Classification and principles for choosing a septic tank: application, principle of operation, structural features, diagrams, operation

Surface septic tank for a country toilet

Surface septic tank for a country toilet

If you are building your own country house or permanent housing on a summer cottage, then you cannot get around the problem of wastewater treatment and disposal. The classic cesspool no longer satisfies all the requirements of a person accustomed to everyday comfort. The construction of a septic tank gives more scope for the implementation of the idea of ​​autonomous water supply and sewerage. However, not in all areas it will be possible to build a septic tank buried in the ground. The solution may be a surface septic tank for a country toilet.

Construction of septic tanks

Septic tanks are designed to treat wastewater coming from the home sewer system. After passing through such equipment, the water cannot be drunk, but it is quite acceptable to use it for domestic purposes, for example, for watering the garden.

Water purification in septic tanks occurs due to natural processes of decomposition into organic and inorganic residues. Wastewater entering the primary and subsequent tanks of the septic tank remains in a calm state for some time, usually for 2-3 days. During this period, gases dissolved in the drain evaporate from the water, and solid particles, under the influence of gravity, settle to the bottom of the container.

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At the bottom of the septic tank, so-called activated sludge accumulates, which also contributes to water purification. As a result, inorganic pollutants either escape from the water into the air or settle to the bottom, and organic remains decompose into elementary chemicals that are harmless to humans and plants.

For deeper cleaning, several large tanks are connected one after another in the septic tank. Step by step the water becomes more transparent. From the outermost container, water can be taken for domestic needs or filtered into the ground through a drainage pad. Such more or less purified water will not pose any threat to the environment.

Surface septic tank next to the country toilet

Important points when choosing a septic tank

• Cost of septic tank and its installation

When choosing a septic tank for your dacha based on price, remember which rule works best here: “the simpler, the cheaper.” The lowest cost will be a simple system with a filtration well. Installing equipment with a filtration field or infiltrator will be significantly more expensive. The highest cost is for biological treatment systems, especially industrial production and assembly. But the costs quickly pay off when used correctly.

• Difficulty of installation

Purchased biological treatment systems are undoubtedly the simplest and most convenient to install: they often consist of a single tank or several equal-sized and series-connected containers. All that remains is to dig one hole and install the entire system into it.

A septic tank with a filtration well is a little more difficult to install: to install them, you need to make several recesses, and lay a cushion of sand and crushed stone at the bottom of the last hole.

The most difficult installation is considered to be for systems with a filtration field or infiltrator: to install them, you need to dig a fairly large pit, then put sand and crushed stone or gravel into it, install filter elements and cover everything with earth again.

• Service frequency

Whatever autonomous sewer you choose, in any case it needs to be cleaned much less often than a cesspool. And the more perfect the design, the fewer reasons there are to resort to the services of a sewer service.

The overflow chambers of a septic tank with a filtration well are cleaned approximately every six months, and the bed of sand and crushed stone will have to be changed no more than once every 5–7 years.

The time it takes for a system with a filtration field or infiltrator to become contaminated depends on the volume of the sump and the intensity of sewer use. Since treated wastewater is discharged over a large area, it is enough to replace sand and crushed stone at the bottom of the pit once every 10 years.

If we single out the best among septic tanks for summer cottages in terms of maintenance, which works without pumping, then these are biological or deep treatment stations - all operations to free them from accumulated sludge can be carried out on your own - manually and no more than once every six months . But, as noted above, this is hardly advisable in terms of price for a seasonal home. But here everyone is guided by their own budget.

• Degree of wastewater treatment

All autonomous sewers are divided into two types according to the method of influencing wastewater: mechanical and mechanical-biological. The purification level in the first case is 70% - the water is unsuitable even for irrigation, and only lawn grass can be planted above the filtration field or infiltrator. The degree of wastewater purification under combined influence reaches 95–98% - which is an acceptable indicator for industrial water suitable for irrigation and other household needs.

• System non-volatility

There are systems that run on electricity, and there are non-volatile septic tanks for summer cottages. Which is better? As a rule, the former are more compact and the rate of waste processing is higher. The functionality of the station is ensured by a compressor; often a pump is installed to pump wastewater. For the smooth operation of the equipment, a constant supply of electricity and maintenance of the installation are important.

According to experts, if we compare the first and second ones, the efficiency of non-volatile systems is much higher, despite their large dimensions and longer cleaning period. The fact that the installations are completely autonomous and their maintenance requires lower costs is also a definite advantage.

