Both holding and septic tanks are important for managing wastewater, and they’re often confused. Get a quick breakdown of holding versus septic tanks below.
All About Holding Tanks
Holding tanks are watertight containers designed to store wastewater temporarily. Unlike septic tanks, holding tanks do not treat the wastewater; they only hold it until it can be pumped out and transported for treatment elsewhere. Holding tanks are used for areas with limited space or proximity to water bodies, where wastewater treatment is not feasible. Because these tanks don’t treat wastewater, they benefit from vent filters to control the odor of this stagnant liquid.
All About Septic Tanks
Septic tanks offer a more permanent solution for on-site wastewater treatment. These tanks are buried underground and are part of a small-scale sewage treatment system. They separate solids from liquids, allowing natural bacteria to break down the waste. This process results in a cleaner effluent, which leaches into the surrounding soil and undergoes further purification. Septic tanks are suited for long-term residential use in areas without access to municipal sewer services.
How Holding and Septic Tanks Are Similar
Both holding and septic tanks are integral for managing wastewater in locations lacking centralized treatment systems. They function as repositories for waste, helping prevent contamination of groundwater and ensuring environmental protection.
How Holding and Septic Tanks Differ
The primary difference between holding and septic tanks lies in their function. Holding tanks solely store wastewater and require frequent pumping and specialized service.
Septic tanks, on the other hand, provide on-site waste treatment and reduce the frequency of professional intervention through the natural biodegradation process.
Ultimately, both holding and septic tanks play crucial roles in more remote waste management systems. Though many people use the terms interchangeably, you now know better. Just remember this quick breakdown of holding tanks versus septic tanks.
