Knowledge
Revolutionize Your Waste Disposal: How To Make A Septic Tank With 55 Gallon Drums!
What To Know
- Building a septic tank can be a daunting task, but with the right materials and instructions, it can be a manageable DIY project.
- This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step process on how to make a septic tank using 55-gallon drums, ensuring a reliable and efficient wastewater disposal system for your home.
- Cut a 3-inch hole in the center of the bottom of the inlet tank.
Building a septic tank can be a daunting task, but with the right materials and instructions, it can be a manageable DIY project. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step process on how to make a septic tank using 55-gallon drums, ensuring a reliable and efficient wastewater disposal system for your home.
Materials Required
- 4 x 55-gallon plastic drums
- 3-inch PVC pipe
- 3-inch PVC T-fitting
- 3-inch PVC elbow
- 3-inch PVC end cap
- Silicone sealant
- Gravel
- Sand
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Shovel
- Drill
- Jigsaw
Step 1: Prepare the Drums
- Cut the top off of one drum using a jigsaw. This drum will serve as the inlet tank.
- Cut a 3-inch hole in the center of the bottom of the inlet tank.
Step 2: Connect the Drums
- Connect the inlet tank to the second drum (primary tank) using a 3-inch PVC pipe. Insert the pipe into the hole in the inlet tank and seal it with silicone sealant.
- Connect the primary tank to the third drum (secondary tank) using another 3-inch PVC pipe.
- Connect the secondary tank to the fourth drum (outlet tank) using a 3-inch PVC pipe.
Step 3: Create the Baffle
- Cut a 3-inch PVC T-fitting in half.
- Insert one half of the T-fitting into the inlet tank, facing the primary tank.
- Seal the T-fitting to the inlet tank with silicone sealant.
Step 4: Add the Elbow and End Cap
- Insert a 3-inch PVC elbow into the T-fitting, facing down.
- Insert a 3-inch PVC end cap onto the end of the elbow.
Step 5: Dig the Trench
- Dig a trench that is 6 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 4 feet deep.
- The trench should be level and have a slight slope towards the outlet tank.
Step 6: Place the Drums in the Trench
- Place the drums in the trench in the following order: inlet tank, primary tank, secondary tank, outlet tank.
- Level the drums using a level.
Step 7: Fill the Trench
- Fill the trench around the drums with gravel, leaving about 6 inches of space at the top.
- Fill the remaining space with sand.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions
- Slow drainage: Check for blockages in the pipes or baffles.
- Bad odors: Add bacteria to the septic tank or check for leaks.
- Overflowing: The septic tank may be too small or in need of pumping.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the purpose of the baffle?
A: The baffle prevents solids from entering the secondary tank, allowing only liquids to flow through.
Q: How often should I pump the septic tank?
A: The frequency depends on the size of the tank and usage. Generally, it should be pumped every 3-5 years.
Q: Can I use metal drums instead of plastic drums?
A: No, metal drums can rust and contaminate the soil.