Not every owner of a private house has the ability to connect to a central sewer. In this case, people get out of the situation by arranging local wastewater disposal and treatment systems. A septic tank will be a good helper in this matter, and there are quite a few varieties of these designs.
When choosing such products, one should take into account many different important points - there are no trifles here. For everything to be done correctly, read our review of the best septic tanks of the year. However, before proceeding with a direct analysis of the characteristics of the models available on the market, let's see what this design is and what factors will affect the operation of the equipment. This is where our article will begin.
Summary of the rating:
Rules for choosing a septic tank
On sale you can find a large number of similar products, for them an appropriate classification was developed, based on the principle of action. The simplest option for this equipment is storage capacity. It is made in the form of a sealed plastic reservoir. Sewers will flow into it and accumulate there. From time to time they will have to be pumped out - for this you will have to use the services of a cesspool machine. Product with post-treatment function, which is produced in the soil. This option is also quite simple. The equipment includes one or two reservoirs in which the largest particles settle, and they decompose there without oxygen. The level of treatment is not too high, so waste water should not be discharged into the environment. For this reason, a post-treatment is placed, due to which harmful residues of contaminants will remain in a special filter.
You can also find full-fledged biological aerobic treatment plants, when wastewater is treated with the help of special organisms with the participation of oxygen. For this, the design is equipped with a special compressor, which will pump the required amount of air into the septic tank. A similar design is established taking into account the sanitary standards in force in our country.
When choosing a septic tank, a large number of factors should be taken into account - how many people live in the soil, climatic features, type of soil, the ability to connect to the mains, the amount of money, and so on. Take into account that per person per day should account for about 200 liters of water. Be sure to pay attention to the depth of the groundwater, as it is strictly forbidden that the effluents get there. It is convenient if the soil is sandy, since sand can act as a natural filter.
The depth of freezing of the soil is a very important point. If you place a septic tank above this level, the wastewater in the winter can freeze, and this will lead to depressurization of the chamber in the best case, and in the worst, to the failure of the device. However, on sale you can find designs that are designed specifically for such operating conditions.
It is also important to take into account the presence of free space on the site, since the septic tank is a sufficiently overall structure in itself, and it also needs to equip a sanitary zone where crops, fruit trees and shrubs cannot be planted. The vertical models are the least dimensional - you will have to spend more effort on placing them in the thickness of the soil, but in the free space you can seriously save.
When choosing models to include in our rating of the best septic tanks of this year, we took into account all the above points, however, we also took into account the numerous user reviews and value for money. Accordingly, the most expensive designs did not fall into our review. Now let's analyze the useful qualities of each model.
Budget models
4. Septic tank 2
This building is characterized by an ideal ratio of price and quality. It accumulates, sucks and treats wastewater. The inside structure is divided into three large sections, which are connected in series with each other. The last camera is divided into two more. The latter is a biological type filter, it is used for anaerobic wastewater treatment. At the exit from it there is another filtering system. Thanks to such design features of the unit, a multi-stage purification takes place, due to which approximately 80% of pollutants leave the water. This is a pretty high rate. After the water leaves the chamber, they pass into the infiltrator, where the treatment is completed in full, then they are discharged into the underlying soil or into the gutter.
If a septic tank is designed for installation on the territory of a summer cottage, the most suitable will be a design represented by one common building. It includes an external housing, inside of which there are partitions with overflows, dividing the entire volume into two or three chambers. In addition to them, a biological filter with a floating charge is provided. Two nozzles are also provided - one at the entrance and one at the exit, there is one or two necks that are tightly closed with special plastic covers. The maximum number of sections depends on how large the septic tank itself is. Small structures are equipped with two chambers, with their help up to 600 liters of water can be processed during the day, all other devices are divided into three compartments. The product of the greatest volume per day can process up to 1200 liters of water, this volume is quite enough for a family of six people.
Benefits:
- Septic tank has a simple and reliable design, which practically does not wear out;
- The case is tight and strong with reinforcing ribs, able to withstand significant loads;
- Elements requiring regular maintenance or repair are not provided;
- You can choose the volume of the product depending on the needs;
- Long period of operation;
- The mass is small, can be installed even alone;
- Compact overall dimensions.
Disadvantages:
- At the exit, it is necessary to install an additional sand or gravel filter;
- Improper installation will lead to an unpleasant odor in the house;
- The accumulated sludge is prohibited to use as fertilizer in summer cottages or garden plots.