When is it necessary to build a surface septic tank?

Septic tanks buried in the ground are made from a variety of materials. These can be durable structures made of concrete, various ready-made containers, for example, metal barrels. An underground septic tank can even be made from old rubber tires.

However, when the groundwater level is high, the situation is complicated by the fact that when building a septic tank, it is necessary to ensure reliable sealing of the container. The entry of untreated wastewater into the ground can cause such unpleasant things as contamination of autonomous water supplies or even the death of agricultural crops.

In addition, the construction of a septic tank buried in the ground in moisture-saturated soil in itself represents a complex engineering task caused by the need to strengthen the walls of the pit to prevent them from being washed away.

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But there is a good solution that allows you to build an effective septic tank even on the shore of a reservoir or on marshy soil. This is an isolated surface septic tank, which is located almost on the surface of the earth.

Septic tanks by method of operation

The main classification of septic tanks is the method of wastewater treatment. This affects the possibility of salvo discharge, the rate of processing of organic materials, and the level of purity of the liquid at the outlet. Let's consider six existing options, their pros and cons, as well as optimal conditions for operation.

Storage septic tanks

The simplest and most ancient way to collect wastewater coming from bathrooms, kitchen sinks, showers, etc. This is the cheapest septic tank to manufacture and previously only it was used in private homes.

Device. Storage septic tanks are a container buried in the ground. Essentially, this is a cesspool. The tank must be sealed so that wastewater does not saturate the walls and does not go into the ground. A sewer pipe is laid from the house. The entry point to the septic tank is located below the freezing level of the soil. If this is not possible, additional pipe insulation is used.

Installation of a storage septic tank.

To create a cesspool storage pit, the following can be used:

• reinforced concrete monolithic capsule;
• plastic tank;
• reinforced concrete rings;
• brickwork.

Any material for a septic tank has its own characteristics, which are important to know about at the selection stage in order to take into account all the nuances during construction.

Brick storage

Since sewage drains are an aggressive environment (they contain alkalis, solvents, acids, etc.), only ceramic bricks are allowed to be used for laying the walls of a cesspool. It better resists the negative effects of a poor environment. It is best, from the point of view of structural strength, to lay out the septic tank in the shape of a vertical cylinder.

Brick storage.

Reinforced concrete rings

These are ready-made cylindrical structures, stacked on top of each other and connected with mortar. Their walls are thick and strong, therefore they provide increased strength to the cesspool and prevent its collapse. But installation will require heavy construction equipment.

Storage tank made of reinforced concrete rings.

Storage container made of plastic

A ready-made container with thick plastic walls that can withstand constant contact with aggressive environments. It is lightweight, so installation can be done by several people. There are many modifications on sale in terms of capacity, shape and cost.

A storage septic tank made of plastic is one of the most durable, since this material is not destroyed by moisture.

Storage container made of plastic.

Monolithic reinforced concrete storage tank

It can be made on site or using a pre-fabricated monolithic reinforced concrete container, which is brought to the site and installed in a pre-dug hole.

Septic tank made of monolithic concrete.

When making it yourself, the walls of the dug hole are lined with removable formwork, into which concrete is poured. To increase strength, a frame made of reinforcement is used. After the concrete has hardened, the formwork is removed and the walls are covered with waterproofing to protect the septic tank from destruction due to regular contact with alkalis and acids.

Manufacturing a septic tank from monolithic concrete.

Rules for placing cesspools on the site

The organization of a storage septic tank is regulated by the requirements of SNiP 30-02-97, as well as SanPiN 42-128-4690-88.

According to the documents, you must adhere to the following rules:

• There should be at least 10-12 m between the cesspool and residential buildings.
• The maximum depth of the storage tank can be 3 m or less, depending on the groundwater level in a particular area.
• The distance from wells must be at least 20 m, from water mains - 10 m, from the boundaries of a private plot - from 1 m.

Principle of operation. Effluent from the house flows through the sewer into the septic tank. As it fills, periodic cleaning is required. To do this, they call a special machine and carry out sewage disposal. Understanding the principle of operation, it is important to organize the cesspool in such a place that a heavy vehicle with a tank can drive up to it and lay a 10 m long hose.

Pumping out the septic tank.

