Holding Tank Information Page

What is a holding tank? A holding tank is a watertight tank used to catch and contain wastewater from a home or business. They are normally used in places where town sewer is not available and which are also poorly suited for septic systems. All wastewater generated by the home or business must be contained in the holding tank, until it can be removed for treatment and disposal.  One of the main drawbacks to holding tanks is that they require frequent pumping. For example, if a tank is 1500 gallons and accomodates 2-3 people (with average water use of 50 gallons per day each), the tank would require weekly pumping. Frequent pumpings are expensive, particularly in remote areas where there are long hauling distances. Costs typically begin at $75 and charges of over $300 are not uncommon. Water conservation measures, even rather expensive low water use systems, can quickly pay for themselves.  To prevent holding tank overflow or backup, it should be equipped with a visual and audio alarm that activates when it is 75% full. The tank should be located near a driveway, to provide easy access for a septic truck to come in and pump it out. For safety reasons, it should have a very heavy lid or locked cover to prevent access by children.  If a holding tank is used in wet areas with a high water table, the empty tank could float and lift out of the ground or at least shift, breaking the sewer pipe. Steps must be taken to drain the tank area, anchor the tank or pump only a portion of the liquid from the tank to prevent flotation.  As you may know from researching this topic, failing septic systems are a major financial and environmental problem in this country. Expensive septic repairs can often run from $5,000 to $20,000 or more and a large number of systems are failing throughout the country. For news stories related to failing septic systems and tightening regulations you can go to: http://www.laundry-alternative.com/Septic_Systems/failingseptic.htm You also can't sell your home if it has a failing system. For more information on how to properly maintain your septic system, go to: http://www.laundry-alternative.com/septic_system_maintenance.htm