There are several factors to take into consideration when choosing the best sewage solution. The first question is do you need a sewage treatment plant or a septic tank? They both have the same purpose to an extent - they provide buildings without access to main sewers with a way of processing their wastewater. There are also some important differences to consider though. Â
What is the difference between a septic tank and a sewage treatment plant?
A septic tank is a large chamber where the sewage from your house is treated. The sewage enters the tank via gravity before being separated into solids and oils. The separated wastewater leaves the tank via an outlet into a drainage field and percolates through the ground in order to remove bacteria.Â
As with a septic tank, the sewage enters the tank via gravity and the sludge settles to the bottom but a sewage treatment plant is more of an eco-friendly solution as they use naturally occuring bacteria to treat the organic matter. Therefore, the tank is non-polluting and can be discharged straight into the watercourse.
What should you look out for when choosing a sewage system
Effluent quality
The effluent quality of your sewage system is one of the most important factors, especially if it’s being discharged straight into a watercourse. It must be treated to a sufficient standard to prevent any damage to the environment or risk to human health. It is vital that sewage treatment plants sold in the UK have passed testing under the BS EN 12566-3 standard in order to be deemed legally compliant.
Operation/maintenance & cost
The extra costs in running and maintaining your sewage system could cause you unnecessary headaches… which is why it’s important to do your research and understand exactly what the needs and limitations will be, in order to avoid any legal or financial difficulties.
Installation ease & cost
Installing a sewage system is not easy and should always be carried out by a qualified professional. There are many factors to consider including the depth of the bedrock and the height of the water table, to the slope of the land, intended discharge area, building regulations, environmental permits, work vehicle access and the height of the discharge point, just to name a few.Â
Aesthetic appearance
This may not be the most important factor but if you like to keep an immaculately landscaped garden the following options could play a key part in your decision.
- Kiosk type - this varies between sewage treatment plants can either be built into the tank or in a separate housing to be located above ground. Built-in ones can be unobtrusive but can cause maintenance challenges. Above ground housings are easier to maintain but sometimes look unsightly.Â
- Cover size and type - covers also largely vary between visual lumps in your garden to small, unobtrusive discs that blend into the grass.Â
How can we help?
We will always advise you to choose a sewage treatment plant over a septic tank or cesspool due to its huge environmental benefit and compliance. If you need to know more about sewage treatment plants or septic tanks, please get in touch with our team of experts on 0121 351 3230.
Alternatively, fill out our enquiry form:
