Septic tanks are one of the most popular alternatives to sewer lines in the UK. They are commonly used in rural areas where it is not cost-effective to connect to the municipal water system. Septic tanks have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Here are some pros and cons of septic tanks:
Pros:
- Septic tanks provide a known, controlled and refined form of wastewater treatment at an off-the-grid location.
- They are much more environmentally friendly than latrines since the wastewater is partially treated naturally.
- Septic tanks require relatively little maintenance. They need to be pumped every two to five years to remove the accumulated solids.
- Septic tanks allow you to use normal indoor plumbing like toilets and dishwashers.
- Installing a septic tank is often cheaper than connecting a home to a sewer line half a mile away.
- You retain the option to connect to the sewer line later if the local grid expands to include your home.
- When you only use the septic system, you typically don’t have to pay municipal water fees.
Cons:
- Septic tanks fail when flooded. This may be because you have a water leak in your home flooding the drains and thus the septic tank with water. If there is outdoor flooding, it could push sewage into your home.
- Septic tanks must be pumped to remove solid waste every two to six years depending on how fast solids accumulate in them.
- If you smell sewage or see large wet spots above the septic tank field, it requires repairs.
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