3. Termite Profi 1.2
This unit collects and absorbs any pollution quite productively, so it is perfectly acceptable to use purified water for technical needs, including for watering flower beds and even beds. The model of domestic production is manufactured in strict compliance with all construction and sanitary requirements, so the equipment does not cause the slightest harm to the environment. Wastewater flows through both mechanical and biological treatment.The model can have two or three compartments, when passing through which the water is clarified and purified. Initially, the effluents enter the collection chamber, where they settle, so that all the solid particles settle. Then they move to the bacterial filtration compartment, where special microorganisms living on special brushes remove most of the contaminants from there. Not all products are equipped with an additional settling tank, in it the effluents are once again sedimented so that all remaining contaminants settle to the bottom in the form of sludge. All elements are connected to each other using special overflow pipes.
On the site, the design will not take up too much free space, an empty septic tank weighs about 80 kg, so it can be installed manually. It is well suited not only for a country house, but also for a separate bathhouse. The design is made of high quality plastic, and the wall thickness is 20 mm. They are also equipped with stiffeners, so the design can easily withstand even very severe physical exertion. Installing the product is simple; it does not need additional maintenance.
Benefits:
- Not dependent on energy supply;
- It resists pressure and severe temperature extremes;
- Easy to operate;
- Durable model;
- The output is almost perfectly clean water.
Disadvantages:
- Manufacturers do not recommend installing the structure in areas close to the surface of the groundwater.
2. MICROBE 450
The company engaged in the production of these products has been on the market for more than 25 years. During this time, the manufacturer was able to establish itself as a reliable manufacturer of sewer equipment. Today, the company is one of the leaders in terms of producing such devices. This small-sized model is perfect for a summer cottage, where people live seasonally. Septic tank includes a plastic container, which is made on the basis of HDPE (low pressure plastic), which withstands the effects of moisture, low temperatures, pressure drops and other mechanical influences. Inside there is a receiving compartment, where waste water will flow, from it they pass into the second chamber, after passing through a special filter. A special ventilation outlet is also provided, through which gases resulting from the activity of filter bacteria will escape.
Thanks to this device, it is possible to provide a degree of water purification up to 85%, in order to increase this indicator, experts recommend installing an infiltrator, but it will have to be purchased separately, however, according to users, you can also assemble a drainage well with your own hands. Solid waste will accumulate at the bottom of the structure, so it will periodically need to be pumped out - once a year is enough. The manufacturer recommends using this design for a country house, since the model is capable of processing no more than 150-200 liters of effluent per day. The design weighs a little, you can deal with its installation alone. The total volume of the structure is 450 l with overall dimensions of 0.81x4.13 m, its weight is 35 kg. She is one of the cheapest on the market.
Benefits:
- Small overall dimensions, which can significantly save on installation;
- Easy to maintain, filters are changed very simply;
- Independent of electricity;
- Decent performance for its overall dimensions;
- High level of strength and durability of the product.
Disadvantages:
- Do not use too aggressive chemicals;
- Due to its light weight during the spring flood, it may surface - it is necessary to additionally fix it in the ground.
1. Rostok Mini
The most popular model in its price category. This design qualitatively cleans household wastewater.Like most similar models, the unit is arranged quite simply. It is a decent-sized tank, which is internally divided into two chambers. They are connected to each other using an overflow pipe, one of them has a special filter. Drains flow into the septic tank by gravity, without using a pump. The inlet nozzle is equipped with a damper that prevents the sediment accumulated at the bottom from rising. The first chamber is a sump and clarifier. Subsequently, wastewater passes through a strainer and sorption filters that trap large contaminants. The latter is made from a special material - zeolite, and its thickness is 20 cm. After passing through them, no more than 20% of pollution remains in water compared to the initial state. In this form, they can already go beyond the septic tank and undergo another post-treatment procedure. It can be a soil backfill or a special biological filter.
On sale you can find several types of such products that differ from each other in volume - from 1000 to 3000 liters. You should choose depending on the number of people living in the house. The diameter of the inlet and outlet is 110 mm, which is quite suitable for standard sewer pipes. The inlet is 80 cm away from the top and the outlet is 85 cm away. The model is easy to install, there is no need to seek help from specialists. Water should be pumped out as necessary - usually this is done once or twice a year. The device does not take up too much free space on the site.