It is necessary to monitor the liquid level in the septic tank, avoiding excessive rise when 35 cm remains to the edge of the pit, otherwise the soil may be contaminated from spilled wastewater. If the amount of liquid drained is small, once every six months it is still necessary to pump out and disinfect the container with specialized means (tablets or solutions).

Advantages of storage septic tanks

1. The cleaning system does not depend on electricity.
2. The sealed container prevents contaminants from entering the soil and water.
3. Plastic tanks are relatively cheap and easy to install without construction equipment.
4. The brick construction is not complicated and the work can be done on your own.

Disadvantages of savings skeptics

1. This type is not suitable for areas with high groundwater levels.
2. Periodic pumping is required, so this type is optimal only for houses with 2-3 users or for occasional residence.
3. If more than 1 m³ is discharged per day, the pit will quickly fill up and very frequent pumping will make it financially unprofitable to use such a septic tank.
4. During septic tank maintenance, there is an unpleasant odor around.
5. There must be enough space on the site for the access of a sewage disposal truck.

In what case should you use a storage septic tank? From the above disadvantages, it becomes clear where to use a septic tank of this type. These are dachas, private houses in which several people periodically live. Frequent pumping by sewer trucks will increase utility costs, so for a larger number of residents it is better to consider other options.

It is important that the groundwater in the area is not high, otherwise it will fill the cesspool with itself, leaving no room for drainage. Although, if you bury a plastic container, it is completely sealed and suitable for such a place.

Septic tanks with soil treatment

Most of the wastewater is dirty water. If it is separated, cleaned and drained into the ground, the volume of solid biological and mechanical non-degradable inclusions will be significantly reduced. Then you will not need a large tank for storing waste and frequent pumping. For post-treatment, various designs are used, which we will now consider.

Septic tank with filtration well

As the name of the modification suggests, the septic tank has an additional well that filters out the liquid component of the wastewater.

Installation of a septic tank with a filtration well. You can build the structure for such a cleaning system yourself or buy a ready-made one. Inside the tank there are usually several chambers connected to each other along the top. After the septic tank, a well with a leaky bottom must be provided. It is filled first with river sand, and then with large and medium fractions of crushed stone.

Three-chamber septic tank with filtration well.

Another option for such a system is the organization of several overflow wells. If you do everything yourself using concrete rings, you can save a lot on costs. The location of the bottom edge of the well should be above the groundwater level.

Overflow well system.

The principle of operation of a septic tank with a filtration well. Through the sewer, liquid from the house enters the receiving chamber of the septic tank. Heavy and solid particles settle in it , and water flows through a connected pipe at the top of the tank into the adjacent chamber. Residual suspensions settle to the bottom in it . There can be up to 3 units of such overflow chambers. The more, the lighter and cleaner the water will be when leaving the septic tank.

The liquid then flows into the well for further treatment. Cleaning is achieved by passing through a filtration pad consisting of sand and crushed stone. Purified water goes into the soil.

Gradually, throughput will be lost as the artificial filtration substrate begins to silt up. About once every 5-6 years you will need to pump out the water from the well and replace the pillow, restoring normal filtration rate .

It will also be necessary to periodically remove solid contaminants from the receiving chamber that settle to the bottom. But this needs to be done much less frequently than in a conventional cesspool, since most of the wastewater is water, and it will drain away on its own.

The rate of absorption of purified liquid depends on the type of soil on the site. Loam and clay hardly absorb water, so the well will fill up quickly. Sandstone, chernozem and sandy loam soil types, on the contrary, have excellent water absorption, providing a long resource for the system.

Advantages of septic tanks with a filtration well

1. Complete independence from electricity.
2. A simple design that you can build yourself.
3. Extended service intervals.

Disadvantages of septic tanks with a filtration well

1. The gravel-sand cushion needs to be replaced every 5-6 years (this is dirty and labor-intensive work).
2. The degree of purification remains low.
3. The system is not applicable in areas with loam.
4. A septic tank is not suitable for soil with a high groundwater level.
5. The receiving chamber needs to be cleared of sludge.

In what case can it be used? The system is suitable for a private house in which 3-4 people regularly live. Mandatory conditions are: deep groundwater, black soil or sandstone as the main soil on the site. But a large salvo discharge is not provided, otherwise the septic tank will overflow and the contents will leak to the surface.

Septic tank with filtration field

An improved previous type, where the sand and crushed stone cushion is increased to the size of an entire field. This is a more environmentally friendly way of cleaning.

