Which Septic Tank?

[Pettrix]

While a 2,000 gallon tank would suffice, I can get a 2,500 gallon tank for only $700 more. Both are precast concrete tanks and both have 2-chambers. I was told it was better to upsize just in case of large loads like family visiting or a party. It also helps out with allowing longer waste processing times due to the increase capacity.

Nobody sells fiberglass tanks out here.

What say you?

 

[Storm56]

I have been getting along quite nicely for 30 years on a 1000 gallon tank, think a 2500 is overkill unless you have a really large family or big parties!

 

[ustmd]

Or are full of it? :laughing:

 

[oldnslo]

What is the code in your area? Around here they are very strict on the minimum size tank that is required. I believe it is based on the number of bed rooms and bathrooms and not the number of people living in the home.

 

[MotorSeven]

How many bedrooms/bathrooms?

 

[creekbend]

We have a 1000 gallon concrete tank. Our Home is three bedrooms, 2 baths, with washer, dishwasher. It was installed 12 years ago. It has been pumped twice. The last time was around 4 months ago and cost $170.00. The owner of the septic service checked the entire system at that time, and informed me that all systems were working properly and in perfect condition.

 

[jinman]

When you get up to the 2,500 gallon range, that sounds like a small RV park. I'd expect going to 2,500 gallons would not be significant unless you also increase the size of your leach field to handle the excess runoff. If I had a huge house, outbuildings, shop, and maybe a business all on the same system, the extra capacity might be needed, but I don't think the increased 500 gallon tank size is worth the extra $700 with everything else remaining the same.

 

[Storm56]

You are correct that the tank must be sized. If memory serves me correct, I think a 1000 gallon tank would service at least a 3 bedroom home, possibly 4.

 

[greasemonkeyok]

Knowing what state you are in might produce more informative answers as the laws in various states are not uniform. Depending on the state, may not even be uniform from county to county.

 

[gcmedica21]

While a 2,000 gallon tank would suffice, I can get a 2,500 gallon tank for only $700 more. Both are precast concrete tanks and both have 2-chambers. I was told it was better to upsize just in case of large loads like family visiting or a party. It also helps out with allowing longer waste processing times due to the increase capacity.

Nobody sells fiberglass tanks out here.

What say you?

As everyone else has stated about the size of the house it is also important to point out how many PEOPLE will be using the system everyday. I have a 1500 gallon tank for 3 bedroom, dishwasher and washer with 2 people on mine. Have had it in for 5 years and it is doing great. (fingers crossed) Has not been pumped only checked out and cleaned filter out regularly. It all boils down to what you put in it and if a legitimate person put it in. Good luck

James