What is the lowest maintenance off grid drainage system?

In terms of off-grid drainage systems, which is easier to maintain - a septic tank or sewage treatment plant?

Asked by Abdul on 15th May 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"Septic tank all day long, if you don’t use bleach and anything with antibacterial or washing up liquid or baby wipes and you’ll be fine 👍🏻"
Answered on 18th May 2023 - Member since Jan 2023 - report
"Septic tanks are easier to maintain in terms of they have annual empties and discharge to drainage field where as water treatment plants having moving parts that require servicing. However water treatment plant discharging to water courses are excellent in terms of life span as drainage fields only have a certain life span."
Answered on 15th May 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"Hi there, Abdul. With regards to your question, septic tanks are regularly required to be emptied by tanker unit every so often when the tank fills up. This does come at a cost of around £200-£400 per empty. How often is this all depends on the size of the tank and how many people in the household. But id say around average and 3/4 monthly. With treatment plants, these do not require any maintenance as all the sewage wastes that go into the tank are treated and turnt into clear water which can be pumped from the treatment plant into a near by stream for example or you install a Soakaway. But again as regards to maintenance there’s no maintenance required for treatment plants. Feel free to contact me"
Answered on 15th May 2023 - Member since Mar 2021 - report
"Depending on your house location you would have to have a survey done to find out the most economical way of treating the outside area."
Answered on 17th Oct 2024 - Member since Jun 2021 - report
"Hi Abdul, We would nearly always advise on a treatment Plant, However our advise is based on many considerations such as location, Budget, availability usage, Contact Brett at Lavin and sons construction for more specific information"
Answered on 16th May 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"id say, a Cesspit Tank, underground . . supplied & fitted . . about £7000"
Answered on 15th May 2023 - Member since Nov 2015 - report
"Hi Abdul. Here is a link to some helpful content to help you make your choices.

https://www.drainagesuperstore.co.uk/help-and-advice/product-guides/sewage-treatment/sewage-treatment-plants-buyers-guide/

https://www.wildonuk.co.uk/news/how-to-manage-sewage-drainage-when-living-off-grid/

I feel the treatment plants would be best for you as they are a living eco system that digests the sewerage making for less maintenance.

Hope this helps

Kind regards

Jamie"
Answered on 15th May 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"Please don't listen to the reply that says treatment plants don't require any maintenance, they do. All manufacturers recommend an annual service to ensure any pumps, motors, drive arrangements, blowers and diffusers are operating as they should be and are safe. If they aren't the engineer will recommend any remedial work required to get the plant running properly again. They will also advise on of a desludge is required or not.

There are a lot of good plants out there, most companies will be happy to have a chat and give you a point in the right direction"
Answered on 15th May 2023 - Member since Dec 2020 - report
"Septic tank depending on size and use easy to maintain"
Answered on 16th May 2023 - Member since Mar 2021 - report
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