Construction of a septic tank with a filtration field. The system consists of a receiving area with one or more chambers, a distribution well and a field for underground wastewater treatment. The filtration field is made of sand and gravel with a total depth of 1 m or more. To supply liquid, a system of perforated pipes is used, which evenly distributes water for accelerated absorption into the soil.

Septic tank with filtration field. 1. Sump. 2. Distribution well. 3. Perforated pipes of the underground filtration field.

The operating principle of a septic tank with a filtration field. The wastewater from the house is carried through an underground pipe into a receiving chamber. Heavy organic matter and debris settle there. Fats and light substances flow through the pipe into the next compartment. There are 2 or 3 such chambers. From them, the drains move into a distribution well, which acts as a collector, dividing the channel into many pipes.

Purified water enters the field through perforations in the pipes. After passing through a thick layer of sand and crushed stone, the liquid turns out even cleaner. To prevent the formation of a vacuum and stop the filtration process, ventilation outlets of pipes above the soil level for air intake are important everywhere.

A more complex system contains additional pipes under the field that collect the filtered water and deliver it to the well. From there it is pumped into a drainage channel for removal from the site.

Septic tank with a filtration field and an additional well for collecting purified water.

To organize a filtration field, you will need an area of ​​30 m². The ability of the sewer system to absorb a certain volume of wastewater depends on the type of soil on the site. Sand has the highest absorbency, and clay has the worst. The estimated service life of the filtration field is 10 years, after which it will require its organization in a new location or replacement of crushed stone and sand.

Advantages of a septic tank with a filtration field

1. Long service intervals.
2. Increased productivity.

Cons of a septic tank with a filtration field

1. The system requires a large area.
2. In 10 years, there will be a large-scale and costly process to replace the filtration pad.
3. The cost of constructing the complex is high.
4. The level of purification is insufficient to use the outlet water for technical needs.

In what case can it be used? The high performance of the septic tank allows it to be used in private houses where 5-8 people live. But the system needs a spacious place to bury the reservoir and construct a filter field.

On top of such an area it is allowed to sow a lawn or a flower bed. Planting fruit trees and shrubs is prohibited, as the plants will absorb water from the sewer and accumulate harmful substances in the fruits, which will lead to intestinal diseases.

Septic tank with infiltrator

An infiltrator is a more compact replacement for a filtration field. It is a flat tank of small height with walls sloping upward. Numerous holes are made in them, as well as in the bottom. For example, an infiltrator with a capacity of 400 liters replaces 35 linear meters of pipes distributing water across the field.

Construction of a septic tank with an infiltrator. The sewerage treatment scheme looks like this. A pipe runs from the house, supplying wastewater to the septic tank. The latter uses two chambers, through which the clarified water enters the infiltrator. It is located on a gravel-sand bed that receives wastewater. Natural ventilation is required.

Septic tank with infiltrator. 1. Septic tank; 2. Pipe; 3. Cushion made of crushed stone; 4. Infiltrator; 5. Ventilation.

There is a modification with an intermediate well between the septic tank and the infiltrator. Let's look at how the two options work.

Septic tank with infiltrator and intermediate well.

The principle of operation of a septic tank with an infiltrator. The wastewater ends up in the septic tank, where heavy masses settle to the bottom. Light liquid with fats flows into the infiltrator and leaves through the holes to the outside.

Infiltrator in section.

A cushion of sand and crushed stone is arranged both under the infiltrator and on its sides, which increases the area of ​​the filter layer while maintaining compact dimensions. The scheme is suitable for a flat area with liquid flowing by gravity at a slight slope.

Infiltrator installation process.

The operating principle of an infiltrator with an intermediate well. The second version of the scheme with an intermediate well is relevant for an area where there is a high groundwater level, low absorption or uneven landscape. The well is equipped with a check valve to prevent water from returning back to the septic tank.

The liquid from the well is forcibly pumped out by a pump into the infiltrator, so the latter can be higher in level than the septic tank itself.

Advantages of a septic tank with an infiltrator

1. Fairly simple installation.
2. Does not require regular maintenance.
3. The entire system fits in a small area.
4. The sewer system is capable of receiving a large salvo discharge.
5. The well scheme is suitable for areas with high levels of soil water flow.

Disadvantages of a septic tank with an infiltrator

1. The quality of cleaning is not high enough to reuse the water.
2. The area above the infiltrator is only suitable for lawns.
3. The pump system is dependent on the availability of electrical power.
4. Over time, you will need to dig out the infiltrator to replace the cushion and clean the holes.

