The choice between a concrete or plastic septic tank is common when designing a septic system. Plastic tanks are cheaper, easier to install, and less prone to corrosion and tree root infiltration, but may be prohibited in some areas due to the risk of leaks. They are also more easily damaged during installation and have lower holding capacity. Proper design and installation are crucial, and homeowners should consult a professional to determine the best tank type for their needs.
When designing a septic system, one of the most common questions asked is whether it should be concrete or plastic. Septic tanks, which store solid waste, come in concrete, steel, fiberglass, and plastic. The best-selling models are those made of concrete or plastic. Of all of these options, a plastic septic tank is typically the least expensive and easiest to install. Despite the benefits that plastic designs offer, the use of plastic septic tanks is prohibited in some regions due to the risk of leaks and other complications if the tank is not installed and maintained properly.
Plastic is not chemically reactive and a plastic septic tank will not have the corrosion problems common with steel tanks. Unlike concrete, plastic is not a porous material. Plastic tanks are not prone to damage from tree root infiltration, a major problem associated with concrete tanks. When installed correctly, a plastic septic tank is watertight and better able to withstand extreme temperatures. A septic system with a plastic tank is less likely to have odor problems in hot weather and less likely to break down when ground temperatures dip below freezing.
The difference in weight to concrete can be both an advantage and a disadvantage for a plastic septic tank. These tanks are so light that they can be installed without the use of a crane or other heavy equipment, but are also more easily cracked or damaged during the installation process. Damage to the tank or connecting pipes can also be caused by the plastic tank moving or floating upwards, which can occur if waste levels in the tank are very low or if the surrounding ground is inundated by rainwater. Plastic tank designs are available that feature a stiffening rib structure to make the tank more durable. Most manufacturers will offer some type of warranty against damage under normal use.
Performance comparisons of concrete and plastic tanks indicate that plastic tanks tend to have lower effluent levels under similar usage conditions. These lower levels are usually the result of waste leaking from cracks in the tank. Improper performance of routine maintenance procedures can also cause leaks due to a damaged or missing drain plug. In addition to having lower average effluent levels, plastic tanks are typically made to have a lower holding capacity than concrete tanks. For these reasons, many designers prefer to use concrete tanks for high volume commercial installations.
Properly designing and installing an effective and efficient septic system can be a challenge. Site-specific conditions, such as soil types and drainage patterns, will need to be taken into account when selecting the most suitable tank type for a particular application. Local ordinances may restrict or prohibit the installation of a plastic septic tank. Homeowners should consult a licensed professional to determine which type of tank meets the design criteria for their proposed wastewater treatment system.
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