Benefits:
- The body of the structure has no seams, which significantly extends its service life;
- There are stiffeners;
- Completely delays odors;
- Performance is small but stable;
- No maintenance required;
- Reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- For its value it does not.
The best fully autonomous designs
3. Uponor Sako
The manufacturer of this septic tank is a well-known Finnish company, which has long been engaged in the production of a variety of equipment for plumbing needs. It produces filtration products and even biological stations. This model does not need to be connected to electricity, from two to four sections can be inside, overflow openings are located in the middle. Most organic compounds entering this septic tank are decomposed by bacteria; if the particles are insoluble, they will be removed by pumping. In the second chamber, sedimentation of medium-sized particles occurs, the remains of fats float. The outlet from the septic tank is slightly lower compared to the inlet, the wastewater leaves the device through a tee, leaving the flow distribution well. At this stage, it will already be cleaned by 55-70%, but the unpleasant odor and turbidity will continue.
After exiting the well, water enters the perforated pipes, which should be located on the drainage of sand and gravel. It is necessary to place special microorganisms in them that will be engaged in the treatment of effluents. After this pipe, completely purified water either goes into the ground or enters a well equipped with a drainage pump. There are several design options - they differ from each other only in volume.
Benefits:
- High filtration efficiency;
- High-quality assembly of the case;
- For a long time does not need pumping.
Disadvantages:
- Rain or drainage can enter the system, which can significantly deteriorate the filtering functions.
2. Termite Profi 3.0
This is an original autonomous type sewer system, which is designed for the most effective wastewater treatment. The device is designed to be installed in areas remote from the central sewage system.The product absorbs solid particles in a short time, and water that has passed through the filters can be used for irrigation and other technical needs. This is a domestic product, during production and during operation, it fully complies with all existing sanitary-epidemiological and construction standards. The principle of operation of the unit is based on mechanical and biological filtration of wastewater. The septic tank itself includes two or three tanks. Water passing through them not only disinfects and gets rid of contaminants, but also lightens. When using this equipment, it is allowed to use even a washing machine without fear of harming the environment.
The main structural elements here are the storage chamber and the compartment where biological filtration takes place. In some models there is a secondary tank, where before leaving the water will again settle, purifying even more. As a result, pollution is removed from sewage by 90-95%. The design does not need frequent pumping - both the manufacturer and direct users recommend doing this once every two to three years. In the tank equipped with brushes, special anaerobic bacteria live, which need to be updated from time to time. Maintenance is quite simple, however, coupled with the observance of the operating rules, this allows not only to increase the service life of the product, but also to prevent the formation of a large amount of sediment and activated sludge.
Benefits:
- Reasonable cost;
- Long service life;
- The case is made of reliable materials, no seams;
- Easy to install and maintain.
Disadvantages:
- Deep cleaning technology is not provided;
- A filter for cleaning gases generated during the life of bacteria is also missing.
1. Triton-ED-3500 Horizontal
Septic tank belongs to the category of two-chamber products. It is used exclusively for wastewater treatment, after which they pass into the soil, a treatment well, or into an infiltrator. It is made of high-strength polyethylene, the outer case is equipped with stiffeners, it is molded itself, there are no seams. The equipment can be used in climatic zones where the average temperature in the winter months drops to -30 degrees. The average life is within 50 years. Depending on the need, the product can be used to create a drainage system in a small country house, where about 3-4 people live. Some people install it as a temporary solution in the process of building a house.
The unit operates on the principle of biological treatment with preliminary breakdown of water into light and heavy fractions. In the immediate vicinity of the septic tank, it will be necessary to install an infiltrator or drainage well. At the same time, the water is cleaned in it so well that it can be immediately sent to the soil, especially if it is characterized by high absorbent characteristics, for example, sandy soil. According to manufacturers, the design needs regular maintenance. In particular, once a year it must be completely pumped out, after which it is filled with clean water. If it is not planned to use the unit in the cold season, then a third of the contents should be removed from there. The kit includes an elongated neck, the diameter of which is 500 mm, so that the septic tank itself can be buried to a considerable depth.
Benefits:
- The device is easy to maintain;
- It is made from polymeric materials resistant to decay and stress;
- Long service life without the need for repairs.
Disadvantages:
- Horizontal installation will require great physical effort, and the design itself will occupy a decent amount of space.