In what case should you use a septic tank with an infiltrator? Suitable for private houses with a large number of living users. The system can withstand volumetric volley discharge (simultaneous discharge from several toilets, bathtubs, sinks), provided that it is installed on black soil or sand-dominated soil. It is important that the groundwater lies deep, then there will be no problems with absorption.

In what case is it necessary to use a septic tank with an infiltrator and an intermediate well? The presence of an additional well with a check valve is important for land plots with low absorption and high groundwater levels. Such an intermediate element will prevent the septic tank from filling when the clarified water flows back.

Septic tanks with deep biotreatment

If the land area around the house is small and does not allow organizing a filtration field or burying an infiltrator, stations with biological treatment are used. They are compact and suitable for soils with low absorption rates. They also have a higher degree of purification, so the environment is preserved, and the output water can be reused. There are ready-made factory-made versions available for sale.

Septic tank with biofilter

The main difference between this type of septic tank and the above is the presence of a biological filter. It purifies water not only mechanically, but also through biochemical processes.

Installation of septic tanks with a biofilter. Depending on the manufacturer, the design of the septic tank may differ, but the general device consists of a septic chamber and a biological block. In the compartment with the biofilter there is a backfill made of a certain material that is not subject to rotting: expanded clay, polystyrene foam, synthetic fibers.

During the operation of the septic tank, a biofilm consisting of numerous colonies of bacteria is formed on the surface of the backfill. Thousands of bacteria live in it, improving the quality of cleaning.

Here are several options for constructing a septic tank of this type, presented in drawings for clarity.

1. Membrane with holes; 2. Ventilation; 3. Ring No. 1; 4. Plug; 5. Ring No. 2; 6. Biofilter retainer; 7. LOU housing; 8. Biofilter with loading; 9. Flat filter.

Septic tank with biofilter.

The operating principle of a septic tank with a biofilter. Through the inlet pipe, wastewater from the house enters the receiving compartment. Here they settle and solid particles settle and fats separate, followed by their floating. To pass into the next chamber, the liquid passes through a membrane - a material with calibration holes. The liquid is then subjected to subsequent mechanical filtration using rot-resistant fabric or solid granular materials.

Then comes the final, biological stage of purification. In a compartment with pre-loaded bacteria, complex organic elements are processed into simpler ones. Bacteria do not need oxygen and live on their own (feed on incoming masses). Due to their active action, all organic matter breaks down to the level of ordinary water.

The degree of purification can reach 85-95%, depending on the condition of the incoming flow, the type of coarse filter and the type of bacteria.

Next, the water enters the storage tank. The liquid from it can be discharged into drainage, simply poured onto the ground, or used for technical needs.

Advantages of a septic tank with a biofilter

1. Simple maintenance - once every 30 days a new batch of bacteria is poured into the toilet to maintain the system's functionality.
2. Installing the tank is simple, and the tank itself does not take up much space on the site.
3. There are no unpleasant odors.
4. The sewage system is completely energy independent.
5. The degree of purification reaches 85-95%.

Disadvantages of a septic tank with a biofilter

1. The system is more expensive than conventional storage septic tanks.
2. The sewage system should not be allowed to remain idle for 2-3 weeks, otherwise the beneficial bacteria may die, making the biofilter ineffective.
3. Regular loading of biological products is required.
4. Bacteria, although they do not depend on oxygen, are killed by bleach and other aggressive chemicals used to clean household plumbing.

In what case should you choose a septic tank with a biofilter? Since an autonomous sewage system of this type requires a constant supply of a nutrient medium for bacteria, septic tanks are suitable for private houses with permanent residence of users. Refilling biological products is simple and possible through the toilet. After filling a new batch, the bacterial colony multiplies on its own and reaches maximum cleaning efficiency after 15 days.

A septic tank is relevant for those who have a small plot of land next to their house, free for organizing sewerage.

Deep biological treatment station with forced air supply

An even greater degree of filtration is provided by the autonomous sewage system of a private house with deep bio-purification and forced air supply. Oxygen is necessary to support the vital activity of another family of bacteria, which accelerate and improve the process of processing organic matter. Let's look at the device and how it works.

