How Much is a Septic Tank?
First of all, who really needs the installation of a septic tank?
The installation of a septic tank can be an extremely common task for people who live in rural areas because it can be extremely difficult to get access to the mains sewage system. Septic tanks can remove any “gray waters” from the sink, shower and any other water source inside the house.
What factors can impact the overall cost of septic tank construction?
Many factors impact the cost of a septic tank depending on the site, type, materials and labor.
What is the specific cost of a septic tank?
The cost of material for the medium-sized tank is generally between £700 and £900. The average price for a larger tank is about £1100-£1300.
What sizes of septic tanks are available?
Septic tanks usually range between 4500 to 12500 liters. The sizes vary and can affect the overall cost of the project as larger tanks can require more time to construct.
The typical cost for having a septic tank installed by a professional ranges from £1500-£2000. This includes the materials, labor, and disposal of waste.
Septic Tank Prices
The table below outlines the cost you should expect to pay for various size septic tank systems:
| Septic Tank Size | Average Cost | Duration |
| Single-chamber 4500 liters | £1000-£1500 | 2-3 days |
| Single-chamber 8500 liters | £1700-£2200 | 2-4 days |
| Single-chamber 12500 liters | £2000-£2300 | 3-5 days |
| Multi-chamber 4500 liters | £1600-£2000 | 2-4 days |
| Multi-chamber 8500 liters | £2000-£2500 | 3-5 days |
| Multi-chamber 12500 liters | £3000-£3500 | 5-7 days |
What are the Supply Costs of Fitting a Septic Tank?
The materials used to build your toilet is an important component in the overall price of building the system of septic tanks. The higher the grade of the materials utilized the longer you can anticipate your septic tank’s lifespan to be. But, better-quality materials also cost more.
Septic tanks that are budget-friendly are generally constructed of concrete while premium tanks are generally made of fiberglass components. The decision to choose to purchase one-chamber tanks and a multi-chamber tank could impact the cost of supply and.
One typical, single-chamber tank is approximately £600-£800, while a multi-chamber tank is typically between £1000 and £1600 on average.
The table below provides cost you could anticipate for different kinds of septic tanks:
| Septic Tank Material | Average Cost Per 1000 Gallon Tank |
| Concrete | £600-£1000 |
| Plastic | £700-£1200 |
| Fiberglass | £1000-£1300 |
What are the Additional Costs of Septic Tank Installation?
There is a chance that you will need to think about other costs if you have a septic tank near your house. It is also possible to consider the costs to maintain the tank. While it requires only minimal maintenance, it’s an additional expense that has to be weighed in.
The most recommended maintenance for a septic tank includes the annual pressure washing to ensure it is in top state. A professional pressure washing on a septic tank can cost approximately £100-£200.
Your septic tank might be susceptible to weeds due to its surroundings. If that’s the case, you might require spraying weed killer on your tank. It is recommended to perform this every two years. You can buy a huge tub of weedkiller at around £30-£60.
The drainage system is now an integral part of construction regulations, which means it is possible to install a soakaway septic tank system. It is typically priced between £500-£800 and should be replaced every 10 years, based on the condition of the tank.
Tradesmen Costs for Fitting a Septic Tank
The labor cost for installing a septic tank is typically between £1200-£1800 for an easy task. If the area is difficult to access, or any issues occur during installation, anticipate that the cost will increase and you need to budget for a large amount of labor costs.
It is possible to cut the labor costs down by doing certain or all excavating yourself. However, you’ll likely require hiring the services of a digger for this portion of the work yourself.
A typical Septic tank expert is charged between £150 and £250 per day. For this kind of work however, it is common to have several contractors working as an organization, and cost of labor will be factored into the total cost of the task.
Residents of the London region can expect to be charged more for labour than those elsewhere in northern North or other regions in the UK.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Septic Tank?
The time needed to set up the septic tank may differ. A few factors that could impact the time required to construct include the dimensions of the tank, the material used, and the size of the excavation. Accessibility may also influence how long it takes.
The typical installation of a septic tank typically requires three days to complete.
Choosing a Septic Tank
There are a variety of types of septic tanks and they’re typically composed of a variety of substances. They are typically made of brick, concrete or fiberglass.
The most commonly used kind of septic tank found in the UK is the onion-shaped tank. Here is a brief list of the different septic tanks along with the specifics of each one:
Brick and Concrete Septic Tank
The majority of older septic tanks were constructed of brick, stone or concrete. These tanks typically have two chambers that are next to each other, and a pipe that is used to supply air for the tank. They are still seen in many locations but they aren’t commonplace within the UK.
Onion-Shape and Torpedo Tank
An onion-shaped fiberglass septic tank the most commonly used type of tank used throughout the UK. There is also the “torpedo” tank. It is a cylindrical tank. Both types of tanks are buried in the ground like brick tanks, which are more common than concrete tanks.
Over-Ground Septic Tank
Another kind that septic tanks are those which sit higher than the ground. The septic tanks above ground are generally designed as temporary.
In contrast to other types of septic tanks, these do not require planning permission to be put in place.
How Much Does It Cost to Empty a Septic Tank?
A typical contractor can charge between £150 and £250 for a professional cleaning and emptying the Septic tank. The cost of the service may depend on a variety of factors, including dimensions of tank size, accessibility, as well as the amount of time required to finish the task.
Engaging a professional to perform the emptying of your septic tank is the most effective way to maintain it and ensure it is in good shape.
The contractor will come to your home and evaluate the size of the task and install a special liner into your tank to flush out all the garbage that has built up.
After the tank has been completely empty, the tradesperson will wash the chamber to eliminate any solids that may remain within the chamber.
It is also inspected for cracks or damage. Repair work required on the chamber must be done after that tank is cleaned.
FAQs
Q: How does a septic tank work?
A: A septic tank treats domestic wastewater and sewage by allowing bacteria to naturally break down any potentially harmful substances.
The solids will sink to the bottom of the tank, meaning the settled liquid on top contains a very low level of contamination. This can safely be drained away into a soakaway and the ground.
Q: How often does a septic tank need to be emptied?
A: As a general rule of thumb, your septic tank should only need to be emptied every 3-5 years.
Q: Why does my septic tank need to be emptied?
A: Some of the solids collected at the bottom of the septic tank will be digested by bacteria and disappear.
However, the remaining sludge will build up over time and will need to be removed. Emptying a septic tank is the best method of septic tank maintenance.
Q: Why does my septic tank have scum on top?
A: The scum layer on the top consists of fat, oil, and grease. This is a result of normal domestic activities such as cooking and washing up.
Q: What should I avoid pouring down my drains if I have a septic tank?
A: You should avoid pouring bleach down the sink or toilet if you have a septic tank. You should also limit the amount of fat that you dispose of down the drain.
Some other things that may have a negative impact on the bacteria in your septic tank include animal litter, coffee grounds, cigarette ends, sanitary items, greases and fats, paints, detergents, paper towels, wet wipes and pesticides.