The best septic tanks in need of power
3. Unilos Astra 8
The device was developed by the domestic company SBM-group, which is engaged in the manufacture of closed-type systems that independently process the wastewater received in them, and clean water and absolutely safe for the environment sludge are brought out. This model is one of the most popular among users. Its main advantage over analogues of foreign production is that it practically does not need human intervention during work. If you install this product correctly, then the owners will have to look there no more than two or three times a year, and then only to clean up the accumulated sludge. The case of the model is made of safe and environmentally friendly polypropylene, which perfectly tolerates the effects of chemical compounds and is not sensitive to soil pressure. The walls are welded according to the original technology, due to which an integral product with a high level of strength is formed. The wall thickness is significant - as much as 2 cm, so the foundation under the septic tank does not have to be concreted.
There are no mechanical units inside the septic tank, which also positively affects the strength of the equipment. In total there are four compartments that are connected to each other by airlifts - these are types of overflows, but sewage is sent there by air purging. In the first compartment, the waters are clarified and settled, a precipitate begins to form, bacteria live in the second, and there is no need to replenish their population. It uses modern technology of intermittent aeration, due to which the decomposition of nitrates occurs, if they are contained in the effluent. The remaining chambers are two more sumps, where the water is completely purified to its original state - the content of pollutants in them does not exceed 2-3% of the original amount.
Benefits:
- Convenient small-sized design;
- High performance;
- Long service life;
- Good quality cleaning.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Dependence on energy supply.
2. Eco-Grand 15 (Poplar)
This autonomous sewer, like most of the others included in our rating of the best septic tanks, does not have elements made of metal in its design. This approach allows to prevent the occurrence of oxidative processes, which greatly prolongs the life of the equipment. It includes several chambers - a primary settling tank, aeration tank, a secondary settling tank, as well as a settling tank designed to accumulate activated sludge. The key scheme of equipment operation is similar to those that were considered earlier. The design is characterized by decent overall dimensions, so it has the ability to process significant volumes of wastewater per day. Together with all the additional equipment, it weighs 380 kg, which greatly complicates its installation in a permanent place.
Volley discharge of wastewater entering the septic tank can reach a volume of 450 liters. The compartment where the controls are located is completely isolated from drains. It also houses a reliable and fairly powerful compressor, due to which sewage will be pumped from one chamber to another. All controls do not consume too much electricity - about 2.8 kW is consumed per day.
Benefits:
- Active filtration, all substances are processed very quickly;
- High performance allows you to use the design for large families;
- The working volume is 6 cubic meters.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive.
1. TOPAS 8
In the first place of our review of the best septic tanks of this year, we decided to put this rather productive model, which is capable of passing up to one and a half tons of sewage through itself during the day. This indicator allows you to use the design for installation near a large house, where up to 8 people live.The body of the structure is made of reliable plastic, inside it is divided into four cameras, each of which performs certain functions. Wastewater is moved between the chambers using airlifts that operate on the basis of a special compressor. The output is quite clean water - it is perfectly acceptable to use it for technical needs, including irrigation of crops or fruit trees. The maximum volume of salvo discharge in this design is 440 liters. Water is discharged by gravity, all electrical parts of this equipment consume up to one and a half kilowatts of electricity per day.
The mass of the product is quite large - as much as 350 kg. You can install the unit in almost any soil. There is one condition - groundwater should be as deep as possible, otherwise it will be quite problematic to divert processed and filtered water. On sale you can find equipment for such a case - they are equipped with a special drainage pump, with which they will go into an irrigation tank or even into an open reservoir, since the treated effluents are absolutely harmless to the environment. However, it should be borne in mind that the energy consumption of such a device will be significantly higher, since the pump is quite powerful.
Benefits:
- Users acquire this design quite often;
- Superior filtration efficiency;
- High-quality manufacturing case;
- Easy to use, does not require complicated maintenance.
Disadvantages:
- Not identified.
In conclusion, a useful video
Our review of the best septic tanks of the year has come to an end. For each model, we tried to collect the maximum information not only on the principle of operation and technological device, but also on-line maintenance. We hope that after reading this rating you were able to choose the optimal design for yourself, which will serve for a long time for cleaning and draining water. If you still have any questions, then ask them in the comments. We will promptly provide you with additional data so that you know exactly whether this model is suitable for you or whether it is better to find something else.