Simple septic systems consist of a tank, some pipe, and some gravel. These systems are common, but they don’t work well in all types of ground. Since most plumbers are not septic installers, I will not bore you will all of the sticky details for putting a pipe-and-gravel system into operation. However, I would like to give you a general overview of the system, so that you can talk intelligently with your customers.
Let’s talk about the basic components of a pipe-and-gravel septic system. Starting near the foundation of a building, there is a sewer. The sewer pipe should be made of solid pipe, not perforated pipe. I know this seems obvious, but I did find a house a few years ago where the person who installed the sewer used perforated drain-field pipe. It was quite a mess. Most jobs today involve the use of schedule-40 plastic pipe for the sewer. Cast-iron pipe can be used, but plastic is the most common and is certainly acceptable.
The sewer pipe runs to the septic tank. There are many types of materials that septic tanks can be made of, but most of tanks are constructed of concrete. It is possible to build a septic tank on site, but every contractor I’ve ever known has bought pre-cast tanks. An average size tank holds about 1,000 gallons. The connection between the sewer and the septic tank should be watertight.
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