Construction of a biorefinery station with forced air supply. Septic tanks with forced air supply consist of several chambers connected to each other by overflows in the upper part. The design also necessarily contains several aeration tanks for working with activated sludge. Tubes coming from the compressor are connected to them.

The location of the cameras can be along one line in series or inside a square housing.

Here are some examples of a septic tank with forced air supply:

1. Release; 2. Tertiary settling tank; 3. First stage aeration tank; 4. Secondary settling tank; 5. Second stage aeration tank; 6. Settlement-grease trap for collecting silt, sand, fats; 7. Sewage inlet.

Deep cleaning system with open hatch.

The process of installing a deep wastewater treatment system.

Examples of water drainage from the station:

Operating principle of a deep biotreatment station. The sewage mass flows through a pipe into a settling tank, in which debris and silt settle at the bottom, and grease and other light suspended matter are separated. Insoluble particles remain in it until service.

When the primary chamber overflows, the filtrate enters the aeration tank. There it is mixed with activated sludge. There is a lot of algae and bacteria inside the latter, and air is constantly forced into the container from the outside compressor. Such conditions trigger a rapid and rapid process of processing organic matter into simple compounds.

There are models with two aeration tanks, which improves the quality of cleaning. In the final stage, the water enters the final settling tank, where the sludge settles and is pumped back to the first aeration tank for the next cycle. At the outlet, the water is purified to 98-99%, so it is allowed to be used for technical needs.

Advantages of a deep biotreatment station

1. A durable system that can last for decades.
2. Suitable for installation on any local area, regardless of the type of soil and groundwater level.
3. Doesn't take up much space.
4. There are no unpleasant odors.
5. The station does not require the addition of biological products.
6. Deep purification up to 98-99% allows water to be reused.

Disadvantages of a deep cleaning station

1. Costs more than other versions.
2. Once every six months, sludge must be removed because too much of it gradually accumulates.
3. The system is dependent on electricity, because it requires a constant supply of air from the compressor. Without air, the biological environment in activated sludge dies.
4. If the sewer is not used for some time, the bacteria die and the effectiveness of future filtration is lost.

In what case should it be used? Due to the forced air supply, the process of wastewater processing proceeds very quickly - up to 1500 liters per week. This allows the stations to be used in houses with a large number of residents.

Other equipment can be installed on land plots with high groundwater levels. The system itself is expensive, but then there is practically no maintenance (excess sludge must be removed every six months).

Advantages and disadvantages of a surface septic tank

Despite the obviousness of this solution, it also has significant drawbacks.

1. First of all, such a septic tank cannot be used in winter conditions - the wastewater in it will freeze and no purification will occur.
2. In addition, since the liquid level in a surface septic tank is quite high, it may be necessary to use a fecal pump to deliver wastewater into it. This makes the septic tank dependent on the power source and imposes restrictions on its construction in areas not equipped with a power supply line.

Factors influencing the placement of a septic tank on the site

To select the location of wastewater collection and treatment plants, it is necessary to take into account several factors: · type of septic tank; · equipment performance; · need to connect electricity; · number of buildings served; · seasonality of operation; · proximity to groundwater surface; · soil composition; · relief of the site; · method of disposal of treated sewage waste; · frequency and method of sewage disposal - in other words: how often the sewage disposal machine will pump out; · its geographical location (wind rose, proximity of bodies of water, position relative to buildings and other areas, various structures, etc.).

What to make a surface septic tank from?

Surface septic tank made of Eurocubes

An excellent material for the construction of a surface septic tank can be Eurocubes - specialized plastic containers with durable, thick walls. The plastic used for the manufacture of Eurocubes is characterized by excellent resistance to aggressive chemical environments, including waste liquids.

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Inside the Eurocube, in the corners of the structure, there are special protective inserts that prevent abrasion of the material. Eurocubes are available in various sizes and can accommodate from 0.6 to 1.2 cubic meters of waste.

Eurocubes with external reinforcement

The Eurocube is also resistant to earth movements, especially after external reinforcement; in addition, plastic cubes are characterized by excellent tightness.

You may be interested in information about the location of the septic tank on the snip site

A Eurocube, especially a used one, is relatively inexpensive, so building a septic tank from such materials will fit perfectly into your family budget.

Eurocube prices

eurocube

Septic tanks by material of manufacture

When choosing a ready-made septic tank or a design for the construction of an autonomous sewer system, pay attention to the properties of the materials from which they will be made.

Septic tanks made of reinforced concrete

Septic tank made of reinforced concrete.

