location
Identify and mark the location for the septic tank. Excavate the soil with a shovel or rent an excavator to dig a hole that measures 4 feet wide, 26 feet long, and 3 feet deep. The size of the hole can be adjusted based on the number of people using the system. Ensure the location is at least 10 feet away from water sources and 25 feet away from buildings.
Step 2: Constructing the Tank
Use a saw or hole saw to cut a hole in the top of each drum that is the same size as a toilet flange’s outside measurements. Securely attach the toilet flanges to the holes using screws. Cut a 4-inch hole in the first drum on the opposite side of the hole in the top.
Step 3: Connecting the Two Drums
Place the first drum with the cut-out hole in the excavation pit. Connect the second drum to the first by inserting it upside down and attaching it firmly to the top drum’s toilet flange. Place a baffle made of PVC pipe or other appropriate material between the two drums to separate the incoming and outgoing waste. Alternatively, skip the baffle step and use two drums.
Step 4: Location of the Drain Field
Dig 2 holes in the side of the second drum at 45-degree angles from the center of the hole on top. Measure and mark a location on the ground next to the septic tank that is 4 ft by 26 ft for the drain field. Excavate the soil and dig trenches that are 1 ft wide and 2 ft deep.
Step 5: Assembling the System
Attach a 4-ft PVC pipe on the second drum’s third hole and fix it to the trench’s end using a T-joint. Attach a 4-ft PVC pipe to the first drum’s hole and insert it into the second drum through the hole. Cover both drums with synthetic carpet for protection and to prevent soil from entering the system.
Step 6: Preparing the Drain Field
Prepare the drain field by filling it with gravel, followed by sand, leaving a 1 ft gap from the surface. Cover the drain field with synthetic carpet and fill the trench with soil. Do not compact the soil, as septic systems require proper aeration for effective bacteria action.
Conclusion:
Constructing a homemade septic tank is a cost-effective solution for households that are not connected to public sewer systems. By following these simple steps and using readily available materials, you can construct a functional septic tank that should properly take care of your household waste without any hassle. Remember to adhere to environmental and local regulations and do a regular maintenance check to ensure the system functionally correctly and maintains a healthy environment. [1][2]
h holes drilled into it from the second tank to a spot outside of the digging area.
8. Add septic treatment: Add professional septic treatment powder or tablets to the system according to the instructions provided. This will ensure that the wastewater is broken down and treated before discharging.
Conclusion:
Building a homemade septic tank is an affordable and viable option for those who live in remote areas and do not have access to public sewer systems. Proper care and maintenance are required to ensure that the system functions optimally. This how-to guide provides a step-by-step procedure for building a homemade septic tank, written in a factual, matter-of-fact tone. [1][2]
