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What Size Septic Tank Do I Need?


What Size Septic Tank Do I Need?


The size of the septic tank you need depends on a number of factors, including the number of bedrooms in your home, the estimated number of occupants, and local regulations and requirements in your area. . It is important to consult with a professional septic system designer or installer who can assess your specific needs and make the most accurate recommendation.


With that said, here are some general guidelines for estimating septic tank size based on the number of compartments:

  • 1-2 chambers: 750-900 gallons (2840-3410 liters)

  • 3 chambers: 1,000 gallons (3,785 liters)

  • 4 chambers: 1,200 gallons (4,540 liters)

  • Over 5 compartments: more than 1,500 gallons (5,680+ liters)


Keep in mind that these numbers are approximate and may vary depending on other factors, such as soil type, water use, and local regulations. It's best to consult a professional to determine the right size for your particular situation.


Tips for Choosing the Right Septic Tank


Here are some tips to consider when purchasing a new septic tank to ensure your sizing needs are met.


  • Talk to a Pro: Remember that all of the above measurements and data points are just a starting point or an average guide. Your property is unique and so are your waste management needs. Start the process by discussing your options with an experienced professional from a local septic tank installation company.

  • Don't overspend: If you live in a three-bedroom home with a family of four or five, you don't need to build a septic tank too large to service a six-bedroom home with a family of nine or five. ten people. That said, it's never a bad idea to have a wiggle room here, just in case your family grows over time.

  • Track water usage: Not only will the occupants of your home determine the size of a septic tank needed, but also how much water they use per person. Keep water usage data accurate and up-to-date, and make it available to your installers.

  • Don't forget the frequency of septic tank pumping: Septic tanks need to be pumped regularly to ensure efficient operation and prolong their life. Septic tank pumps cost about $400. The recommended average frequency is every three to five years. Larger tanks have more people that need to be pumped more often than smaller tanks that only serve one or two people.

Why Is Septic System Size Important?

If your home's septic tank is too small for your needs, it will not be able to handle the amount of wastewater escaping your home. It can cause all kinds of problems like stink, floods, blockages. However, the most common outcome if the septic tank is too small is the pressure created causing the water to escape before being effectively washed away. This means that the solid waste in the septic tank will not be completely decomposed and will accumulate more quickly leading to the possibility of fullness and blockage. If the septic tank is too large, it will not work if the right amount of wastewater does not flow out. If your septic tank is too big for your home, it doesn't need enough liquid to be collected to create bacteria that help break down the solid waste in the septic tank.


Specific Type of Septic System


There are 7 types of septic tank systems and the size of the tank required can vary depending on the specific system you intend to use. An overview of each type of system and its sizing requirements is beyond the scope of this article. Here, when we talk about system type, we mean traditional gravity-fed anaerobic septic systems. Anaerobic septic tanks are the most common type and are the most obvious when we think of septic tanks.


The 7 common types of septic tanks are listed below and the new polyethylene septic tank can be used in most, if not all, systems that require this tank:

  1. Conventional system, gravity feeding, anaerobic

  2. Septic system on the ground

  3. Pressure system

  4. Aerobic system

  5. Mound system

  6. Recirculating sand or gravel filter system

  7. Bottomless sand filter system

Additional dimensions of the septic system


As mentioned earlier, the septic tank is more than just a pit. Designs vary, but most tanks require an inlet baffle from inside, an outlet baffle on the opposite side of the tank, and plenty of room for a nearby septic area. In addition, most systems require different distribution boxes and test tubes. In other words, if you have 40 square feet of available space on your property for a tank, do not install a tank that takes up 37 square feet, as the drainage field requirements will easily exceed your ideal size. The drain field and related components vary greatly in size and there are ways to limit the amount of space they take up, but each property is unique. You know the chorus. Bring an expert to your property to discuss possible options.


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