Advantages of a reinforced concrete septic tank

1. Long service life - up to 50 years;
2. High strength walls withstand loads from the soil;
3. Excellent tightness;
4. It will not float due to the influx of groundwater.

Disadvantages of a reinforced concrete septic tank

1. If the septic tank is assembled using the stacking method, then cracks are possible at the joints of the rings;
2. Complex installation requiring the use of equipment;
3. If the reinforcement is exposed, corrosion will begin;
4. When pouring concrete, special additives are required to increase the water resistance of the material - without them, the service life of the structure is reduced.

Brick septic tanks

Brick septic tank.

Advantages of a brick septic tank

1. You can post it yourself;
2. No construction equipment required;
3. Relatively cheap materials.

Cons of a brick septic tank

1. The seams are not airtight (even when treated with mastic or grouted with cement mortar).

Metal septic tanks

Septic tank made of metal.

Advantages of a metal septic tank

1. High structural strength;
2. Sealed container.

Disadvantages of a metal septic tank

1. A construction crane is needed because the mass of the tank is very large;
2. Metal rusts, so the overall service life is short;
3. Stainless steel septic tanks are expensive.

How to build a surface septic tank from Eurocubes

A septic tank made from Eurocubes on the soil surface that purifies water can consist of several (two or more) containers connected to each other by plastic pipes. In each tank-container, wastewater coming from the toilet will undergo settling and purification, after which it will flow into the next tank. In order for water that has undergone a certain purification to flow into the next container, bypass pipes between the containers are mounted in the thickness of the liquid. In this case, the bypass pipes and the bottom of the second and subsequent tanks must be lower than the previous one to ensure the flow of the treated wastewater.

For the primary purification of fecal water coming from a country toilet, one container is sufficient. The bottom sediment formed in such a container is removed by a sewage disposal machine. If the septic tank is a completely sealed system, it can be located almost anywhere.

You may be interested in information - do-it-yourself sewerage from Eurocubes

If you do not want to use the services of septic tanks or want to use them extremely rarely, it makes sense to build a septic tank from two or more cubes. After three successive stages of purification, the liquid from the outermost container can be released into the ground through a drainage filter pad without risk to the environment. However, in this case, you will have to follow the rules for placing wastewater treatment facilities: move the septic tank away from water supplies and residential premises.

Recommended location of the septic tank

The breakdown of wastewater into simple chemical elements occurs in septic tanks under the influence of gravity and special bacteria. Such microorganisms work both in the water column, on its surface, and at the bottom, in the sediment. In order to start the septic tank, you can add such bacteria at the initial stage of work. They are available ready-made in the form of dietary supplements.

How to install a treatment plant when groundwater is close?

When placing groundwater near the surface, you can try to create a septic tank for a private home with your own hands. Brick or concrete rings are used for their installation.

Monolithic concrete wells are particularly productive, as they function well when underground arteries pass close to them.

The following points should be taken into account when working:

• there should be a space of 10-15 cm between the surface of the pit and the treatment structure;
• the thickness of the sand cushion is within 5-10 cm;
• it is necessary to make formwork from boards;
• so that the tank cannot move, the distance between the surfaces of the septic tank and the pit must be filled with sand;
• backfilling is carried out by gradually filling the tank with water.

For a high-quality treatment and filtration system, it is worth considering the installation of pipes and filtration fields

The simplest septic tank can be made with your own hands from plastic containers. You can use the Eurocube. In this case, the containers must be connected with special pipes through which waste liquids will move. Finished chambers must be coated with special waterproofing.

Installation diagram for a device made from Eurocubes

Helpful information! The installation of a monolithic well made of reinforced concrete will allow you to create a hermetically sealed structure.

Related article:

Do-it-yourself septic tank without pumping for 10 years. Design features that will allow you to avoid waste disposal are in a separate publication on our portal.

DIY version of a septic tank made of concrete rings: diagram and photo

You can create a high-quality septic tank from concrete rings with your own hands. The diagram shows all the main stages of installation.

Concrete installations can be made from several treatment tanks

Before proceeding with installation, you need to calculate and plan everything. In this case, it is worth determining where the structure of the tanks will be placed. The following points are taken into account:

• the length from the device to the building must be at least five meters;
• the distance from wells to drinking water sources is at least 50 m;
• distance to reservoirs – about 11 m;
• about 4 meters to garden plantings.

