There are three options to decide between when it comes to a method of removing wastewater from the home. Holding tanks and septic tanks are similar, and may sound like the same thing to those that have not learned the difference. A sewer system would be one other plumbing choice, and ultimately the decision remains up to the homeowner to decide, after weighing the differences and what would best suit. All of the above are a method of filtering, cleaning and removing or draining household waste.
Sewer systems are provided and funded by the local government, which makes them the most economical option. They are low effort and low cost. Out of sight, out of mind, and there is no personal maintenance required. One downside would be the ecological aspect, since all of the sewer systems in one vicinity connect to a central drainage field, this will leave a large footprint of waste in one area. They may also be more likely to become clogged with debris that gets flushed or rinsed down the sink or bathtub, such as grease or hair. Homeowners may be required to pay fees or taxes in order to cover the expense of cleaning and unclogging such problems.
Septic tanks work by allowing the solids, liquids and gases of the waste to separate, after which they are pumped out into a septic field, which is underground and it leaches into the earth. The benefit of a septic tank is there is less effort required to maintain it, as it does not have to be pumped or cleaned out often, unless there are issues. The negative aspect again would be the environmental downside, with it still allowing waste to spread and enter the ground, and does not contain it. Septic tanks are also not a funded system, so they must be paid for and maintained by the home.
Holding tanks filter and contain household waste, which is stored in a large tank, holding up to a couple thousand gallons. Since the tank will fill up, and can overflow or leak if left unchecked, this will require the home to pump out the tank regularly. Most holding tanks come with an alarm or some form of alerting that they are due for maintenance. More effort is required to keep a holding tank maintained, which does increase the cost, along with it also being privately installed. The biggest positive about this kind of system would be that it keeps waste and drainage from entering the environment.
All three of these kinds of systems can end up having issues, which are fairly easily avoided if properly maintained to avoid an emergency. Many businesses are available to service, pump or clean any of the plumbing in all homes. Pumping out tanks regularly and when needed is vital to the septic system health. Residential service, and commercial service are the most widely needed, with business service coming in after. Making an appointment to keep the plumbing clean and working is important.
Hanover Septic Tank Service 