It is worth considering the installation diagram of a simple two-chamber installation

Laying concrete elements will require the use of special equipment. A crane and truck may be needed. After the calculations, three holes are made, which should be 10-12% larger than the rings. The bottom of the first two trenches is equipped with concrete pads, which are leveled horizontally. The bottom of the third recess should be deeper than the others. Crushed stone and sand are poured into it.

Structures made from concrete rings cannot be installed alone. These are large septic tanks that need to be covered on top with special slabs with a hatch.

The rings are treated with a bitumen compound before installation. Using special equipment, concrete elements are placed inside. All joints are treated with liquid glass.

It is necessary to make holes for the pipes, which are carefully sealed after installation.

It is also worth digging trenches for connecting sewer lines. At the entrance to the rings, sealing is performed using fittings and sealants.

After the sealing lubricants have hardened, the sewer manholes are installed. Treatment is carried out with bitumen mastic. Wells are insulated with stone wool and expanded polystyrene.

The distance between the well and the soil is covered with earth. You can also use clay for better waterproofing. Concrete blind areas are made from above to drain sediment flows.

High-quality installation of the device will avoid the problem of high groundwater level

A septic tank is a necessary part of the sewer system of a country house. You can install it yourself. In this case, you should follow the installation technology and follow the instructions.

The process of constructing a surface septic tank from Eurocubes

At the initial stage of building a surface septic tank, you need to determine its volume. In theory, each resident of a full-fledged comfortable home uses about two hundred liters of water daily when using running water.

However, if you are building a surface septic tank for a toilet in the country, this figure will be much lower, and you can get by with a small capacity.

Next, we’ll look at how to independently build a sufficiently insulated surface septic tank.

Why is it better to install a septic tank at your dacha instead of a cesspool?

Several main advantages of autonomous wastewater treatment:

1. Comparative ease of installation;
2. Environmental friendliness;
3. No large expenses or labor costs for installation and maintenance are required;
4. Guarantee of a high level of wastewater treatment;
5. Septic tanks can serve for many years, they are reliable and durable;
6. It is possible to install in any region with any type of soil;
7. A variety of systems allow you to choose the best option for both a small house and a spacious cottage where many people live;
8. You can arrange them yourself by selecting suitable materials.

The advantages of using them are obvious. In addition, the level of soil contamination is significantly reduced.

Maintenance and care of a surface septic tank

The septic tank is an autonomous structure, but in order for it not to attract your attention, you must adhere to certain rules for its use.

1. Large pieces of debris should not enter the septic tank.
2. In addition, the bioorganic environment of a septic tank is very sensitive to aggressive chemical solutions, such as detergents. Thus, a septic tank can effectively decompose fecal wastewater, but it is not recommended to direct wastewater from household appliances into it.

Finished design of a surface septic tank

From time to time the septic tank needs to be serviced. If you have designed the structure so that in the last treatment tank of the septic tank you have a liquid outlet into the drainage filter system, pumping with a sewer truck will rarely have to be carried out. But if the system is designed with a closed cycle, the septic tank tanks will have to be cleaned regularly.

Undoubtedly, the process of making a surface septic tank for a toilet in a country house from Eurocubes is not particularly difficult. This construction can be carried out even by one person, but will bring tangible results. Additional nuances of creating surface septic tanks are given in the video tutorial.

Other parameters for installing a septic tank on the site

Other distances that are allowed when installing elements of sewer systems are also specified in regulatory documents. For example, treatment facilities are recommended to be located no closer than 4 meters from cultivated fruit-bearing plantings. Standards have also been established for the placement of such structures in relation to the infrastructure elements of a populated area. So the distance from the edge of the road to the septic tank must be at least 5 m, the permissible distance from the main gas pipeline is 5 meters or more.

Which septic tanks are best suited for houses and cottages for permanent residence?

When choosing an autonomous sewer system for a cottage where people plan to live permanently, we again proceed from the number of days and volumes of water consumed by the residents.

Practice shows that for a family with an average income, a 2-3 section storage device in combination with a septic tank filter will be sufficient to provide sewerage at home. For example, a 3-section system, in which 2 compartments are storage tanks, and the 3rd is equipped without a bottom, with a backfill of crushed stone or a sand cushion for discharging purified water.

When organizing this type of autonomous system, it is important to take into account that the pillow is changed every 2-3 years, and the septic tank purifies the water by approximately 90%.